Mooncakes, as a traditional delicacy, are especially favored during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and many people continue to savor them even after the festival, but they can also mark the beginning of weight gain at the end of the year. While enjoying mooncakes, it is particularly important to know how to properly handle and consume these delicious pastries.
Cracks in mooncakes can sometimes be troublesome. This may be due to the filling containing too much moisture, especially in those with moisture-rich fillings, which not only shortens the shelf life of the mooncake but can also cause the crust to crack. Additionally, the baking process is crucial; high-temperature, short-duration baking can enable the crust to quickly form a hard shell and reduce cracks; conversely, high-temperature, long-duration baking may cause the filling to expand and break the crust.
To avoid cracking, the following measures can be taken: ensure that the filling is thoroughly cooked and dried, and appropriately increase the fat content, as excessive moisture can lead to cracks; for the crust ingredients, a mix of 90% low-gluten flour and 10% high-gluten flour can be utilized; during baking, it is recommended to use a higher temperature and shorten the time to quickly form a sturdy crust and prevent cracks from forming.
Regarding storage, varieties that are prone to spoilage or cracking, like snow skin mooncakes and fresh meat mooncakes, should be placed in the refrigerator and wrapped with plastic wrap, adjusting the temperature to prevent excessive freezing.
When consuming mooncakes, pay attention to a few points: although the candied fruit in mooncakes is edible, these types of mooncakes tend to have higher pigment content and should not be consumed in large quantities; mooncakes are high in energy, and excessive consumption may lead to elevated blood sugar levels, so those with diabetes should be especially cautious about controlling their intake.
When choosing mooncakes, consider the style and filling; for example, snow skin mooncakes generally have lower fat and sugar content compared to Cantonese and Suzhou styles. Red bean and fruit-filled mooncakes are lighter, while five-nut, egg yolk, ice cream, and meat-filled mooncakes are higher in calories and should be consumed in moderation. Additionally, smaller-sized mooncakes are a better choice, allowing for a variety of flavors while controlling calorie intake. If too many are accidentally consumed, one can balance the overall daily calorie intake by reducing other meals. In terms of pairing, it is advisable to replace sugary drinks with unsweetened tea or plain water to promote a healthier diet.
