How to Make Hup Seng Ping Pong Crackers (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Hup Seng Ping Pong Crackers are a beloved Malaysian snack, often enjoyed during lunch or as a light treat with kopi-O (local black coffee). Originating from Malaysia's vibrant multicultural food scene, these crackers are known for their crisp texture and subtle buttery flavor. Malaysians across ethnic backgrounds savor Ping Pong Crackers with kaya (coconut jam), cheese, or simply on their own. These crackers are widely recognized for their nostalgic value, reminding many of family gatherings and teatime in local kopitiams. When made at home, they offer a healthier alternative to store-bought varieties, allowing you to control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary preservatives. The recipe here uses locally sourced ingredients, such as pandan and santan, to enhance flavor while maintaining authenticity. Their simple, vegetarian-friendly profile makes them suitable for a variety of diets and occasions, reflecting Malaysia’s rich tapestry of culinary traditions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour (tepung gandum)
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking powder (serbuk penaik)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt (garam)
- 2 tablespoons Sugar (gula pasir)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (unsalted, local dairy)
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil (minyak sayur)
- 4 tablespoons Water (air)
- 1/2 teaspoon Pandan extract (optional, for aroma)
- 2 tablespoons Santan (coconut milk) (optional, for richness)
- 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds (bijan, for topping)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Preheat oven to 180°C
Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2 · In a mixing bowl
In a mixing bowl, combine tepung gandum, baking powder, salt, and gula pasir.
Step 3 · Add butter and minyak sayur
Add butter and minyak sayur. Rub into dry ingredients until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
Step 4 · Mix in water
Mix in water, pandan extract, and santan (if used) to form a soft dough.
Step 5 · Roll dough thinly (3-4mm)
Roll dough thinly (3-4mm). Use a round cutter to shape crackers.
Step 6 · Arrange crackers on tray
Arrange crackers on tray. Prick with a fork and sprinkle bijan (sesame seeds) on top.
Step 7 · Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and crisp
Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and crisp. Allow to cool on wire rack.
Step 8 · Serve with kaya
Serve with kaya, cheese, or on their own for a traditional Malaysian lunch.
Why this recipe is healthy
Making Ping Pong Crackers at home lets you control the fat and sugar content, making them a healthier choice than store-bought snacks. Using santan and pandan gives natural flavor without relying on artificial additives. The crackers are baked, not fried, reducing overall calorie intake. Serving them with kaya or cheese allows for customization based on dietary needs, making them suitable for weight management and balanced lunches.
A note on tradition
Ping Pong Crackers are iconic in Malaysia, often found in local supermarkets and traditional kopitiams. They are enjoyed across all ethnic groups, reflecting the multicultural food heritage of the country. Traditionally eaten during lunch or as a snack for afternoon tea, these crackers evoke memories of family and festive gatherings. While not tied to any specific festival, they are a staple in Malaysian households and often served during social occasions.