Demao Gong
Time-Honored BrandDemao Gong · Shaanxi · Founded
Demao Gong, a century-old pastry brand from Xi'an, Shaanxi, is renowned for its crystal cakes, carrying the culinary memories of the Guanzhong region.
Brand Story
Founded in the late Qing Dynasty, Demao Gong's exact founding year is unverified, but it is said to have originated from a small pastry shop in Xi'an. During the late Qing and early Republic period, a shopkeeper surnamed Li (full name unknown) refined traditional flaky pastry techniques, creating the crystal cake with a crisp crust and soft, translucent filling. Its unique texture quickly gained popularity. In the Republican era, Demao Gong became a favored gift among Xi'an's elite, with its shop located near the Bell Tower (current site unverified). The name 'Demao Gong' reflects the merchant's virtues: 'De' (virtue) as the foundation of business, 'Mao' (prosperity) for flourishing, and 'Gong' (respect) for hospitality, embodying the integrity and elegance of Shaanxi merchants. After the founding of New China, Demao Gong underwent public-private partnership, preserving its craft. In 2006, its crystal cake-making technique was listed as a Shaanxi provincial intangible cultural heritage, making it a living fossil of Guanzhong food culture. Although not officially recognized as a 'China Time-honored Brand,' it enjoys deep folk acclaim and is synonymous with 'pastry master' in Xi'an.
Signature Products
Crisp crust, soft filling, translucent like crystal, sweet but not greasy; the signature product of Demao Gong. (20-50 RMB/box)
Fine and dense, refreshing and cooling, traditionally handmade, melts in the mouth. (15-30 RMB/box)
Crispy and sweet, with plump walnut kernels and rich aroma; a top choice for Shaanxi tea snacks. (18-35 RMB/box)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Shaanxi（陕西）
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Cultural Note
The craft of Demao Gong's crystal cake emphasizes 'crisp crust, soft filling, and distinct layers,' involving over ten steps such as kneading dough, making pastry, filling, and baking, all requiring the master's feel for heat. The filling uses sugar, red and green preserved fruits, walnuts, and rose jam, reflecting the local produce of the Guanzhong region. The brand carries the urban memory of Xi'an and is an indispensable symbol in festive customs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Demao Gong founded?
Demao Gong was founded in null, originating in Shaanxi, Shaanxi, primarily in the Food & Beverage field.
What is the signature product of Demao Gong?
Its signature product is Crystal Cake. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: