Curaçao-Inspired Mooncake

Ingredients

In this Curaçao-inspired version of the mooncake, the traditional lotus seed paste filling is enhanced with the addition of tropical fruits like pineapple and passion fruit. The outer crust is infused with Curaçao's blue liqueur, giving it a unique color and a hint of citrus flavor. These adaptations bring a refreshing twist to the classic Chinese mooncake, infusing it with the vibrant and tropical essence of Curaçao cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Mooncake, so you can check it out.

• 300g (10.5 oz) lotus seed paste 300g (10.5 oz) lotus seed paste
• 50g (1.8 oz) pineapple, finely chopped 50g (1.8 oz) pineapple, finely chopped
• 50g (1.8 oz) passion fruit pulp 50g (1.8 oz) passion fruit pulp
• 4 salted egg yolks 4 salted egg yolks
• 100g (3.5 oz) all-purpose flour 100g (3.5 oz) all-purpose flour
• 50g (1.8 oz) butter, chilled and cubed 50g (1.8 oz) butter, chilled and cubed
• 50g (1.8 oz) powdered sugar 50g (1.8 oz) powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon Curaçao blue liqueur 1 tablespoon Curaçao blue liqueur
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 48g, 20g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the lotus seed paste, chopped pineapple, and passion fruit pulp. Mix well until evenly incorporated. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Insert a salted egg yolk into the center of each ball and reshape into a smooth ball.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, chilled butter, powdered sugar, and Curaçao blue liqueur. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
3. 3.
   Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a circle and wrap each lotus seed paste ball with the dough, ensuring it is completely sealed. Lightly dust a mooncake mold with flour and press the filled dough into the mold. Tap the mold gently to release the mooncake.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the mooncakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the mooncakes with the beaten egg wash.
5. 5.
   Bake the mooncakes for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lotus seed paste — Ensure the lotus seed paste is smooth and free from lumps before using it as a filling.
• Pineapple — Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor. Ensure it is finely chopped to blend well with the other ingredients.
• Passion fruit pulp — Strain the passion fruit pulp to remove any seeds before adding it to the filling mixture.
• Salted egg yolks — Boil the salted egg yolks for 5 minutes before using them in the mooncake filling to ensure they are fully cooked.
• Curaçao blue liqueur — Use a high-quality Curaçao blue liqueur to infuse the mooncake crust with its distinct flavor and vibrant blue color.

Tips & Tricks

• If you don't have a mooncake mold, you can shape the mooncakes by hand or use a cookie cutter to create decorative shapes.
• For a stronger Curaçao flavor, you can add a few drops of Curaçao blue liqueur to the filling mixture.
• To achieve a glossy finish on the mooncakes, brush them with a second layer of egg wash before baking.
• Allow the mooncakes to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
• Serve the mooncakes at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Curaçao-Inspired Mooncakes as a delightful dessert during festive occasions or as a special treat to enjoy with family and friends. Pair them with a cup of hot tea or a refreshing tropical fruit juice to complement the flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the mooncakes on a decorative platter, showcasing their vibrant blue color and intricate patterns. Garnish with fresh pineapple slices and passion fruit halves to enhance the tropical theme.