This Year’s Mooncake Flavours Are Shaking Up Mid-Autumn

From Musang King to boozy ice cream wrapped in snow skin, this year’s mooncakes are giving tradition a few unexpected plot twists.

The Mid-Autumn Festival may still be a few weeks away, but Malaysians clearly don’t believe in waiting. Mooncakes are already making their annual appearance, from the classic white lotus and red bean varieties to more adventurous creations involving Musang King, tea, citrus and even alcohol-infused ice cream.

And then there’s the packaging. Because apparently, eating the mooncake is only half the experience. This year’s boxes come with drawers, padlocks, and enough decorative flair to earn a second life long after the last mooncake has disappeared. Here’s what’s landing on the mooncake table this Mid-Autumn.

Shangri-La KL

Shangri-La is among the early birds of mooncake season, returning with a generous spread of familiar favourites and premium fillings. Expect white lotus seed, sun-dried fruits and nuts, red bean paste, Musang King, and bird’s nest, all tucked into suitably polished gift boxes. The packaging comes with pull-out drawers, which means once the mooncakes are gone, you’ve got yourself a rather fancy little jewellery box. Prices start from RM318, with more than five gift sets to choose from.

IG: @shangrilakl

Caketella

Alcoholic ice cream mooncake? Oh yes please, Caketella. For its Mid-Autumn collection, the dessert brand has teamed up with Roku Gin, Baileys, Martell, Jameson, and Moutai to create a box of eight ice cream mooncakes, including two non-alcoholic flavours for those who prefer to keep things booze-free. At RM280, this is less of a traditional mooncake moment and more of a party disguised as dessert. Best enjoyed with family, friends and perhaps someone willing to share the last piece.

IG: @caketella

Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur

If you prefer your mooncakes without too many surprises, Imperial Lexis is keeping things close to tradition with ‘The Imperial Moonrise’ collection. The line-up features flavours such as white lotus, fruits and nuts, and pandan, presented in a gift box shaped like a giant fan. Once the mooncakes have been eaten, the box is stylish enough to stick around as part of your home décor. Priced at RM260, it’s a polished pick for anyone who appreciates the classics with a little extra presentation.

IG: @imperiallexiskl

Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

Park Hyatt is taking mooncakes in a slightly more unexpected direction with flavours such as peach tea, black tea, dragon fruit, milk chocolate, and calamansi. Then there’s the box, which may have some serious competition with the mooncakes themselves. Designed to resemble a vintage Malay wardrobe complete with gold drawers, it’s the kind of packaging you’ll probably keep around long after Mid-Autumn is over. Prices start from RM188, making this one gift that’s unlikely to be forgotten in a hurry.

IG: @parkhyatt_kl

Buttersome

Buttersome is officially joining the mooncake conversation with its first-ever collection, and naturally, it’s bringing some playful flavour combinations to the table. Think Strawberry Matcha, Red Bean Mochi, Orange Oolong, and Chocolate Hazelnut & Coffee. Prices start from RM88, while all mooncakes are made with pork-free, lard-free and alcohol-free ingredients.

IG: @buttersome.my

Sheraton Petaling Jaya

Sheraton Petaling Jaya is giving Mid-Autumn a little extra drama with its ‘Luna Radiance’ mooncake collection, created by Chef Ben Lim, head chef of Yue Chinese restaurant. The flavours span yuzu, durian, matcha, and lychee, but the packaging is equally ready for its close-up. Available in four designs, including Pearl-Maroon and Rosewood Red, the boxes come finished with a shimmering crystal padlock. Meanwhile, the Premium Mooncake Gift Box also includes a deluxe Chinese tea set for those looking to go all out. Prices start from RM158. Consider this the mooncake equivalent of arriving overdressed in the best way possible.

IG: @sheratonpetalingjaya

Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel

The new Marriott in town is wasting no time getting into the Mid-Autumn spirit with a collection that covers both familiar territory and something a little different. Traditional-inspired flavours include pandan and longan with wolfberries, while Musang King and citrus lemon bring a fresher twist to the mix. Prices start from RM188, making this a solid option for anyone who likes their mooncakes classic, but not too predictable.

IG: @petalingjayamarriott

Opening image is courtesy of Shangri-La KL