Shandong huagao, directly translated as Shandong "flower bun," is a beloved dish, of which the patterns and shapes vary widely, with some designs resembling flowers or animals, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. In Qufu, zaohuagao – the date flower bun – is made from red dates and dough and comes in various sizes. They are made with layers of dough and red dates.
This traditional Shandong delicacy not only represents the abundant ingredients and culinary traditions of Shandong but also reflects the unique culinary creativity of its locals and their reverence for traditional culture.