Discover the sweet side of China with these 18 mouthwatering dessert recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. From traditional treats like red bean soup and steamed egg custard buns, to modern twists like mango pomelo sago dessert and peanut dumplings in ginger syrup, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these authentic Chinese desserts are easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Plus, they’re perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of day.
So why wait? Dive into the world of Chinese desserts with us and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that will leave you wanting more.
Red Bean Soup with Glutinous Rice Balls
This traditional Chinese dessert soup is a perfect remedy for a chilly day, combining the sweetness of red beans with the chewy texture of glutinous rice balls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried azuki beans
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the red beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine the soaked red beans, sugar, and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the glutinous rice balls by mixing together the glutinous rice flour and 1/4 cup of water in a small bowl. Knead the mixture into a dough and divide it into small portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
4. Once the soup is ready, add the vegetable oil and glutinous rice balls to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the rice balls are cooked through.
5. Season with salt to taste, then serve warm.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Steamed Egg Custard Buns
These soft and fluffy buns are filled with a creamy egg custard, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup egg custard filling (see note)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough, kneading for 10 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces, shape each piece into a ball, and flatten slightly.
4. Place a spoonful of egg custard filling in the center of each piece, fold the dough over to form a bun, and seal edges by pressing with fingers.
5. Steam buns over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Note: Egg custard filling can be made by whisking together 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup milk in a bowl until smooth.
Mango Pomelo Sago Dessert
Mango Pomelo Sago Dessert: A Refreshing Tropical Treat
This sweet and tangy dessert combines the natural sweetness of mangoes with the juiciness of pomelos, all wrapped up in a creamy sago pudding. It’s a perfect treat for warm weather or anytime you need a taste of sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sago
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup mango puree
– 1/4 cup pomelo juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sago and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and cook according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar, mango puree, pomelo juice, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the cooked sago to the saucepan and stir well.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Stir in honey until dissolved.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Black Sesame Tangyuan
Tangyuan, a type of glutinous rice ball, is a popular Chinese dessert during the Lantern Festival. This recipe adds a nutty twist by incorporating black sesame seeds into the dough.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup black sesame seeds
– Fresh fruit or red bean paste for filling (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add in water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly and place a spoonful of filling (if using).
5. Fold the dough over the filling to seal the tangyuan.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the tangyuan until they float to the surface.
7. Remove the tangyuan from the oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your Black Sesame Tangyuan with a cup of hot tea or as a sweet treat any time of the year!
Almond Tofu with Lychee
This unique dessert combines the creamy texture of tofu with the crunch of almonds and the sweetness of lychees. Perfect for a warm evening or as a refreshing treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 can of lychees in syrup, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crumbled tofu, sliced almonds, honey, soy sauce, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. While the tofu is baking, mix chopped lychees with a pinch of salt and set aside.
5. Remove the tofu from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with the chopped lychees and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Taro and Coconut Milk Soup
A creamy and comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of taro with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium taros, peeled and diced
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the diced taro, vegetable broth, and grated ginger.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the taro is tender.
3. Stir in the coconut milk and salt. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Osmanthus Jelly with Goji Berries
This unique jelly combines the floral sweetness of osmanthus with the nutty flavor of goji berries, creating a one-of-a-kind dessert perfect for adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup osmanthus flowers
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup goji berries, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine osmanthus flowers and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard solids.
3. Add sugar, honey, and lemon juice to the osmanthus liquid. Whisk until dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in goji berries and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they’ve rehydrated.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before straining through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Pineapple Buns with Butter Filling
These soft and fluffy pineapple buns are filled with a rich buttery surprise, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– Butter filling ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
+ 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, sugar, and salt to the mixture. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in melted butter, pineapple chunks, and orange zest.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread with softened butter and granulated sugar.
6. Roll the dough into logs and cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Sponge Cake (Ma Lai Go)
This classic Cantonese dessert is a must-try during special occasions and gatherings. With its moist and fluffy texture, it’s sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vegetable oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 6-inch round cake pan.
6. Steam for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Milk Custard Squares
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these crispy and creamy Fried Milk Custard Squares, a delightful twist on traditional custard. Perfect for dessert or as a snack, they’re sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or pan and refrigerate until chilled (at least 2 hours).
5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form the custard mixture into squares.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the squares for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain excess oil and dust with powdered sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes per batch
Peanut Dumplings in Ginger Syrup
Experience the harmonious fusion of peanutty goodness and spicy sweetness with these delectable dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Ginger Syrup:
+ 1 cup water
+ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
+ 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, milk, and egg. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry dumplings for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain dumplings on paper towels. Serve with Ginger Syrup (see below).
Ginger Syrup:
1. Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Add grated ginger and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Strain syrup before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Egg Tart with Flaky Pastry
This recipe yields a flaky, buttery pastry crust filled with a creamy egg custard. Perfect for brunch or dessert, this traditional Portuguese tart is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dough until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and salt.
7. Pour egg mixture into the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
8. Fold edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
9. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sweet Soy Milk Pudding
A creamy and subtly sweet dessert that combines the richness of soy milk with the comfort of a warm pudding. Perfect for a quick treat or as a unique addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soy milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together soy milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes
These traditional Chinese mooncakes are filled with a sweet and nutty lotus seed paste, perfect for the Mid-Autumn Festival or as a delightful dessert any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup lotus seed paste
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and lotus seed paste.
3. Add sugar, oil, eggs, baking powder, and salt; mix until a dough forms.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
6. Flatten each ball into a disk shape and place a spoonful of lotus seed paste in the center.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges to seal.
8. Place mooncakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch space between each cake.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pandan Chiffon Cake
This Malaysian-inspired dessert combines the subtle flavor of pandan with the light and airy texture of a chiffon cake, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup pandan extract
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add pandan extract, milk, and flour mixture. Beat until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Winter Melon and Barley Dessert Soup
Winter Melon and Barley Dessert Soup: A warm and comforting dessert soup perfect for cold winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 small Winter Melon (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup of pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups of water or low-fat milk
– 1/4 cup of sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the Winter Melon cubes, pearl barley, water or milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the melon is tender and the barley is cooked.
3. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fried Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)
A classic Chinese dessert, Fried Sesame Balls are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, with a nutty sesame flavor. Perfect for snacking or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and vegetable oil. Mix 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 1 inch in diameter.
4. Roll each ball into a spherical shape and flatten slightly into a disk.
5. Dredge the flattened dough disks in granulated sugar, then sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Fry the sesame balls in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Double Skin Milk Pudding
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this creamy pudding is made with milk and a touch of gelatin to give it a silky smooth texture. This simple recipe yields a deliciously rich and velvety pudding that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and softened gelatin. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and set.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Discover the delicious world of Chinese desserts with these 18 authentic recipes. From classic treats like steamed egg custard buns and sweet taro soup to creative combinations like almond tofu with lychee, there’s something for every taste bud. Try making red bean soup with glutinous rice balls or black sesame tangyuan, a traditional Chinese dessert eaten during the Lantern Festival. These recipes showcase the diversity of Chinese desserts, from sweet and sticky to light and refreshing. Get ready to indulge in these mouthwatering treats!
