Mid-Autumn Festival is coming soon and we’re all geared up to share some mooncakes with our family and friends! So, which mooncakes are the yummiest and where can you get the most impressive mooncakes as gifts? We tried as many mooncakes as we could to give you the low-down on our top favourites of the year. But of course, remember to eat mooncakes in moderation…especially since they’re meant to be shared while celebrating!
Most fashionable (and practical) case – W Singapore’s Lunar Couture
W Singapore – Sentosa Cove has really matched fashion with food in their 2024 Lunar Couture Mooncakes! Love the stunning bags that come in stunning red and dark green with tropical leaf patterns that pay homage to the tropical paradise of Sentosa Island. Besides the main bag, it does come in another clear protective bag, so you’re really getting two bags! The bags are roomy and come with adjustable straps.
Besides the impressive and stylish bags, the mooncakes inside are just as important and W’s offerings this year are: Pure White Lotus Paste with Assorted Nuts, Green Tea with Goji Berry and Walnut as well as Caramel Paste with Yuzu Parmesan Cheese.
We shan’t cover the traditional white lotus paste mooncakes as they taste as they traditionally should. Let’s go on and review their not-so-traditional offerings:
Green Tea with Goji Berry and Walnut
The jasmine green tea used in the paste wasn’t overpowering but leant a slight fragrance to the mooncake. Couldn’t really taste the goji berries or walnut although you can see spots of both inside. It’s not too bad but wasn’t as memorable as we’d hope they would be.
Caramel Paste with Yuzu Parmesan Cheese
I know what you’re thinking: “Parmesan Cheese?”. So, is this mooncake sweet and salty? Kind of. In the same way salted caramel is both sweet with a touch of saltiness. The parmesan cheese merely gave the mooncake that slight savoury aftertaste while the caramel paste was really yummy. I get that the yuzu is there to cut back on the richness of the paste but honestly, they could’ve done without it. Might even taste better!
How to order
If you’re looking to dazzle someone with a gift or simply seeking to treat yourself to something a little more extraordinary, then W Singapore’s Lunar Couture Mooncakes are for you!
Early-bird discounts:
18 July to 17 Sept: 25% off Amex Love Dining credit card holders
Pre-orders should be made 48 hours in advance via telephone (+65 6808 7268) or email ([email protected])
For more information, please visit https://wsingapore.oddle.me/en_SG/
Most innovative flavours – The Pine Garden
When you think of The Pine Garden, you would often think of cream sponge cakes with interesting flavours such as Lychee Martini and Baileys but yet at the same time, they’ve got the reputation of being traditional. But they do try to mix contemporary with traditional flavours to bring you something that is familiar but yet different at the same time.
This year, the bakers at The Pine Garden have introduced a selection of intriguing new fillings that are innovative and delicious. Want to know more? Read on for our review on some of their offerings.
TW Wendan Pomelo & Chrysanthemum
This new flavour marries the citrus notes of TW Wendan (文旦) pomelo with the delicate floral essence of Chrysanthemum encased in a golden baked skin pastry. I liked the floral notes of the chrysanthemum as it was not overpowering and the slight citrus flavour from the pomelo did make the mooncake less cloying. |
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Baked Skin Sakura Abi & Bacon with 1 Yolk
The flavour combination might seem a little odd but this is a MUST TRY! This is the more savoury mooncake but it does have a bit of sweetness from the paste and it tastes like haebi hiam minus the chilli. The team at The Pine Garden really nailed this one. You may feel a little undecided at first bite but once you start chewing, it grows on you and you will want to go for another piece. The husband is still raving about it and is talking about getting another whole mooncake! |
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Baked Skin Black Sesame Pumpkin
I think this flavour has become a classic for The Pine Garden and they can’t do wrong with it. Really for those who love their black sesame paste (like me!). Just note that because there are no preservatives, this particular flavour needs to be refrigerated as it is more moist compared to the other mooncakes. |
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Baked Skin Pandan Jade with Coconut Dodol
This is yet another flavour that is becoming a staple for The Pine Garden’s mooncake collection. It tastes like kaya with a dodol centre, which is a perfect pairing! |
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Dark Chocolate Coated Snow Skin Cocoa
If you love chocolate, you will lloooove this mooncake. It’s not just a chocolate flavoured snow skin but it is actually coated with dark chocolate! The chocolate paste inside is almost like a ganache but yet it has the texture of lotus paste. A definite hit with every one. |
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Snow Skin Yuzu Cream Cheese
This was the only disappointment in the whole collection for us. We didn’t get the cream cheese as it didn’t really pair well with the lotus paste that was infused with the zesty yuzu. |
Psst…The Pine Garden has also collaborated with White Rabbit for a series of Snowskin mooncakes. Read on for more details!
