Chinese New Year Moon Cakes: 7 Joyful Steps to Make Them

Name: Chinese New Year Moon Cakes: 7 Joyful Steps to Make Them
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 200g all-purpose flour; 100g golden syrup; 50g lard or vegetable oil; 1/4 tsp alkaline water; 300g red bean paste; 100g salted egg yolks; Sesame seeds for topping

novembre 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Ah, *Chinese New Year moon cakes*! These delightful pastries hold such a special place in my heart and in our celebrations. Every year, as the festival approaches, I can practically smell the sweet aroma of freshly baked moon cakes wafting through the kitchen. It reminds me of the evenings spent with family, gathering around the table, sharing stories, and savoring these traditional treats. The rich, buttery crust encasing sweet red bean paste and salted egg yolks is just heavenly! It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories we create while making and enjoying them together. Trust me, once you dive into making your own *Chinese New Year moon cakes*, you’ll feel the joy and warmth of the holiday spirit wrap around you like a cozy blanket!

Ingredients List

To make the most scrumptious *Chinese New Year moon cakes*, you’ll need some simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

200g all-purpose flour: This forms the base of our delightful pastry, giving it that perfect soft texture.
100g golden syrup: This sweet syrup adds a beautiful flavor and moisture to the dough. It’s what makes the crust so irresistible!
50g lard or vegetable oil: You can use lard for a richer flavor, but vegetable oil is a great substitute if you prefer a lighter option.
1/4 tsp alkaline water: This ingredient is key for achieving that lovely golden color and the right texture in the crust.
300g red bean paste: This sweet filling is a classic for moon cakes, and it’s perfectly smooth and delicious!
100g salted egg yolks: These add a savory contrast to the sweetness of the red bean paste, making every bite a delightful surprise.
Sesame seeds for topping: These give a beautiful finish and a nutty flavor that complements the moon cakes perfectly.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating these mouthwatering treats! Don’t worry about the measurements too much; just make sure to have everything ready before you dive into the fun of making your moon cakes!

How to Prepare Chinese New Year Moon Cakes

Alright, let’s get into the fun part of making *Chinese New Year moon cakes*! This process is so satisfying, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how easy it is when you follow these steps.

Preheat the Oven

First things first, we need to preheat that oven! Set it to 180°C (350°F). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your moon cakes bake evenly and get that lovely golden color. So, don’t skip this step—your future moon cakes will thank you!

Make the Dough

Now, let’s mix up our dough! In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, golden syrup, lard (or vegetable oil), and alkaline water. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until it forms a smooth and pliable dough. You’re looking for a texture that’s soft but not sticky—like a cozy little cloud! If it feels too dry, add a tiny splash of water; if it’s too sticky, just sprinkle in a bit more flour.

Prepare the Filling

Next, it’s time to prepare the filling! Take a portion of the red bean paste and flatten it out in your palm. Then, gently place a salted egg yolk in the center and wrap the red bean paste around it. Make sure to seal it well so that the yolk stays tucked inside. This wrapping technique is essential for that delightful surprise when you bite into the moon cake!

Shape the Moon Cakes

Once your filling is ready, let’s shape those moon cakes! Divide the dough into small balls—about the size of a golf ball. Flatten each ball into a disc, making sure it’s wide enough to encase your filling. Place the filled red bean paste ball in the center and carefully wrap the dough around it, pinching the seams to seal. Then, gently roll it into a round shape. This step is where you’ll find your rhythm—practice makes perfect!

Bake the Moon Cakes

Finally, let’s bake these beauties! Place the shaped moon cakes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with an egg wash for that gorgeous golden finish and sprinkle some sesame seeds on top. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when your kitchen is filled with a heavenly aroma, and the tops look beautifully bronzed. Let them cool for a bit before serving, and get ready to impress everyone with your homemade *Chinese New Year moon cakes*!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re excited to make your *Chinese New Year moon cakes*, let me share some of my top tips to ensure they turn out absolutely perfect!

