Demaogong Crystal Cake (Shuijingbing) (德懋恭水晶饼)

Why it is worth considering

Shuijingbing (水晶饼, 'crystal cake') is Xi'an's signature pastry — a flaky wheat cake with a translucent, glistening filling. The Demaogong (德懋恭) brand has made it for a century, and its making technique is recognized as intangible cultural heritage. The brand now even has a store in Xi'an Xianyang International Airport's T5 terminal, which tells you how central it is to the city's food identity.

For visitors, a sealed gift box of crystal cakes is the edible souvenir that locals actually buy for each other — especially around festivals. Rich, flaky, and unmistakably Xi'an.

Before you buy, check

• Look for the Demaogong (德懋恭) brand — the century-old name behind the authentic pastry; many imitations exist.
• Check the production date — pastries are best fresh; sealed gift boxes keep longer than loose pieces.
• Choose sealed gift boxes for travel; they protect the pastries and look presentable as gifts.
• Try one first if the shop offers samples — fillings range from classic sweet to modern flavors like persimmon.

Good to know

• We have not verified current shelf prices — confirm at the counter before paying.
• Check the shelf life on the box; pastries are best eaten fresh and may not keep for long trips.
• Sealed boxes travel well in checked baggage; keep away from heat.