For the durian lovers
Charm the hearts of the young and old with Durian flavoured mooncakes that never go out of style! Bread Garden’s Signature Premium MSW Durian Snowskin Mooncake combines the finest ingredients with expert craftsmanship to deliver a luxurious treat. Encased in a silky, delicate snowskin, the mooncake offers intense bittersweet notes from the Mao Shan Wang (MSW) durian for a decadent flavour journey – definitely a must-try.
Golden Moments has also introduced a new Premium Durian Omakase Snowskin Mooncake Set. The set features 4 premium durian flavours such as Signature Black Gold Mao Shan Wang, Classic Golden Phoenix, Champion Breed Red Prawn and Classic DXO. It is a perfect gift to satisfy the cravings of all durian aficionados.
Durian lovers will also be thrilled with the selections at Duria SG. They sell an assortment of snowskin mooncakes, including the indulgent Musang King Durian Snowy Skin mooncake, and the decadent Blackthorn Musang mooncake, which will surely wow fans of the thorny fruit with its intense, luscious taste. The mooncakes are also packaged in sleek black tins adorned with vibrant graphics that reflect the rich and exotic flavours inside.
For the chocolate lovers – Janice Wong Singapore
Janice Wong’s Mooncake Collection 2024 features three types of all-time favourites: Signature Chocolate, Low-sugar Baked, and Snowskin – for a varied expression of mooncakes with artistic flourishes.
Signature Chocolate
As a confectionery brand synonymous with chocolates, it goes without saying that Janice Wong Signature Chocolate Mooncakes returns this year. Bringing back the favourites, this set of Chocolate Mooncakes (S$95 for 8 pieces) features flavours like Peanut Gingerflower, Salted Caramel Cashew, Vanilla Biscoff and an alcoholic flavour – Gula Lapis Whisky Old Fashioned. A wondrous array of colours with Janice Wong’s signature strokes, each piece is individually painted.
Low Sugar Baked Mooncakes
Changing up the traditional idea of baked mooncakes are four varieties of low-sugar Baked Mooncakes (S$95 for 8 pieces). Hinted by the colour of its crust are Kuromitsu Sea Salt that balances black sugar with a touch of saltiness, Kinako Macadamia for a warm and nutty bite, alongside Raspberry Almond with Azuki paste and Pistachio, containing pistachio bean paste.
Snowskin
Intended as a delicate contrast to indulgent chocolate and baked variants are the Snowskin Mooncakes (S$95 for 4 pieces). Crafted with fresh ingredients flown directly from Japan, each piece hides a truffle ball for a delightful surprise. Flavours include Sweet Potato Cashew, Hojicha Chestnut Coffee, Hinako Macadamia and Matcha Yuzu. Finished minimally with refined touches, Janice Wong’s snowskin mooncakes are best enjoyed over a spot of tea with friends or family.
This year’s collection is beautifully presented in a custom-designed limited edition handbag and a metallic tin, making it an ideal gift that is both stylish and reusable.
Janice Wong Pure Imagination’s Mooncake Collection 2024 is now live for pre-orders, with Early-bird specials at 10% off from 16 August – 30 August. For orders or enquiries, please visit https://janicewong.online/ or email [email protected].
Most adorable nostalgic mooncakes – White Rabbit
The OG White Rabbit Mooncake and Gift With Purchases – Tote Bag and Tumbler
enjoy the unique flavours of the official authentic White Rabbit mooncakes by Shanghai Guan Sheng Yuan Food, Ltd. (上海冠生园食品有限公司) exclusively imported into Singapore by authorised distributors Hao Productions Pte. Ltd. The famed OG White Rabbit mooncakes make its debut in Singapore for the first time! Each box of six mooncakes in four flavours retail at S$72 per box with special bundle promotions and gift with purchases available at different pop-ups.
From now until 17 September, these delectable lava mooncakes packaged in a sleek blue box, aptly featuring the iconic white rabbit are available at dedicated pop-ups at Takashimaya B2 Foodhall, Chinatown Point, Causeway Point, Jewel Changi Airport and other key locations across Singapore. Each box also contains an adorable story card detailing the legend of Chang’e and her pet rabbit, the Jade Rabbit (玉兔).
