Different Types of Vietnamese Mooncakes: Sweet, Salty, Snow Skin & More
Vietnamese mooncakes are as diverse as the country’s culture — offering a delicious mix of flavors, textures, and regional specialties. From traditional baked cakes with salted egg to colorful snow skin creations, each type tells a unique story. This guide explores the most popular mooncake varieties and how to choose the right one for every occasion.
Curious about Vietnamese mooncakes? Explore the main types — traditional baked, snow skin, salty, sweet, and regional varieties — and find your perfect match for gifting or celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Traditional Baked Mooncakes
What Are They?
Bánh nướng (baked mooncakes) are the most iconic type in Vietnam. They are made with a golden-brown pastry crust and often filled with a combination of savory and sweet ingredients.
Popular Fillings:
- Mixed nuts & seeds (thập cẩm): A blend of lotus seeds, melon seeds, pork floss, sausage, and salted egg yolk.
- Lotus seed paste: Smooth, mildly sweet, and symbolic of purity.
- Mung bean paste: Popular for its light, soft texture and subtle sweetness.
Ideal For: Gifting to elders, cultural celebrations, formal ceremonies.
Snow Skin Mooncakes
What Are They?
Bánh dẻo lạnh (snow skin mooncakes) are soft, chewy mooncakes made without baking. Originating in Hong Kong but embraced in Vietnam, they’re known for their pastel colors and refreshing taste.
Key Features:
- Made with glutinous rice flour and served chilled
- Popular flavors include matcha, durian, and fruit jams
- Often filled with custard or chocolate
Ideal For: Young adults, Instagram-worthy gifts, light dessert options.
Salty Mooncakes
Unique Taste Profile:
Salty mooncakes are rising in popularity thanks to their umami depth. They often include savory ingredients such as:
- Cured egg yolk
- Roasted chicken floss
- Salted green beans or meat fillings
When to Choose Salty Options: For those who prefer savory treats, as a contrast in gift boxes, or for business gifting.
Sweet Mooncakes
Beloved Flavors:
- Chocolate or cocoa
- Fruit jellies
- Coconut milk or taro paste
These are perfect for dessert lovers and go well with tea to balance the sweetness.
Regional Mooncake Styles
- Northern Vietnam: More traditional baked styles with balanced flavors.
- Central Vietnam: Dense textures and savory emphasis.
- Southern Vietnam: Brighter colors, sweeter taste, and snow skin trends.
Choosing the Right Mooncake Type
Who’s It For?
| Recipient Type | Best Mooncake Choice |
|---|---|
| Elders | Baked, traditional flavors |
| Kids | Sweet or chocolate snow skin |
| Business Clients | Mixed nuts or salted yolk baked |
| Friends or Couples | Snow skin or fruit-filled cakes |
| Health-Conscious | Low-sugar mung bean or lotus |
Variety That Connects Culture & Taste
Vietnamese mooncakes are not one-size-fits-all. Whether you're drawn to nostalgic baked flavors or adventurous snow skin combinations, there's a mooncake to suit every palate. Discovering the different types allows you to gift more meaningfully and celebrate Mid-Autumn with cultural appreciation and culinary joy.
🎁 Looking for the perfect mooncake gift?
Order from Saigonflowers.com — premium mooncake delivery across Vietnam for Mid-Autumn Festival 2025.
Shop Mooncakes Now