Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy desserts featuring one of Asia’s most beloved ingredients: taro! With its nutty, slightly sweet flavor and vibrant purple color, taro adds a unique twist to traditional desserts. From classic puddings to modern twists on bubble tea, we’ve rounded up 20 creamy taro dessert recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of tropical flavors or classic combinations, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of taro desserts, highlighting popular recipes like Taro Coconut Milk Pudding and Taro Mochi. We’ll also explore creative combinations that blend taro with other ingredients, such as Taro Bubble Tea and Taro Cheesecake.
Stay tuned for a delicious adventure that will leave you craving more!
Taro Coconut Milk Pudding
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of taro with the richness of coconut milk, resulting in a creamy and refreshing pudding perfect for warm weather. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this unique dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine taro puree, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Purple Taro Mochi
Mochi, a traditional Japanese rice cake, gets a vibrant twist with the addition of purple taro. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of taro with the chewy texture of glutinous rice flour, resulting in a delightful treat that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked purple taro, mashed
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– Food coloring (optional)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed taro, rice flour, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the water while kneading the mixture until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk shape.
6. Cook the mochi in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Remove from water, dust with confectioner’s sugar, and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taro Bubble Tea
Get ready to quench your thirst with this refreshing Taro Bubble Tea! This unique flavor combines the sweetness of taro with chewy boba and a hint of milk tea.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup brewed green tea (cooled)
– 1/2 cup taro powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup evaporated milk
– 1 cup boba pearls
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Brew the green tea according to package instructions and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the taro powder and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the cooled green tea to the taro mixture and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the evaporated milk while whisking continuously.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
6. Pour the Taro Bubble Tea mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
7. Add boba pearls on top.
Cooking Time: None (just assemble and serve!)
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Taro Bubble Tea!
Taro Ice Cream
This recipe combines the sweet and nutty flavor of taro with creamy ice cream, creating a one-of-a-kind dessert perfect for adventurous eaters. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this exotic treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup taro puree
– 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 taro puree and vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 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. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Taro Cheesecake
Experience the unique flavor of taro in this creamy cheesecake, perfect for adventurous bakers and fans of exotic ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup taro puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by sugar, taro puree, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust and smooth top.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Taro Mousse Cake
A rich and creamy dessert featuring the unique flavor of taro, topped with a velvety mousse and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 8 ounces heavy cream
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together taro puree, granulated sugar, and kosher salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
4. In another bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Gradually add vanilla extract and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the taro mixture until smooth. Gently fold in the egg whites until well combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before topping with whipped cream mousse (recipe not included).
8. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Taro Sweet Soup with Sago
This comforting Taro Sweet Soup with Sago is a classic Southeast Asian dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy taro puree, sweet coconut milk, and chewy sago pearls, this soup is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 large taro root, peeled and chopped
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup sago (tapioca pearls)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped taro in water until tender. Drain and puree in a blender.
2. In a large pot, combine the taro puree, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Add the sago pearls and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taro Sticky Rice Balls
These chewy and flavorful rice balls are a popular snack in many Asian cultures. Made with glutinous rice, taro, and coconut milk, they’re perfect for on-the-go or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice
– 1/2 cup cooked taro, mashed
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and cook according to package instructions.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, mashed taro, coconut milk, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Knead the mixture until it forms a sticky dough.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
5. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Fry the rice balls until they’re golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taro Custard Tart
Taro Custard Tart Recipe
This sweet and savory tart combines the creamy richness of taro custard with a flaky pastry crust, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups taro puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together taro puree, heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the custard mixture into the prepared tart shell.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Taro Pancakes with Honey Drizzle
Start your day with a sweet and savory twist on traditional pancakes using the nutty flavor of taro.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Honey, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together taro puree, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Taro Chiffon Cake
Elevate your baking game with this unique Taro Chiffon Cake recipe! This moist and airy cake is infused with the subtle sweetness of taro, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup taro puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, taro puree, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
4. Gradually pour melted butter into the egg mixture while beating continuously.
5. Fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until no streaks remain.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Taro Red Bean Pastry
Delight your taste buds with this traditional East Asian dessert, combining the natural sweetness of taro and red beans with flaky pastry. This simple yet elegant pastry is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 cup taro puree
– 1/2 cup cooked red beans (adzuki)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and oil to form a dough.
2. Gradually add water while kneading the dough until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Place a tablespoon of taro puree and red beans in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the pastry over the filling, forming a triangle or square shape.
7. Seal edges with a fork and brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taro Coconut Jelly
A refreshing dessert that combines the natural sweetness of taro with the creaminess of coconut, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup taro puree
• 1 can full-fat coconut milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon agar agar powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine taro puree, coconut milk, sugar, agar agar powder, and salt.
2. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the jelly has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour the jelly into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until chilled and set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Taro Fried Sesame Balls
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and savory Taro Fried Sesame Balls!
Ingredients:
– 2 large taro roots, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed taro, flour, and sesame seeds.
2. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Fry the taro balls for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Taro Milk Shake
A refreshing twist on traditional milkshakes, this Taro Milk Shake combines the natural sweetness of taro with creamy milk and a hint of tropical flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen taro puree
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
– Whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen taro puree, vanilla ice cream, and milk.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Garnish with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Taro Butter Cookies
These sweet and savory cookies combine the natural sweetness of taro with the richness of butter, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup taro puree
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and taro puree until smooth.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes and place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Taro Layer Cake
This recipe creates a moist and flavorful cake with a unique taro twist. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup taro puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter, taro puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 75-90 minutes (3 layers)
Taro Dumplings in Ginger Syrup
Experience the delightful fusion of Japanese and Southeast Asian flavors with these Taro Dumplings cooked to perfection in a fragrant Ginger Syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro, peeled and grated
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup ginger syrup (see below)
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Ginger Syrup:
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine taro, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add vegetable oil and water to form a dough.
3. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide into 8-10 portions and shape each into a ball.
5. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 10 minutes, then drain.
6. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and ginger slices.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
8. Add cooked dumplings to the syrup and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Serve warm, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taro Almond Pudding
This traditional Hawaiian dessert combines the natural sweetness of taro with the nutty flavor of almonds, resulting in a rich and creamy pudding perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine taro puree, sugar, melted butter, and heavy cream.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in egg, vanilla extract, and salt.
6. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
7. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
9. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taro Chocolate Truffles
Taro Chocolate Truffles Recipe
Summary: Experience the unique fusion of taro’s nutty flavor and rich chocolate in these bite-sized truffles, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro paste
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine taro paste, butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add cocoa powder and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). You should end up with around 20-25 truffles.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Dip each taro ball into melted chocolate, coating completely.
7. Place truffles on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembling is a matter of rolling and dipping)
Total Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes (including chilling time)
Summary
Indulge in the creamy and delicious world of taro desserts! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of taro as a sweet treat. From classic pudding to innovative mochi, bubble tea, ice cream, cheesecake, and more, these desserts are sure to satisfy your cravings. With unique flavor combinations and textures, you’ll discover new ways to enjoy this popular ingredient. Whether you’re looking for a traditional dessert or something modern and trendy, this collection has something for everyone.
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.
