18 Chinese Desserts (Sweet Treats from Across China)

China is a land of rich culinary history, and when it comes to desserts, it offers an enchanting array of sweet treats that reflect the diversity of its provinces. The thought of enjoying a delightful Chinese dessert evokes memories of family gatherings, festivals, and simple moments of joy. Whether you have savored these sweets before or are curious to explore them for the first time, this post is for you.

If you love food and want to dive deep into the world of traditional Chinese sweets, you’re in for a treat. I’ve gathered a list of 18 popular Chinese desserts that will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also showcase the unique flavors and cultural significance behind each delicacy. From the chewy texture of Tangyuan to the crispy layers of Egg Tarts, you’ll discover desserts that are perfect for every occasion, or simply to enjoy at home.

Get ready to learn about these regional Chinese treats that are as diverse as the country itself. This guide will take you on a virtual journey where you can explore the flavors and ingredients that define each dessert. By the end, you’ll not only know how to make these delicious treats but also understand their cultural significance, making you an informed dessert enthusiast!

Key Takeaways

– Explore Diversity: Discover 18 unique Chinese desserts, each reflecting its region’s culture and flavors.

– Culinary Insights: Learn about the ingredients and techniques used in making traditional Chinese sweets.

– Cultural Significance: Understand the historical and cultural relevance of each dessert in Chinese celebrations.

– Easy Recipes: Access straightforward recipes that allow you to try making these treats at home.

– Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Find desserts suited for various occasions, whether for family gatherings or casual snacking.

1. Mooncakes (月饼)

Craving a sweet treat that brings people together? Mooncakes are iconic during the Mid-Autumn Festival, symbolizing harmony and reunion. These round delights typically boast a sweet filling, like lotus seed or red bean paste, and sometimes include salted egg yolks for an extra kick. The tender crust and intricate designs make them as beautiful as they are delicious, perfect for sharing with family and friends under the full moon.

Enjoying mooncakes is more than just tasting; it’s about creating memories. With variations from different regions, you can explore baked versions from Guangdong or the trendy snow skin mooncakes from Shanghai. Pair them with tea, and you have a delightful gift that lasts.

Ingredients:
– 500g all-purpose flour
– 200g golden syrup
– 100g lard
– 1 tsp alkaline water
– 400g lotus seed paste
– 4 salted egg yolks (optional)

Instructions:
1. Combine flour, golden syrup, lard, and alkaline water to form a dough.
2. Cover and let it rest for 2 hours.
3. Divide the dough and filling into equal portions, shape into balls, and mold them in a mooncake mold.
4. Bake the mooncakes until golden, around 20 minutes.
5. Allow to cool before serving.

Mooncakes are a feast for the senses, making every occasion special.

2. Tangyuan (汤圆)

Looking for a comforting dessert with a touch of tradition? Tangyuan are delightful glutinous rice balls filled with sweet black sesame or peanut paste, perfect for celebrating family unity during the Lantern Festival. When cooked, these chewy dumplings become soft and slightly sticky, providing warmth and comfort, especially in winter.

Making tangyuan is a fun family activity! Gather around to fill and shape these treats together. Serve them in a sweet ginger syrup for an extra burst of flavor. Each bite is a delightful surprise, blending the chewy exterior with a rich, sweet filling.

Ingredients:
– 200g glutinous rice flour
– 100ml water
– 80g black sesame paste (or peanut butter)
– 100g sugar
– 2 slices of ginger

Instructions:
1. Mix rice flour and water to create a dough.
2. Shape the dough into small balls, flatten them, and add a spoonful of filling in the center.
3. Seal the dough back into a ball.
4. Boil water and add the tangyuan, cooking until they float.
5. In another pot, boil water with ginger slices and dissolve sugar for syrup.
6. Serve the tangyuan in the syrup.

Tangyuan not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also weave together moments of joy and family bonding.

3. Egg Tarts (蛋挞)

In the mood for a sweet indulgence? Egg tarts are a heavenly pastry treat that combines a flaky crust with a creamy custard filling, originating from Macau and loved throughout China. The contrast between the crisp exterior and smooth filling creates a delightful experience, especially when enjoyed fresh from the oven.

