Classic Cantonese moon cakes with golden crust and rich filling are the gold standard of mooncakes. A traditional family dessert for Mid-Autumn celebrations.
Mix golden syrup, vegetable oil, and lye water in a medium bowl until smooth and well-combined.
Sift the all-purpose flour into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold until a soft dough forms. Cover and let rest for 45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Divide lotus seed paste and salted egg yolks into 8 equal portions. Wrap each yolk with lotus paste, forming balls.
Divide rested dough into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each dough piece, enclosing the lotus yolk paste balls. Seal carefully and dust lightly with flour.
Press dough-wrapped filling into a mooncake mold. Tap out and place on a parchment-lined baking tray. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and cool for 10 minutes.
Beat 1 egg for egg wash. Brush a thin layer onto each mooncake. Return to oven and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
Let mooncakes cool completely on a rack. Store in an airtight container for 1-2 days for the crust to soften before serving.