If you have a sweet tooth and an interest in Chinese cuisine, you might find yourself wondering about the popular desserts and sweets in China. From delicate pastries to rich puddings, the world of Chinese sweets is diverse and exciting. Join us as we explore the tantalizing flavors and delightful treats that make up the popular Chinese dessert scene. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through Chinese culture and taste buds! When it comes to Chinese cuisine, we often think of savory dishes like dumplings, stir-fried noodles, and Peking duck. However, Chinese cuisine is also renowned for its wide array of desserts and sweets. From mooncakes to sesame balls, there is a delightful range of treats waiting to be explored. So, put on your dessert-loving hat, because we are about to embark on a sweet culinary journey through some of the most popular Chinese desserts and sweets!
Mooncakes
Let’s start with one of the most iconic Chinese desserts: mooncakes. These round, sweet pastries are traditionally enjoyed during the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time to appreciate the full moon and reunite with loved ones. Mooncakes have a rich history spanning over 2,000 years and come in various flavors and styles:
Traditional Mooncakes
The traditional mooncake is made with a flaky pastry crust and usually filled with lotus seed paste or red bean paste. These mooncakes are often adorned with intricate designs and may contain salted egg yolks, symbolizing the full moon.
Snow Skin Mooncakes
Snow skin mooncakes are a more recent addition to the mooncake family. Unlike their baked counterparts, these mooncakes have a soft, chewy, and snow-white exterior made from glutinous rice flour. Inside, you’ll find a variety of fillings, such as custard, fruit, or even ice cream.
Fruit and Nut Mooncakes
For those seeking a healthier alternative, fruit and nut mooncakes are a fantastic choice. These mooncakes are filled with a delightful mixture of dried fruits and nuts, providing a burst of natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes
Lotus seed paste is a popular filling in many Chinese desserts, and mooncakes are no exception. Lotus seed paste mooncakes are beloved for their silky smooth texture and subtly sweet flavor. Some variations may include salted egg yolks or even melon seeds for added texture.
Red Bean Paste Mooncakes
Red bean paste is a staple in Chinese desserts, and it’s no surprise that it finds its way into mooncakes. These mooncakes feature a sweet and velvety red bean filling encased in a buttery pastry crust. They are a must-try for anyone with a fondness for this classic Chinese ingredient.
Red Bean Soup
Red bean soup is a beloved Chinese dessert that is simple yet incredibly satisfying. Made from adzuki beans, the soup is cooked until the beans become tender and release their lovely earthy flavors. There are a few variations of red bean soup you should definitely try:
Sweet Red Bean Soup
Sweet red bean soup is the most common variation, and it’s often served warm as a comforting treat. The beans are sweetened with sugar or rock sugar, creating a lusciously thick and satisfying dessert soup.
Tian Shuan Zong
Tian Shuan Zong is a unique twist on red bean soup. It combines sweet red bean soup with tangyuan, which are glutinous rice balls filled with sweet fillings, like sesame paste or peanut butter. The combination of the warm soup and chewy rice balls creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Tangyuan
Tangyuan, also known as glutinous rice balls, are another staple in Chinese desserts. These tiny, chewy dumplings are made from glutinous rice flour and can be enjoyed in sweet or savory variations. Let’s explore the different types of tangyuan:
Sweet Tangyuan
Sweet tangyuan are typically served in a bowl of sweet soup or syrup. The dumplings are filled with various sweet fillings, such as sesame paste, red bean paste, or even fruit. The soft, chewy texture of the dumplings pairs perfectly with the sweet soup, creating a delightful dessert experience.
Savory Tangyuan
While sweet tangyuan steal the spotlight, savory tangyuan are equally delicious and worth trying. These dumplings are usually filled with ingredients like minced meat, mushrooms, or vegetables and served in a savory broth. The combination of the chewy dumplings and flavorful broth creates a comforting and satisfying savory treat.
Egg Tarts
Egg tarts are a delectable Chinese dessert that showcases the influence of Macau’s Portuguese heritage. These rich and creamy custard tarts have a flaky, buttery crust and a silky smooth egg custard filling. There are a few different styles of egg tarts to discover:
Macau-style Egg Tarts
Macau-style egg tarts are the most well-known variation, and they have become an iconic symbol of Macau’s culinary scene. The crust is reminiscent of puff pastry, with buttery layers that crumble delightfully with each bite. The custard filling is creamy, fragrant, and slightly caramelized on top, adding a delightful contrast of textures.
Hong Kong-style Egg Tarts
Hong Kong-style egg tarts have a slightly different take on the classic recipe. The crust is made from shortcrust pastry, resulting in a more crumbly and buttery texture. The custard filling is silky smooth and slightly lighter in flavor compared to its Macau counterpart.
Portuguese-style Egg Tarts
Portuguese-style egg tarts, also known as pastel de nata, are where the influence of Portuguese cuisine shines. These tarts have a flaky puff pastry crust and an indulgent custard filling that is rich and creamy. The filling often includes a hint of vanilla or cinnamon, adding a delightful twist to the traditional recipe.