With variations like the Hong Kong-style baked egg tart featuring a caramelized top, these tarts are perfect for snacking or dessert. Enjoy them alongside dim sum or a warm cup of milk tea. Their charm lies in their versatility, appealing to everyone’s taste buds.

Ingredients:
– 250g puff pastry
– 3 large eggs
– 200ml milk
– 100g sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:
1. Roll out the puff pastry and line each tart tin.
2. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
3. Whisk the eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Pour the filling into the pastry crusts.
5. Bake for 20 minutes or until the custard is set and the top turns golden.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Egg tarts are more than just a snack; they’re a delightful journey into the heart of Chinese pastry culture.

4. Mango Pudding (芒果布丁)

Craving a taste of summer? Mango pudding is a luscious dessert that brings tropical vibes to your table. Made with fresh mango puree and creamy coconut milk, this treat is not only delicious but also refreshing on a hot day. Its vibrant yellow hue and silky texture make it a feast for the eyes and palate alike.

This pudding is a popular choice at family gatherings and festivals, served chilled and often topped with diced mango or a splash of coconut cream. The sweet mango paired with the creamy pudding creates a delightful balance that is hard to resist.

Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangoes
– 200ml coconut milk
– 50g sugar
– 1 tbsp gelatin powder
– 100ml water

Instructions:
1. Blend the mango flesh until smooth.
2. Dissolve gelatin in warm water, then mix with coconut milk and sugar.
3. Combine the mango puree and gelatin mixture, stirring well.
4. Pour into molds and refrigerate until set (about 4 hours).
5. Serve chilled with extra mango pieces on top.

Mango pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a tropical escape in every spoonful.

5. Red Bean Soup (红豆汤)

Searching for a warm and comforting dessert? Red bean soup is a delightful sweet treat made from adzuki beans, often enjoyed in colder months. This creamy soup is naturally sweetened and serves as a cozy end to any meal or a comforting snack.

You can enjoy red bean soup either hot or cold, depending on your preference. It’s often garnished with glutinous rice balls or a drizzle of coconut milk, adding layers of flavor and texture. This dessert reflects the appreciation for wholesome ingredients in Chinese cooking.

Ingredients:
– 200g adzuki beans
– 100g sugar
– 1 liter water
– A pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: coconut milk, glutinous rice balls

Instructions:
1. Soak the adzuki beans in water overnight.
2. Drain and boil them in fresh water until soft.
3. Add sugar and a pinch of salt, stirring until dissolved.
4. Optionally serve with coconut milk or glutinous rice balls on top.

Red bean soup is a beloved dessert that warms the body and soul, reminding you of home and tradition.

6. Tofu Pudding (豆花)

Craving something light and silky? Tofu pudding, known as douhua, is a delicate dessert made from soft, silken tofu, often served in a sweet syrup. This dessert is incredibly smooth, melting in your mouth and can be customized with various toppings, from sweet ginger syrup to crushed peanuts or fresh fruits.

The texture is creamy and light, making it a favorite at street food stalls and family gatherings. The simplicity of its preparation highlights the natural flavor of tofu while adding a touch of sweetness for a well-rounded dessert.

Ingredients:
– 400g silken tofu
– 100ml water
– 150g sugar
– 1 tbsp ginger, sliced
– Optional toppings: crushed peanuts, honey, or fruit

Instructions:
1. Heat water and sugar until dissolved to make syrup, adding ginger for flavor.
2. Gently warm the silken tofu.
3. Serve tofu in bowls, drizzling syrup on top with your choice of toppings.
4. Enjoy warm or chilled.

Tofu pudding offers a refreshing option, proving that the simplest desserts can be the most delightful.

7. Pineapple Buns (菠萝包)

Looking for a unique pastry experience? Pineapple buns are a beloved treat in Hong Kong, known for their distinct crust that resembles a pineapple’s skin, even though they contain no actual pineapple. The soft, fluffy bun pairs perfectly with the sweet, sugary topping, creating a delightful contrast.

These buns are often enjoyed plain or with a slice of melted butter inside, making them an irresistible snack. Their sweet, crispy crust offers a satisfying crunch, making them perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea, and they can be found in bakeries throughout Hong Kong.

