Homemade lotus seed paste mooncakes

Mooncakes, also known as Yue Bing, Harvest Mooncakes, or Reunion Cakes, are traditional Chinese delicacies of the Han ethnic group. Worshiping the moon is an ancient custom in China, originally a form of worship toward the Moon Deity. Eating mooncakes and admiring the moon during the Mid-Autumn Festival are indispensable customs across different regions in China. This year, you can try celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival by making your own mooncakes!

Mooncakes are a well-known traditional Chinese snack, symbolizing family reunion during the Mid-Autumn Festival. The process of making mooncakes is not overly complicated, but there are some key techniques to keep in mind:

1.What is mooncake?

Mooncake is one of the traditional delicacies of the Han ethnic group in China, and it is also a traditional food for the Mid-Autumn Festival. It is mainly made from flour, eggs, sugar, food additives, various fillings, and flavorings. Mooncakes come in a wide variety of flavors and styles, each with its own unique characteristics, catering to the tastes and preferences of different groups of people.

2.Techniques for making mooncakes?

①Handling the dough: When making the dough, ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. The dough should not be too dry or too wet.

②Mold usage: Sprinkle a small amount of flour in the mold to prevent sticking, which helps the mooncakes release more easily. Apply even pressure when pressing the mold to ensure clear and defined shapes for the mooncakes.

③Baking tips: Preheat the oven to the appropriate temperature (usually between 160 to 200 degrees Celsius). Bake the mooncake dough initially at a lower temperature for a period of time to set the shape, then increase the temperature to continue baking until the desired color is achieved.

④Surface treatment: Mooncakes fresh out of the oven may be soft and prone to deformation. Allow them to cool completely; this allows the mooncakes to regain their oil content, resulting in a better texture.

3.How to maintain wooden molds?

①When cleaning, avoid using overly hard or rough brushes or cloths to prevent scratching the surface of the wooden molds.

②When storing wooden molds, it's important to prevent moisture. The best approach is to place a dehumidifier in the storage area or store the wooden molds in a dry and well-ventilated place.

③During use, it's important to promptly clean off any moisture from the molds to prevent it from accumulating inside, which could damage the molds over time.

4.How to store mooncakes?

①Storing mooncakes in the refrigerator: For most mooncakes, refrigeration is a common method of storage. You can place the mooncakes, along with their packaging, in the refrigerator's chilled compartment. Take them out about an hour before consuming to ensure the best flavor. However, be aware that refrigeration may cause the mooncakes to become firmer, affecting their texture.

②Seal and store: Place any leftover mooncakes in a sealed bag or container, ensuring it is completely airtight to prevent air and moisture from entering. This helps to avoid the mooncakes becoming hard or dry.

③Avoiding light and moisture: Direct sunlight and humid environments can cause mooncakes to mold and spoil. Therefore, it's crucial to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

There are many types of mooncakes, and today I will mainly introduce the method of making lotus seed paste mooncakes. Lotus seed paste mooncakes are not only sweet and smooth but also have the fragrance of lotus seeds, making them an irresistible delicacy!