Discover the sweet side of China with these 16 delicious and authentic Chinese dessert recipes! From classic treats like Egg Tarts and Mooncake, to unique flavors like Pumpkin Cake and Green Tea Ice Cream, there’s something for every sweet tooth. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best of Chinese desserts, each one showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and love of all things sugary.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a show-stopping dessert to impress your friends and family, these recipes are sure to satisfy. So go ahead, indulge in the sweet life with us!
Red Bean Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Red Bean Soup, made with tender red beans and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
5. Add the soaked red beans, vegetable broth, water, tomato paste, and brown sugar.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Mango Pudding
Sweeten your day with this creamy and refreshing Mango Pudding recipe! Made with fresh mango puree, milk, and a touch of sugar, this dessert is perfect for warm weather or any time you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the mango until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the mango puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Sesame Balls
These crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside sesame balls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and sesame seeds.
2. Add salt and mix well.
3. Gradually add in the sugar and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add in the water and mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
6. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
8. Fry the sesame balls in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
9. Drain excess oil and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Egg Tarts
A classic Portuguese-inspired dessert, Egg Tarts are a sweet and creamy delight that combines flaky pastry with a rich egg custard filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut out circles of pastry using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, heavy cream, and salt until smooth.
5. Place a spoonful of egg custard mixture onto one half of each pastry circle, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges to seal.
7. Place tarts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Allow tarts to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Taro Paste
This sweet and nutty paste is a traditional Japanese condiment made from taro roots, perfect for serving with rice or as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables. With its rich, caramel-like flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large taro roots (about 1 lb)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Peel and cut the taro roots into small pieces.
2. Boil the taro in a large pot of water until tender, about 30 minutes.
3. Drain the taro and mash it with a fork or potato masher.
4. Combine the sugar, water, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns caramel-colored, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Add the mashed taro to the saucepan and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the paste has thickened and darkened in color.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Sweet Taro Paste!
Almond Jelly
A delicate and refreshing dessert, Almond Jelly is a perfect treat for warm weather. This easy-to-make recipe combines the subtle flavor of almonds with the sweetness of sugar and the clarity of gelatin.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and softened gelatin. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the sliced almonds and almond extract (if using).
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe does not require cooking. Simply refrigerate until set.
Black Sesame Tangyuan
Tangyuan, a traditional Chinese dessert, gets a boost of flavor and nutrition with the addition of black sesame seeds. These chewy balls are perfect for warm weather or any time you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup black sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Mix the glutinous rice flour and water in a large bowl until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly and place a few black sesame seeds in the center.
5. Fold the dough over the seeds to form a ball shape, making sure to seal the edges well.
6. Repeat with the remaining dough and seeds.
7. Cook the tangyuan in boiling water for about 30 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pumpkin Cake
A classic fall dessert, this pumpkin cake recipe yields a deliciously moist and flavorful treat perfect for snacking or serving to guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, pumpkin puree, and butter. Beat until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lychee Jelly
This refreshing jelly is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses. With its sweet and tangy flavor profile, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lychees, pitted
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. Combine lychees and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids.
3. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, lemon juice, and pectin. Whisk until pectin is dissolved.
4. Add the sugar mixture to the lychee liquid and bring to a boil over high heat.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until jelly has thickened.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Tapioca Pudding
A creamy and tropical dessert that combines the smoothness of tapioca pudding with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tapioca pearls (small ones work best)
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the tapioca pearls in cold water, then soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked tapioca again.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the drained tapioca to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Steamed Sponge Cake
Discover the joy of steaming your sponge cake instead of baking it! This method produces a tender, moist, and delightfully airy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
3. Sift in the flour and salt; gently fold until just combined.
4. Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan or a silicone cupcake mold.
5. Place the cake pan or molds on the steamer’s steam tray, making sure they’re not touching any water.
6. Steam for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is cooked through and springs back when touched.
7. Remove from heat; let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mooncake
Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with this classic Chinese pastry, filled with sweet lotus seed paste and wrapped in a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup lotus seed paste (see note)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Mix flour and oil to form a dough.
3. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide into small portions.
5. Flatten each portion, then place 1 tablespoon of lotus seed paste in center.
6. Fold and press edges to seal.
7. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Note: Lotus seed paste can be found at Asian grocery stores or online. You can also substitute with a combination of ground nuts and sugar, but the authentic taste may vary.
Fried Milk
Get ready to revolutionize your breakfast game with this unique and delicious Fried Milk recipe! This sweet treat is perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture reaches 180°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature or refrigerate overnight.
3. Once cooled, pour the milk mixture into a shallow dish or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. When ready to fry, heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F.
6. Using a spoon, drop the chilled milk mixture into the hot oil, forming small balls or shapes.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 4-6 minutes total frying time
Sweet Rice Balls in Ginger Soup
Sweet Rice Balls in Ginger Soup Recipe
A classic Chinese comfort food, sweet rice balls (also known as tangyuan) are typically served in a warm ginger soup during the Lunar New Year. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making these tender and flavorful treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Ginger Soup ingredients:
+ 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
+ 4 cups chicken broth
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, glutinous rice flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the rice balls until they’re golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Strain the ginger soup ingredients through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the ginger slices.
7. Serve the fried rice balls in the warm ginger soup.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Walnut Cookies
These soft and chewy walnut cookies are perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift for friends and family. With the added crunch of chopped walnuts, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Green Tea Ice Cream
Experience the refreshing flavor of Japan with this unique green tea ice cream recipe. This creamy and subtle dessert is perfect for warm weather or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup matcha powder (green tea powder)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the matcha powder and vanilla extract. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into a clean container and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Freeze the ice cream for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (steeping time) + chilling time
Conclusion
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 16 delicious Chinese dessert recipes! From classic favorites like Red Bean Soup and Mango Pudding to innovative treats like Sesame Balls and Pumpkin Cake, there’s something for every taste. Discover how to make Sweet Taro Paste, Almond Jelly, Black Sesame Tangyuan, Lychee Jelly, Coconut Tapioca Pudding, Steamed Sponge Cake, Mooncake, Fried Milk, Sweet Rice Balls in Ginger Soup, and more. These traditional and modern desserts are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