Ingredients:
– 300g all-purpose flour
– 100g sugar
– 150ml water
– 5g yeast
– 80g unsalted butter
– 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions:
1. Mix flour, sugar, water, and yeast to form a dough.
2. Knead until smooth, then let rise for 1 hour.
3. Roll into balls and rest for 15 minutes.
4. Prepare the topping by mixing sugar, flour, and butter until crumbly. Shape it into a crust.
5. Place the topping on the dough balls and brush with egg wash.
6. Bake at 180°C (356°F) until golden brown.

Pineapple buns evoke nostalgia, making each bite a sweet memory worth savoring.

8. Chinese Almond Cookies (杏仁饼)

In need of a sweet, nutty treat? Chinese almond cookies are buttery and crumbly, made primarily with almond flour and slivered almonds, creating a delightful nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with tea. These cookies are a festive favorite, enjoyed during celebrations and as a light snack.

With their golden crust and tender texture, they’re not only delicious but also easy to make at home, making them a hit at family gatherings or as gifts. Their simplicity and rich flavor make them a staple in many households.

Ingredients:
– 200g all-purpose flour
– 100g almond flour
– 80g sugar
– 100g butter
– 1 egg (beaten)
– 30g slivered almonds (for topping)

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy, then mix in the beaten egg.
3. Gradually add flour and almond flour to form a dough.
4. Shape the dough into small balls, place on baking sheets, and flatten slightly.
5. Top with slivered almonds and bake until golden.

Chinese almond cookies encapsulate tradition and are an enjoyable treat for all ages.

9. Sesame Balls (芝麻球)

Craving something crispy and chewy? Sesame balls, or jian dui, are deep-fried pastries coated in sesame seeds, filled with sweet red bean paste. They’re crispy on the outside yet delightfully chewy on the inside, offering a wonderful textural contrast.

These treats are popular at celebrations and are often served during dim sum. Watching them puff up beautifully while frying creates a visual delight, making them as enjoyable to look at as they are to eat. The nutty flavor of sesame seeds complements the sweetness of the filling perfectly.

Ingredients:
– 200g glutinous rice flour
– 100g water
– 100g red bean paste
– 100g sesame seeds
– Oil for frying

Instructions:
1. Combine glutinous rice flour and water to form a dough.
2. Divide the dough into small balls, flatten, and place a filling inside, sealing it well.
3. Roll each ball in sesame seeds until fully coated.
4. Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil and serve warm.

Sesame balls are a delicious combination of crunch and sweetness, making them a favorite among dessert lovers.

10. Sweet Potato Balls (地瓜球)

Looking for a trendy treat? Sweet potato balls are made from mashed sweet potatoes and tapioca flour, resulting in a chewy treat with a slightly sweet flavor. Often deep-fried, they develop a crispy exterior while staying soft and gooey inside.

These delightful balls can be served plain or coated in coconut flakes for extra flavor. They’ve gained popularity at street food stalls, and their vibrant orange color adds a cheerful touch to any plate. The sweet yet subtle flavor makes them enjoyable for all ages.

Ingredients:
– 300g sweet potatoes (mashed)
– 100g tapioca flour
– 50g sugar
– Oil for frying
– Optional: coconut flakes

Instructions:
1. Mix mashed sweet potatoes with tapioca flour and sugar to form a dough.
2. Roll into small balls and optionally coat in coconut flakes.
3. Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden brown.
4. Drain excess oil and serve warm.

Sweet potato balls offer a nostalgic flavor while adding a fun twist to traditional desserts.

Fun fact: Street stalls serve over 2,000 portions of sweet potato balls weekly in coastal cities, turning this chewy chinese food dessert into a crowd magnet. Fry just until the exterior is crispy to keep the gooey center. Try coating in coconut for extra flavor.

11. Coconut Jelly (椰子冻)

Craving a refreshing dessert? Coconut jelly is a delightful treat made from coconut milk and gelatin, resulting in a soft and wobbly dessert that’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day. The rich yet refreshing flavor of coconut makes it a popular choice in many Asian cultures.

This dessert can be crafted using fresh coconut or canned coconut milk and is often garnished with colorful fruit, adding a burst of flavor and visual appeal. Its lightness and tropical essence make coconut jelly a perfect finish to any meal or a snack during warmer weather.