From left: White Rabbit Chocolate Liqueur Lava Mooncake, Longjing Tea Style Lava Mooncake, Black Truffle Custard Lava Mooncake
Contrary to expectations, the mooncakes do not feature the candy. Instead, the mooncakes offer a depth of flavour with a nuanced balance between sweet and savoury notes and are not cloyingly sweet. Each box features six mooncakes in four meticulously crafted flavours: Creamy Custard, Chocolate Liqueur, Longjing Tea, and Black Truffle.
Look out for bundle deals with exclusive gifts with purchases! Buy two boxes of Authentic White Rabbit Mooncakes at S$130 and receive a free official White Rabbit tote bag or buy three boxes at S$204 and receive a free official White Rabbit tumbler worth (S$39).*Deals may vary and terms and conditions apply.
White Rabbit x The Pine Garden Snowskin Mooncakes
Hao Food Singapore has collaborated with The Pine Garden to offer a range of locally crafted snowskin mooncakes. These feature beloved local flavours, providing a truly Singaporean twist on the classic treat.
These snowskin mooncakes come in four rich flavours with a local twist: Matcha Sakura Red Bean, Jade Pandan, Yam Ornee, and Mao Shan Wang Durian. The Matcha Sakura Red Bean mooncake incorporates the richest matcha, exquisitely mixed with red bean White Rabbit candy, while the Jade Pandan mooncake is crafted with the renowned Pine Garden pandan goodness and the medley of original White Rabbit candy. Plus, the Yam Ornee mooncake, infused with authentic Teochew yam paste and artfully infused White Rabbit candy, offers a perfect harmony of traditional and modern flavours. For durian lovers, the Mao Shan Wang Durian Lotus mooncake blends the rich, buttery flavour of premium durian with the classic White Rabbit candy, creating an unforgettable fusion of tastes. The White Rabbit X The Pine Garden snowskin mooncakes retail at at S$78 per box of 6.
Other notable mentions
In a conscious effort to reduce waste, The Westin Singapore launches a food-grade biodegradable lacquered bamboo mooncake box with a rubber bellyband, which can be repurposed as a lunchbox. Under ideal conditions, bamboo can grow up to one meters a day and its natural regenerating qualities makes it a sustainable option for product packaging. The mooncake lunchbox is wrap in an aesthetically pleasing tiffany blue silk cloth with white motifs, making it a perfect gift for family, friends, and business partners. The mooncakes are individually packed in a tiffany blue box.
Baked to perfection and only available in a box of four mixed flavours, this year’s mooncakes consists of the classic Low Sugar White Lotus Paste with Single Yolk, Sweet Potato with Taro Coconut, Matcha Red Bean with Rose, and Mixed Nuts with Nasi Lemak Sambal. All their mooncakes are halal-certified.
For orders and enquiries, visit The Westin Singapore’s mooncake e-shop or email [email protected].
Inspired by the Fullerton Building’s former identity as Singapore’s first General Post Office, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore has packaged their quintessential mooncake staples in this eye-catching rendition of the red pillar post box. With its coin-sized ‘mail’ slot, this gift box can be repurposed as a piggy bank. The Fullerton Hotel Singapore is also introducing two additions this year: the Premium Mixed Nuts Baked Mooncake, and the Assam Tea with Lemon, Mung Bean and Raisin Baked Mooncake.
Peach Garden Chinese Restaurant also unveils a delightful symphony of flavours with unique packaging to match. This year, they are introducing the Premium Mao Shan Wang Durian Snowskin Mooncake, a luxurious indulgence for durian enthusiasts, alongside the Red Bean Pandan Mooncake with Melon Seed, which was crafted with less sugar. Their mooncakes come in stunning, multi-purpose gift boxes: The Mini Moon Luggage Bag is perfect for the jetsetter in your life, while the Pearl-Quilted Shoulder Bag adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.
If you’re a fan of pineapple tarts, be sure to check out local brand Pineapple Tarts Singapore, which offers delectable pineapple shaped mooncakes, all packaged in adorable ways. Pineapple Tarts Singapore’s mooncakes blend time-honoured recipes with contemporary flavours such as Premium Japanese Yam Mochi Mooncake to Premium Japanese Uji Matcha Green Tea Lava Mooncake, creating a unique and delightful experience for all. You can take home your mooncakes in a cute mini luggage or a quirky pineapple handbag!
