Snow Skin Mooncake – A no bake mooncake with a chewy outer layer

X ManOctober 10, 2024013 views

Introduction

Snow Skin Mooncake, a delightful treat often enjoyed during the Mid-Autumn Festival, is a symbol of reunion and familial love in many Asian cultures. The delicate, chewy outer layer wraps around a variety of sweet fillings, making it a beloved dessert that is often enjoyed with fragrant tea. Typically priced between $4-$8 each at authentic Asian bakeries, its unique texture and presentation have made it a favorite across various markets and restaurants. Popular spots include Mei Heong Yuen Dessert in Hong Kong and a myriad of bakery stalls in bustling Chinatown districts. For health-conscious enthusiasts, the Keto version allows you to savor this traditional delicacy without the excess carbs, ensuring every bite is guilt-free yet indulgent. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Snow Skin Mooncake and explore both its traditional and Keto recipes!

Origin and Inspiration

The Snow Skin Mooncake, or "冰皮月饼" in Mandarin, hails from the southern regions of China, notably Hong Kong. Traditionally, mooncakes are baked and eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but the snow skin variant emerged in the late 20th century when chefs sought a fresh twist to this time-honored treat. The alluring combination of a soft, chewy exterior and a sweet, ideally salted filling embodies the spirit of lunar celebrations shared among families and friends.

Interestingly, this concept of a layered dessert can be found across cultures—like the Japanese mochi or the Middle Eastern halva—but the Snow Skin Mooncake holds its unique charm with its variety of fillings, such as red bean and lotus seed paste.

The Keto adaptation of Snow Skin Mooncake embraces low-carb ingredients while preserving that signature chewy texture. Erythritol and almond flour step in as substitutes, allowing you to savor the mouthfeel of the original version without the spike in blood sugar. It’s an exciting opportunity to enjoy a traditional delicacy while adhering to modern dietary preferences!

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

Traditional Version

Keto Version

Ingredients (2 Servings)

Shared Ingredients:

1 cup glutinous rice flour

3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)

1/4 cup powdered erythritol (for Keto version) or powdered sugar (for Traditional version)

Cornstarch (for dusting and texture)

Traditional Version:

1/2 cup lotus seed paste or red bean paste

1/4 cup unsweetened coconut cream

Keto Version:

1/2 cup Keto-friendly lotus seed paste or homemade sweetened almond paste

1/4 cup coconut cream or almond milk (for added moisture)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

Traditional Version:

In a mixing bowl, blend glutinous rice flour, powdered sugar, and water until you achieve a smooth consistency, much like pancake batter. The sweet aroma of sugar envelops you, signaling that deliciousness is on the way!

Keto Version:

Follow the same steps, replacing powdered sugar with erythritol. Adapt the consistency as needed, letting your intuition guide you as you find that perfect texture.

2. Steam the Dough:

Pour the mixture into a heatproof dish, smoothing it out evenly. Steam in a pot over simmering water for about 20-25 minutes. The waft of steaming rice flour will tantalize your senses as it transforms into a delicate dough.

3. Shape the Mooncakes:

Once the dough cools, dust your hands with cornstarch. Cut the steamed dough into equal portions. Press a piece of dough flat, add a spoonful of filling to the center, and enclose it by pinching the edges together. Shape it into a perfect ball, like a little orb of joy ready to shine!

4. Final Assembly:

Use a mooncake mold to compress the shaped dough into intricate designs. Dust the mold with cornstarch to avoid sticking. Carefully unmold and place the finished mooncake on a plate, enhancing its aesthetics before serving.

5. Chill and Serve:

Let the assembled mooncakes rest in the refrigerator for at least two hours to achieve that delightful chewiness. Serve chilled, and feel the cool sweetness hit your palate first!

What Does It Pair Well With?

Traditional Pairings:

Chrysanthemum Tea: The floral aroma of this tea complements the sweetness of the mooncake, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Fresh Fruits: Slices of honeydew or lychee add a refreshing note to balance the rich sweet filling.

Keto-Friendly Pairings:

Herbal Infusion: Try pairing with a warming ginger tea that cuts through the sweetness of the mooncake.

Nuts or Cheese: Lightly salted almonds or a mild cheese can contrast nicely with the sweet and chewy dessert.

What is the Shelf Life?

Snow Skin Mooncakes are best consumed within 3-5 days when stored correctly in the refrigerator. To maintain their freshness, keep them in an airtight container.

Freezing: The mooncakes can be frozen for up to a month. Just ensure they are individually wrapped to prevent frost from forming. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for a revitalizing treat.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Oven Method: If you want a baked twist, shape the dough as usual and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes for a firmer version.

Microwave Method: For those short on time, microwave the dough in 30-second intervals, stirring after each burst until desired consistency is reached.

Conclusion

Whether you opt for the traditional Snow Skin Mooncake or the innovative Keto version, this exquisite dessert offers a beautiful blend of flavors and textures, uniting cultures and generations. From its chewy, delicate outer layer to its sweet filling, every bite tells a story of tradition and celebration. Embrace the flexibility of this recipe, and enjoy the magic of mooncakes as part of your festive gatherings or as a delightful snack any day of the year!