What are the most popular desserts in Asia? Growing up, I always thought desserts had to be frosted, baked, or come with sprinkles. But everything changed the day my mom and I stumbled on a tiny Thai market stand that sold sticky rice with mango. It was warm, coconut-creamy, and nothing like anything I’d ever tasted—and it felt like home in a totally new language.
That moment sparked a curiosity I’ve carried ever since: What else is out there?
If you’ve ever wondered what are the most popular desserts in Asia, you’re in for a delicious journey. These 11 desserts are not only loved across their countries—they’re simple, fun, and surprisingly easy to enjoy at home.
If you’re curious about sweets beyond Asia, don’t miss our guide to the 9 Most Common Desserts—they’re fast, easy, and perfect for beginners.
Table of Contents
What Are the Most Popular Desserts in Asia?
Here’s a roundup of 11 beloved Asian desserts that have stood the test of time—and taste.
1. Mochi (Japan)
Soft, chewy rice cakes often filled with red bean, matcha, or ice cream.
💡 Try it cold or grilled with sweet soy glaze!
2. Mango Sticky Rice (Thailand)
Warm coconut sticky rice topped with fresh mango and sesame.
💡 Sweet, creamy, and tropical—no oven required!
3. Gulab Jamun (India)
Deep-fried dough balls soaked in cardamom sugar syrup.
💡 Rich and syrupy—perfect for special occasions.
4. Halo-Halo (Philippines)
A colorful shaved ice dessert with fruits, jellies, beans, and leche flan.
💡 Refreshing and customizable!
5. Tang Yuan (China)
Glutinous rice balls filled with sesame or peanut paste, served in warm syrup.
💡 Traditionally enjoyed during celebrations.
Tang yuan is one of the most beloved Chinese desserts—warm, chewy, and full of tradition. Want more? Check out our full guide on What Are Common Chinese Desserts for more beginner-friendly treats!
6. Khanom Chan (Thailand)
Layered coconut and pandan jelly steamed to silky perfection.
💡 Vegan-friendly and beautiful in color!
7. Dadar Gulung (Indonesia)
Bright green coconut pancakes rolled with palm sugar coconut filling.
💡 A street food classic with soft, sweet layers.
8. Bánh Flan (Vietnam)
A creamy caramel custard, similar to crème caramel.
💡 Often served chilled with crushed ice.
9. Black Sesame Soup (China)
A smooth, sweet, slightly nutty dessert soup.
💡 Warm, comforting, and easy to make in a blender!
10. Red Bean Ice (Hong Kong)
Icy drink/dessert made with sweetened red beans, milk, and shaved ice.
💡 A classic found in most Hong Kong dessert cafés.
11. Kuih Lapis (Malaysia)
Colorful steamed rice flour jelly with layers you can peel apart.
💡 Fun for kids and nostalgic for many adults.
Why Asian Desserts Are So Unique (And Lovely)
Asian desserts aren’t always about sugar or frosting. Many are made with:
- ✅ Coconut milk, rice flour, or mung beans
- ✅ Less processed sugar
- ✅ Steaming or chilling instead of baking
- ✅ Natural color from matcha, pandan, or ube
They’re often light, nourishing, and full of tradition—which makes them not only sweet but meaningful too.
💬 FAQ
Q: Are Asian desserts hard to make?
A: Not at all! Many only require steaming, chilling, or mixing—no oven needed.
Q: Where can I buy ingredients like glutinous rice flour or pandan?
A: Look for Asian grocery stores or order online through trusted retailers.
Q: Which dessert is best for beginners?
A: Mango sticky rice, mochi, and Bánh Flan are super simple and require minimal tools.
Hi, I’m Sophia Olivia. I created Cuddle Recipes to share the simple joy I found in cooking with my mom—quick, effortless, and joyful. These Asian desserts remind me that sweetness is a feeling, not just a flavor. Let’s bring more joy to the table—one spoonful at a time.
What Are the Most Popular Desserts in Asia?
Ingredients
- Mochi (Japan)
- Mango Sticky Rice (Thailand)
- Gulab Jamun (India)
- Halo-Halo (Philippines)
- Tang Yuan (China)
- Khanom Chan (Thailand)
- Dadar Gulung (Indonesia)
- Bánh Flan (Vietnam)
- Black Sesame Soup (China)
- Red Bean Ice (Hong Kong)
- Kuih Lapis (Malaysia
Instructions
- Choose a dessert from the list based on your taste or curiosity.
- Find ingredients like glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, or pandan—available in most Asian markets or online.
- Most desserts can be made using basic cooking methods: steaming, chilling, or frying.
- Serve fresh, warm, or cold depending on the dessert style.