Mandarin Oriental, Singapore combines elegance with tradition with a beautiful keepsake box for its Snow Skin Cherry Garden Six Jewels, inspired by traditional Peranakan stained glass set in a rich shade of emerald. You can upcycle this box and repurpose it to house dainty accessories and trinkets. Featuring a colourful repertoire of snowskin gems that range from Mango Pomelo to Longjing tea, this set will captivate both the eye and the palate.
Established in 1968, Wang Lai Bakery has meticulously crafted each mooncake to balance tradition with innovation, resulting in an exquisite selection that appeals to both purists and adventurous palates. Tuck into flavours such as Premium Lava Golden Buttermilk Mooncake and Premium Lava Belgian Chocolate Mooncake!
Meanwhile, Taiwanese brand Sugar & Spice will also be bringing some of Taiwan’s most popular snacks and sweet treats to the fair. These include their Taro Mochi Pastry, which boasts a silky taro filling accompanied by their famous ‘Q Bomb’ mochi exterior. In addition, don’t miss out on their award winning nougat series with flavours such as Cranberry Nougat and French Nougat. Be blown away by the fragrant milk smell with a soft and chewy texture that will leave a pleasant aftertaste in your mouth.
Celebrate cherished bonds with Goodwood Park Hotel’s classic baked and creative snowskin mooncakes. This year’s exquisite collection is presented in an imperial yellow packaging adorned with pretty intricate floral motifs. Their newest creations, the Kumquat Melon with Macadamia Snowskin mooncake, features a rich macadamia paste surrounded by a light kumquat-infused Chiboust cream studded with refreshing melon chunks, all laid atop a crumbly tart base and wrapped in delicate snowskin adorned with pink and white swirls.
There’s no pairing more perfect than a mooncake with tea. Homegrown brand Tily Tea is well versed in crafting delightful herbal blends that complement these traditional treats: Their classic Single Yolk Mooncake has mulberry leaves infused in low sugar white lotus seed paste with whole mulberries, and comes in a variety of gorgeous floral-themed boxes, all of which come with selected blends of their most popular teas. For instance, the Blessings Tower comes with their signature mulberry mooncake as well as a tin of their limited edition Autumn Blossoms tea blend, a pleasant, caffeine-free combination of raspberry leaves, mulberries, Lily flower, Osmanthus and Jasmine blossoms.
Perfect for festive gatherings and family meals, Mdm Ling Bakery offers an Elegance Reunion Mooncake Turntable that enhances every celebration with a touch of sophistication and joy. Delight in the elegance of the beautifully designed turntable that combines functionality with floral finesse. Adorned with vibrant, hand-painted flowers on a serene background, this turntable can gracefully display and serve 4 mid-autumn mooncakes which includes their Traditional Baked Mooncakes with White Lotus Paste or Signature Assorted Baked Skins.
Mix it up with a bit of alcohol this season with August Baking Studio’s Alchemist Series Truffle Snowskin Mooncakes which are a harmonious blend of magical flavours and textures. Each mooncake is meticulously crafted, infusing the essence of premium cocktails into the velvety truffling filling. Delight in crowd-favourite flavours such as Dark Chocolate with Bailey Truffle and Lychee with Champagne Truffle.
Another option would be Le Levain’s Liqueur Truffle Snowskin Mooncakes. The delicately crafted mooncake features a sumptuous truffle-infused filling encased in a velvety snowskin, offering a delightful combination of smoothness and a burst of rich, aromatic flavours. Packing a punch, the alcohol cuts through the sweetness of the mooncake filling to provide a tantalising kick. Look forward to flavours such as Boozy Apricot Passion Fruit Truffle Snowskin Mooncake and Boozy Raspberry Truffle Snowskin Mooncake.
Most of the mooncakes can be purchased at TANGS Mid-Autumn Fair at NEX and Vivo City.
Images: Alchemist Series, Bread Garden, Duria SG, Envato (header), Fullerton Hotel Singapore, Golden Moments, Goodwood Park Hotel, Janice Wong Singapore, Le Levain, Mandarin Oriental Singapore, Mdm Ling Bakery, Peach Garden Chinese Restaurant, Pineapple Tarts Singapore, Sugar & Spice, The Pine Garden, Tilly Tea, W Singapore – Sentosa Cove, Wang Lai Bakery