Handle the Dough Gently: When mixing and shaping your dough, be gentle! Overworking it can make your moon cakes tough instead of tender. Just mix until combined and stop.
Chill if Necessary: If your dough feels too soft to handle, don’t hesitate to pop it in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This helps firm it up, making it easier to shape.
Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your moon cakes as they bake. You want them golden brown, but not too dark. The aroma will guide you—trust your nose!
Cool Before Storing: Let your moon cakes cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This prevents moisture from building up in your container, which can make them soggy.
Storage Tip: Store your moon cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you can resist, they actually taste better a day or two after baking as the flavors meld!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating moon cakes that are not only beautiful but also delicious. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of our delightful *Chinese New Year moon cakes*! While they’re a treat that’s meant to be enjoyed, it’s good to know what’s in them. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for one moon cake:

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 150mg
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keep in mind, these values are an estimate and can vary based on exact ingredients used and portion sizes. But oh, how the joy of making and sharing these treats far outweighs the numbers! Enjoy every bite, and remember, it’s all about balance and the love you put into your baking!

FAQ Section

Can I use different fillings?

Absolutely! While red bean paste and salted egg yolks are traditional favorites, you can get creative with your fillings. Try using lotus seed paste for a different sweetness, or even black sesame paste for a nutty twist. For a fun variation, mix in some chopped nuts or dried fruits to add texture and flavor. The sky’s the limit—experiment and find your favorite filling!

How do I store moon cakes?

Storing your *Chinese New Year moon cakes* properly is key to keeping them fresh. Once they’ve cooled completely, place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. You can keep them at room temperature for about a week. Just remember, they taste even better after a day or two as the flavors develop, so don’t be afraid to dig in!

Can I freeze moon cakes?

Yes, you can definitely freeze moon cakes! Just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat—just let them come to room temperature, and they’ll be as delightful as when they were freshly baked!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, making *Chinese New Year moon cakes* is an experience you won’t want to miss! First off, the preparation is surprisingly quick and straightforward. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can whip up these delicious treats that are steeped in tradition. It’s a fantastic way to bring a slice of culture into your home without spending hours in the kitchen.

But what really makes this recipe special is the flavor! Each bite of these moon cakes is filled with that classic, nostalgic taste that takes me back to family gatherings and festive celebrations. The combination of sweet red bean paste and the savory salted egg yolk creates a delightful balance that keeps you coming back for more.

And let’s not forget the joy of sharing! There’s something so heartwarming about gathering around the table with loved ones, enjoying these treats together, and relishing the stories that come with them. You’ll find that making these moon cakes isn’t just about the food; it’s about creating beautiful memories with your family. Trust me, once you dive into this recipe, you’ll find yourself cherishing not just the moon cakes, but the moments you share while making and enjoying them together!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying *Chinese New Year moon cakes*, pairing them with the right accompaniments can truly elevate the experience! One of my all-time favorite pairings is a warm cup of fragrant tea. A nice oolong or jasmine tea complements the sweetness of the moon cakes perfectly, providing a refreshing contrast that balances the flavors beautifully. The warmth of the tea also brings out the rich, buttery notes of the pastries.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider serving the moon cakes with some fresh fruit. Slices of juicy mandarin oranges or crisp apples add a lovely, bright touch that cuts through the richness of the moon cakes. Plus, they’re a festive nod to the tradition of sharing fruit during celebrations.

For a more decadent treat, why not whip up some creamy coconut milk to drizzle over your moon cakes? This tropical addition adds a lusciousness that pairs so well with the sweet red bean paste. You could even sprinkle a bit of toasted coconut flakes on top for that extra flair!

No matter how you choose to serve them, the key is to create a warm and inviting atmosphere where everyone can gather, share stories, and indulge in these delightful treats together. Trust me, it’s all about the joy of connection and celebration! Enjoy your moon cakes and the wonderful company that comes with them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store those delicious *Chinese New Year moon cakes* so they stay fresh and tasty for as long as possible! Once you’ve baked and cooled your moon cakes, place them in an airtight container. This is super important because it keeps them from drying out and losing that lovely texture. You can store them at room temperature for up to a week, and trust me, they often taste even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together!

If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a fantastic option! Just wrap each moon cake individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat—just let them come to room temperature, and you’ll be back in moon cake heaven!

And here’s a little tip: If you find that your moon cakes have lost some of their softness after freezing, you can gently warm them in the oven at a low temperature (about 150°C or 300°F) for just a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked feel. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Enjoy every bite and the wonderful memories they bring!

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