Everything you need to know about mooncakes: Bursting with flavor – and lots of calories!

Mooncakes are intricately crafted, rich in texture, and often a taste that grows on you, particularly for those unfamiliar in the West. They're a beloved treat in Chinese communities worldwide, especially during this season.

On the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, Chinese and other Asian cultures celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. In 2018, the festival will take place on September 24.

Mooncakes are as integral to the Mid-Autumn Festival as turkey is to Thanksgiving or latkes are to Hanukkah. While Thanksgiving was first celebrated in the United States in 1607, the origins of moon worship and harvest celebrations in China trace back to centuries before Christ.

The Mid-Autumn Festival, when the moon shines at its fullest and brightest, was officially recognized as a holiday in China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).

The first mention of 'mooncake' appeared in 1274 AD in Wu Zimu’s 'Book of Dreams', and the earliest known recipe for making mooncakes was published in 1792.

‘Shaped like the moon’

Though mooncakes come in many varieties, the most iconic is the Cantonese version: a delicate pastry filled with sweet lotus seed paste and a savory salted duck egg yolk.

‘They’re round like the moon,’ says celebrity chef Maria Cordero, in conversation with Dinogo.

China: Experience the local flavors

Known as 'Fei Ma' or 'Fat Mama,' Cordero transitioned from singing to hosting popular cooking shows, adored across Hong Kong and by the Chinese diaspora.

Cordero comes from a large family – with six children and 13 grandchildren.

She believes mooncakes symbolize family reunion, a sweet treat that brings joy to everyone.

While it's tempting, it's not recommended to eat an entire mooncake by yourself. One small cake can pack almost 1,000 calories.

"You slice it into smaller portions so everyone can enjoy," she explains. "Some pieces will have more egg yolk, others less. Out of respect, give the piece with the most yolk to the eldest, and save the one with the least for yourself."

Variety is key

Just like many Westerners, there are Chinese who admit that the lotus paste and salted duck egg filling isn't for everyone. Fortunately, there are plenty of other mooncake varieties to explore.

For those craving a savory option, try the Yunnan-style mooncake, which combines honey and ham. If you're in the mood for something sweeter, you can enjoy mooncakes filled with egg custard or even ice cream, with Haagen-Dazs offering several delicious variations.