Ingredients:
– 400ml coconut milk
– 3 tbsp sugar
– 2 tbsp gelatin powder
– 100ml water
– Optional fruits for garnish

Instructions:
1. Dissolve gelatin in warm water.
2. Heat coconut milk and sugar until dissolved.
3. Mix in the dissolved gelatin and pour into molds.
4. Refrigerate until set (about 2 hours).
5. Serve chilled with fruits on top.

Coconut jelly encapsulates the taste of the tropics, making it a refreshing dessert you won’t want to miss.

12. Mung Bean Cake (绿豆糕)

In search of a refreshing dessert? Mung bean cake is a traditional treat made from steamed mung beans, enjoyed especially during the hot summer months. This cake is light, subtly sweet, and has a moist, jelly-like texture that appeals to those who prefer less sugary options.

The preparation involves soaking and steaming the beans, blending them into a smooth paste, and shaping them into molds. Mung bean cake can be enjoyed plain or filled with red bean paste, adding a delightful twist to this classic dish. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal ingredients while offering a wholesome dessert choice.

Ingredients:
– 250g mung beans (soaked)
– 50g sugar
– 200ml water
– Optional: fillings (red bean paste)

Instructions:
1. Steam soaked mung beans until soft.
2. Mash or blend beans with sugar and water into a paste.
3. Pour into molds, adding fillings if desired.
4. Let cool and set before removing from molds.

Mung bean cake is not just a dessert; it symbolizes health and wellness in Chinese culture.

13. Fried Milk (炸鲜奶)

Craving a unique dessert experience? Fried milk is a delightful treat that surprises with its creamy interior and crispy exterior. Originating from Guangdong, this dessert is made by thickening milk with cornstarch, then frying it until golden brown and dusted with powdered sugar.

The textural contrast between the crunchy outside and the rich, milky flavor inside makes it an indulgent treat. Often enjoyed at street markets, fried milk has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts everywhere.

Ingredients:
– 500ml milk
– 50g cornstarch
– 50g sugar
– Oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Heat milk with sugar until dissolved.
2. Gradually mix in cornstarch until thickened.
3. Pour into a dish, set, and chill.
4. Cut into squares and fry until golden brown.
5. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Fried milk combines creaminess and crunch for a memorable dessert experience.

Fun fact: Guangdong’s fried milk began in the 1920s as a street-side chinese food dessert, then won hearts nationwide. Its crispy exterior hides a creamy, milky interior, making every bite a surprising contrast worth sharing.

14. Steamed Custard Buns (奶黄包)

In the mood for something fluffy and sweet? Steamed custard buns are soft, pillowy treats filled with creamy custard, making every bite a delightful experience. Popular in dim sum restaurants, these buns are loved for their sweet filling and airy texture, often enhanced with rich egg yolk flavor.

They are typically served warm, making them a perfect addition to any meal or a delicious snack. The contrast between the soft bun and the sweet, warm filling is a hit with all ages, making them a must-try in the realm of Chinese desserts.

Ingredients:
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 70g sugar
– 120ml milk
– 1 tbsp yeast
– 2 egg yolks (for filling)
– 50g butter

Instructions:
1. Mix flour, sugar, milk, and yeast to knead into a dough.
2. Let rise until doubled in size.
3. For the filling, whisk egg yolks with sugar and butter until smooth.
4. Divide dough, fill with custard, and shape into buns.
5. Steam for 15-20 minutes until fluffy.

Steamed custard buns are not just a treat; they offer a delightful combination of texture and flavor that you won’t want to miss.

15. Sesame Paste Cake (芝麻糕)

In search of a traditional dessert? Sesame paste cake is a flavorful treat often found in northern China. Made from ground sesame seeds and glutinous rice flour, it offers a sweet, chewy texture packed with nutty flavors. This cake is typically enjoyed during special occasions and symbolizes good fortune.

The preparation involves mixing sesame paste with rice flour to create a dough, which is then steamed to achieve a unique texture. It can be served plain or with fillings, adding variety to this simple yet delightful recipe. Each bite of sesame paste cake delivers a taste of tradition and nostalgia.

