Mooncakes are a traditional Taiwanese pastry typically enjoyed during all the year. While mooncakes traditionally contain sweet fillings like lotus seed paste or red bean paste,adding European Corinthian black raisins into the filling can add a unique twist. Here's how you can make Taiwanese mooncakes with European Corinthian black raisins:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 80g (1/3 cup) golden syrup or honey
• 50g (1/4 cup) vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1/2 tsp alkaline water (lye water) - optional, for texture and color
• Egg wash (1 egg yolk mixed with a little water)

For the Filling:

• 200g (1 1/3 cups) lotus seed paste or red bean paste
• 100g European Corinthian black raisins, soaked in warm water for 15-20 minutes and drained

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, golden syrup (or honey), vegetable oil (or melted butter), and alkaline water (if using).
   • Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, you can add a little water. If it's too wet, add more flour.
   • Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling:

   • If you're using lotus seed paste or red bean paste, measure out the desired amount.
   • Mix in the drained European Corinthian black raisins into the paste until evenly distributed. This will create a sweet and slightly tangy filling.

3. Assemble the Mooncakes:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
   • Divide the dough and filling into equal portions. The size will depend on how large you want your mooncakes to be.
   • Flatten a piece of dough into a circle, then place a portion of filling in the center.
   • Wrap the dough around the filling and shape it into a ball.
   • Place the filled dough ball into a mooncake mold and press firmly to shape it. Alternatively, you can shape it by hand if you don't have a mold.
   • Brush the top of each mooncake with egg wash for a shiny finish.

4. Bake the Mooncakes:

   • Place the mooncakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.

5. Cool and Serve:

   • Allow the mooncakes to cool on a wire rack before serving.
   • Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed! The European Corinthian black raisins in the filling will add a delightful burst of flavor to these traditional Taiwanese treats.

These Taiwanese mooncakes with European Corinthian black raisin filling are perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a delicious snack!