Half Moon Cake – Sweet Success Infused with Simplicity
Making delicious Half Moon Cakes is quite simple, and the resulting treats are sure to be a hit with the whole family. A classic pastry with a long legacy, the half moon cake is a refined dessert option that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a swanky soiree, consider making a few half moon cakes as a stellar addition to the meal.
History of the Half Moon Cake
Half Moon Cakes, also called Mooncakes, are believed to have originated in China during the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644 AD). It is thought that these cakes were primarily used to celebrate the autumnal harvest moon festival and often contained the year and location of the festival on the surface of the cake. Today, these cakes are still a popular treat in China and are often filled with lotus paste, salted duck egg yolks, dates, or walnuts, among other fillings. The edges of the cakes are typically decorated with a star or flower pattern, adding to its whimsical charm.
Try Your Hand at Making Half Moon Cakes
Making a few half moon cakes is a great way to try your hand at baking while still achieving an impressive outcome. Crafting delicious treats is sure to put a delicious smile on the faces of your friends and family members. Before you begin, make sure to gather these ingredients and supplies:
- 7 to 8 ounces of lotus paste or other filling
- 1 biscuit dough, or your favorite cookie or shortbread dough recipe
- Round cookie cutter or the mouth of a glass
- Sesame Oil for garnish
- Bowl and wooden spoon
- Rolling pin
Step by Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Prepare the lotus paste or other filling according to the instructions. Then set aside to cool.
3. Roll the biscuit dough on a floured surface until it is around ⅛-1/4” thick.
4. Use the cookie cutter to cut rounds out of the dough. Then repeat for the remainder of the dough.
5. Place a spoonful of the filling on each round of dough.
6. Fold the rounds in half and pinch the edges to seal.
7. Use the tines of a fork to create a star or flower pattern on the edges of each cake.
8. Brush each cake with sesame oil for a shiny finish.
9. Place cakes on a silpat-lined baking tray and bake for 15 to 18 minutes.
10. Remove the finished cakes from the oven and allow to cool before serving.
Conclusion
Making a few half moon cakes is an easy way to put an impressive but still relatively simple dessert on the table. With just a few ingredients, some precision and maybe a tiny bit of patience, you could find yourself enjoying a delicious treat that has a long and interesting history. So why not try your hand at baking up a few half moon cakes?