Ingredients:
– 200g glutinous rice flour
– 100g ground sesame seeds
– 100g sugar
– 200ml water
– Optional fillings: red bean paste

Instructions:
1. Mix glutinous rice flour, ground sesame, and sugar with water to form a dough.
2. Divide and shape into cakes, adding fillings if desired.
3. Steam for 20 minutes until cooked.
4. Allow to cool before slicing.

Sesame paste cake is a simple yet nourishing dessert that showcases traditional flavors in Chinese cuisine.

16. Almond Tofu (杏仁豆腐)

Craving a delicate dessert? Almond tofu, or almond jelly, is a light and refreshing treat made from almond milk and gelatin. With a subtle almond flavor that’s both sweet and slightly nutty, it’s often served chilled and topped with fruit or syrup, making it a delightful palate cleanser after a rich meal.

This dessert is a popular choice at Chinese banquets and celebrations, symbolizing good luck and happiness. Its smooth texture and light flavor make it a wonderful treat enjoyed by people of all ages.

Ingredients:
– 400ml almond milk
– 2 tbsp gelatin powder
– 50g sugar
– 100ml water
– Optional toppings: fruit or syrup

Instructions:
1. Dissolve gelatin in warm water.
2. Heat almond milk with sugar until dissolved.
3. Mix in gelatin and pour into molds.
4. Refrigerate until set (about 4-6 hours).
5. Serve chilled with fruit or syrup on top.

Almond tofu brings a delightful twist to traditional desserts, offering a light and refreshing option that tastes as good as it looks.

17. Sweet Rice Cake (年糕)

In need of a festive dessert? Sweet rice cake, or nian gao, is a traditional treat enjoyed during the Lunar New Year. Made from glutinous rice flour, it showcases a chewy texture and is often sweetened with sugar, symbolizing prosperity and good luck for the coming year.

This dessert is versatile, served steamed, pan-fried, or added to soups. Its satisfying chewiness and sweetness make it a delightful treat for all ages. It’s a must-try during Lunar New Year celebrations, representing family reunions and joy.

Ingredients:
– 300g glutinous rice flour
– 200g sugar
– 250ml water
– Optional: red bean paste or fillings

Instructions:
1. Mix glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water to form a batter.
2. Pour into a greased mold and steam for about 30 minutes.
3. Let cool before slicing.
4. Optionally pan-fry slices until golden.

Sweet rice cake not only brings joy and good fortune but also encapsulates the spirit of celebration in Chinese culture.

Fun fact: A single piece of nian gao is said to promise 365 days of luck for the year. Families savor it steamed, pan-fried, or added to soups as a versatile chinese food dessert that celebrates Lunar New Year. Its chewy sweetness makes sharing easy and memorable.

18. Eight-Treasure Rice Pudding (八宝饭)

Looking for a stunning dessert for your next celebration? Eight-treasure rice pudding is a beautiful treat traditionally served during festivals. Made from glutinous rice steamed with eight types of sweet toppings like red dates, nuts, and dried fruits, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

This pudding not only looks gorgeous but is also rich in flavors and textures, delivering a delightful combination of chewy rice and sweet toppings with every bite. It symbolizes abundance and good fortune, making it a favorite during Lunar New Year and family gatherings.

Ingredients:
– 300g glutinous rice (soaked)
– 50g dried red dates
– 50g raisins
– 50g nuts (walnuts, almonds)
– 50g dried apricots
– 200ml sweet syrup

Instructions:
1. Steam soaked glutinous rice until cooked.
2. Mix in dried fruits and nuts.
3. Shape into a mound and drizzle with sweet syrup before serving.
4. Garnish with additional fruits or nuts if desired.

Eight-treasure rice pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions, making it a sweet ending to any feast.

Conclusion

Sampling these 18 Chinese desserts is like taking a sweet journey through the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and tradition. Each dessert offers a unique experience, from the striking flavors of mooncakes to the delightful textures of sweet rice cakes. These traditional Chinese sweets not only satisfy your cravings but also connect you to the stories and heritage of the regions they come from.

With every bite, you’re not just tasting a treat; you’re experiencing a piece of history. So whether you’re celebrating a festival or just indulging in some everyday sweetness, these desserts are sure to elevate any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions