Custom Engraved Mooncakes merges tradition and technology, creating handmade mooncakes using personalized 3D-printed molds for Mid-Autumn Festival. Inspired by nostalgic childhood memories, this project reimagines the classic treat with a personal touch, combining culinary craftsmanship with modern fabrication techniques.

The project began by designing custom molds engraved with family names in Chinese characters. Using an open-source mold template by Joseph Erdman as a base, the design was remixed to incorporate personalized engravings, which were 3D-printed to create precise, reusable molds.

While the molds printed, the lotus seed paste filling was prepared by blending and slow-cooking lotus seeds with honey, sugar, and oil. Salted egg yolks were rolled into the paste, then carefully wrapped in dough and pressed into the custom molds. After baking, the mooncakes emerged golden and aromatic, symbolizing unity and harmony in the shape of a full moon.

Materials

• 3D printer and PLA filament to make the custom molds featuring engraved family names
• Lotus seeds, honey, sugar, oil, salted egg yolks, and dough for the mooncakes

This project connects tradition, innovation, and community. By blending cultural nostalgia with personalized design, the mooncakes became not only a delicious treat but also a meaningful way to share heritage.

These handmade mooncakes were distributed to neighbors and friends, many of whom were trying lotus seed mooncakes for the first time. This act of sharing bridged cultures and languages, highlighting the power of food as a universal connector and a medium for storytelling, tradition, and care.