7. Hainan-style mooncakes

Hainan-style mooncakes combine the flaky crust of Suzhou-style mooncakes with the syrup crust of Cantonese-style ones, creating a light, crisp, and tender texture. They are also relatively lower in sugar and oil, making them less rich and easier to enjoy.

Hainan’s local produce takes center stage in the fillings. Coconut, shredded coconut, and pandan bean paste bring a fresh tropical aroma, while barbecue pork with lotus seed paste offers a savory-sweet option. Popular varieties include fruit-and-vegetable, nut, and salted egg yolk mooncakes.

Time-honored brands to try:

Qiongzhen (琼珍): A Hainan time-honored brand dating to 1935, known for traditional Hainan-style mooncakes and nostalgic paper-tube packaging.

Jinxiangfang (锦香坊): Known for its 40-gram "new Hainan-style" mini mooncakes, packed in portable gift boxes that are convenient to take home.