Sesame Balls
Sesame balls, also known as jian dui, are delightful little treats that are loved across China. These deep-fried dumplings have a crispy exterior and a chewy, glutinous rice dough filled with sweet or savory fillings. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of sesame balls:
Fried Sesame Balls
Fried sesame balls have a golden brown, crispy exterior that encases a chewy glutinous rice dough. The filling can vary, but the most common is sweet red bean paste. Each bite offers a sensational contrast of textures, with the crispness of the shell giving way to the sticky sweetness of the filling.
Steamed Sesame Balls
Steamed sesame balls are a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. These fluffy dumplings are steamed, resulting in a softer and less greasy texture. They are often filled with sweet black sesame paste, which offers a rich nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the delicate steamed dough.
Tofu Pudding
Tofu pudding, also known as douhua, is a silky smooth dessert made from soybeans. It has a delicate and custard-like texture that melts in your mouth. While tofu pudding is often enjoyed plain, it can also be paired with various toppings or flavored syrups. Let’s explore the different types of tofu pudding:
Douhua
Douhua is the most basic form of tofu pudding. Made from soft tofu and a sweet syrup made from rock sugar, it offers a subtly sweet and creamy experience. It is usually served warm, either plain or with a drizzle of ginger-infused syrup.
Mung Bean Tofu Pudding
Mung bean tofu pudding takes the traditional douhua to a whole new level. The pudding is made from ground mung beans, giving it a vibrant green color. Alongside its silky texture, mung bean tofu pudding offers a delicate and refreshing flavor that is perfect for those seeking a unique twist on a classic dessert.
Sweet Rice Dumplings
Sweet rice dumplings, also known as sticky rice dumplings or zongzi, are a traditional Chinese dessert often enjoyed during the Dragon Boat Festival. These pyramid-shaped treats are made by wrapping sticky rice in bamboo leaves and steaming them until they are tender and fragrant. Here are some delicious variations of sweet rice dumplings:
Sticky Rice Dumplings with Red Bean
Sticky rice dumplings with red bean are a classic choice that showcases the versatility of adzuki beans. The sticky rice is soaked in a sweet syrup and filled with a generous amount of red bean paste. This combination creates a delectable dessert with a perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness.
Sticky Rice Dumplings with Black Sesame
If you’re a fan of the nutty aroma and rich flavor of black sesame, then you must try sticky rice dumplings with black sesame. The sticky rice is infused with black sesame paste, resulting in a delightful, aromatic treat. The earthy sweetness of the black sesame pairs perfectly with the slightly salty bamboo leaves.
Sticky Rice Dumplings with Salted Egg Yolk
For a savory twist, try sticky rice dumplings with salted egg yolk. The sticky rice is enveloped around a golden salted egg yolk, creating a tantalizing contrast of flavors. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and aromatic notes that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Mango Pudding
Mango pudding is a refreshing and tropical dessert that has become a favorite in Chinese cuisine. Made from fresh mangoes, it has a smooth and creamy texture that is synonymous with indulgence. There are a few variations of mango pudding that you should definitely try:
Creamy Mango Pudding
Creamy mango pudding is the classic variation that steals the hearts of dessert lovers. It combines fresh mango puree with cream or condensed milk, resulting in a rich and velvety dessert. The vibrant color and tropical flavor make this pudding a delightful treat for mango enthusiasts.
Fresh Mango Pudding
If you prefer a lighter and more refreshing version, fresh mango pudding is the way to go. This variation uses fresh mango juice as the base, combined with gelatin or agar-agar to achieve the desired texture. With each spoonful, you’ll experience the vibrant and zesty taste of fresh mangoes.
Almond Cookies
Almond cookies are a beloved Chinese sweet treat that is often served on special occasions, such as Chinese New Year. These delicate cookies have a sandy and crumbly texture, with a subtle almond flavor that is simply irresistible. They are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee.
Coconut Jelly
Coconut jelly, also known as coconut milk jelly, is a light and refreshing dessert that provides a taste of tropical bliss. Made from coconut milk and gelatin, it has a smooth and silky texture that melts in your mouth. There are a few different variations of coconut jelly worth exploring:
Coconut Milk Jelly
Coconut milk jelly is the classic variation, made from a mixture of coconut milk, sugar, and gelatin. It offers a delicate coconut flavor that is both soothing and indulgent. The lightness of the jelly makes it a perfect dessert to enjoy after a hearty meal.
Crystal Coconut Jelly
Crystal coconut jelly is a visually stunning variation that captivates with its transparent appearance. This jelly is made from coconut water and agar-agar, resulting in a crystal-clear dessert that resembles a piece of art. With its light and refreshing taste, crystal coconut jelly is a true palate cleanser.
With this comprehensive guide to popular Chinese desserts and sweets, you now have a treasure trove of delectable treats waiting to be savored. Whether you’re craving the comforting sweetness of mooncakes, the vibrant flavors of mango pudding, or the delicate textures of sesame balls, Chinese cuisine has something to satisfy every dessert lover. So go ahead and indulge your taste buds in these delightful delicacies, and discover the incredible world of Chinese sweets!
