6. Shanxi-style mooncakes

Shanxi-style mooncakes draw on northern China’s wheat-based pastry traditions. They are made with locally pressed flaxseed oil, giving the crust a distinctive nutty aroma and a crisp yet tender texture. Moderately sweet and not overly rich, they often feature fillings such as mixed nuts, rose, or jujube paste.

The signature Guo Du Lin mooncake is said to have been created by three Taiyuan pastry chefs surnamed Guo, Du, and Lin, giving the cake its name. The mooncake has the distinctive flavors of Shanxi and the Loess Plateau, making it a good choice for travelers looking to discover a lesser-known regional mooncake.

Time-honored brands to try:

Shuanghecheng (双合成): A time-honored brand known for its traditional Guo Du Lin mooncakes and Shanxi-style pastries.

Laoxiangcun (老香村): A long-established Taiyuan brand known for its classic five-nut Shanxi-style mooncakes.