Authentic Chinese Dessert Recipes: 14 Traditional Sweet Treats to Make at Home | From Red Bean Buns to Egg Tarts 🥮 Master the art of Chinese dessert-making with these time-tested recipes that combine traditional techniques with easy-to-find ingredients! Discover how to create restaurant-quality favorites like silky egg custard tarts, sweet rice balls (tangyuan), fluffy steamed buns filled with red bean paste, creamy mango pudding, and crispy sesame balls. Perfect for Chinese New Year celebrations, dim sum parties, or exploring Asian cuisine at home. Each recipe includes tips from Chinese home cooks, ingredient substitutions, and step-by-step photos. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced baker, these foolproof recipes will help you recreate beloved Chinese desserts in your own kitchen. Learn essential techniques like working with glutinous rice flour, perfecting sweet soups, and mastering the art of steamed desserts. All recipes tested and approved by Chinese food experts
Red Bean Soup
Red bean soup is a comforting dessert that showcases the sweetness of adzuki beans, commonly used in traditional Chinese desserts. This simple yet delicious treat has a subtle sweetness and a smooth, creamy texture that makes it perfect for any occasion. It’s often served warm and can be enjoyed on its own or with a dollop of coconut cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Making red bean soup at home is quite easy and requires just a few ingredients. This delightful soup is a favorite among many, especially during festive occasions. Whether it’s a cool evening or a hot day, this classic Chinese sweet offers a unique taste that warms the heart. Enjoy it as part of your Chinese New Year desserts or simply as a comforting treat any time of year!
Ingredients
- 1 cup adzuki beans
- 6 cups water
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon coconut milk (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the adzuki beans under cold water and soak them in water for about 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Drain the beans and place them in a pot with 6 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
- Add sugar and salt to the pot, stirring gently. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
- Serve warm, drizzled with coconut milk if desired.
Almond Jelly
Almond jelly, known as “Almond Tofu” in Chinese cuisine, is a delightful dessert that’s light and refreshing. It has a subtle almond flavor that perfectly balances sweetness and creaminess. This dessert is not only easy to make but also a stunning addition to any meal or celebration, making it a must-try among traditional Chinese pastries.
Often served with fresh fruits or syrup, almond jelly is a hit for its silky texture and the way it cools the palate. It’s an ideal choice for warm days or festive occasions like the Chinese New Year. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned cook, this simple Chinese dessert recipe will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Fresh fruits (like strawberries and blueberries) for serving
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine water and agar-agar. Bring to a boil while stirring continuously until dissolved.
- Add the almond milk and sugar, stirring until well mixed. Remove from heat and add the almond extract.
- Pour the mixture into a mold or individual cups and let it cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set. Cut into cubes before serving.
- Serve with fresh fruits or a drizzle of syrup for added sweetness.
Mango Sticky Rice
Mango Sticky Rice is a delightful Thai-inspired dessert that has gained popularity in many Chinese regions as well. This dish combines sweet, glutinous rice with ripe, juicy mango slices, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The sticky rice is often drizzled with coconut milk, adding a creamy richness that complements the freshness of the mango. It’s a simple dessert that’s easy to whip up, making it a favorite among quick Chinese desserts.
This dessert is not just delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for festive occasions or casual gatherings. The combination of sweet and creamy elements, along with the vibrant color of the mango, makes this an irresistible treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Here’s how to make this popular dessert at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice
- 1 1/2 cups coconut milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
- Sesame seeds or mung beans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the glutinous rice until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Drain the rice and steam it in a bamboo or metal steamer for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
- In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of coconut milk with sugar and salt until the sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
- Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and mix in the coconut milk mixture. Let it sit for about 20-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- To serve, place a portion of sticky rice on a plate, add mango slices on the side, and drizzle with remaining coconut milk. Garnish with sesame seeds or mung beans if desired.
Sesame Balls
Sesame balls, or ‘Jian Dui’, are a delightful treat that combines a crispy exterior with a chewy, sweet interior. These golden orbs are coated in sesame seeds, giving them a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. Inside, they often hold sweet fillings like red bean paste or lotus seed paste, making them a popular choice for dessert lovers. While they might seem fancy, the recipe is relatively simple and perfect for home cooks looking to impress at festive gatherings.
These treats are among the most famous Chinese desserts, especially enjoyed during celebrations like the Chinese Lantern Festival. Their unique texture and taste make them a hit among both kids and adults. Plus, they’re a great way to explore making homemade Chinese treats that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup red bean paste (or preferred filling)
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix glutinous rice flour and sugar. Gradually add water, stirring to form a smooth dough.
- Shape the Balls: Take a small portion of dough, flatten it, place a teaspoon of red bean paste in the center, and fold the dough around it to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Coat with Sesame Seeds: Roll each ball in sesame seeds until fully coated.
- Fry the Balls: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the sesame balls until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes, turning them to ensure even cooking.
- Drain and Cool: Remove the balls from the oil and drain on paper towels. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Egg Yolk Pastries
Egg yolk pastries are a delightful treat that perfectly combines a buttery crust with a smooth, rich filling. These pastries are commonly enjoyed during festive occasions, making them a popular choice for Chinese New Year celebrations. Their sweet and slightly savory flavor profile makes them a hit among both kids and adults.
Making these pastries at home is a fun and simple process that anyone can master. The flaky pastry envelops a luscious egg yolk filling, creating a bite-sized dessert that is both indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea, these pastries are a must-try when exploring classic Chinese sweets.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Gradually add cold water until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling: In another bowl, mix egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Roll Out the Dough: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick and cut into circles.
- Assemble: Place a tablespoon of the egg yolk filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges over to create a small pocket, sealing tightly.
- Bake: Place the pastries on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Mooncakes
Mooncakes are a quintessential treat during the Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated with family and friends. These round pastries have a rich, thick filling and a tender, flaky crust that melts in your mouth. Traditionally filled with lotus seed paste or red bean paste, they can also contain salted egg yolks for an added flavor punch. Making mooncakes can be a fun project, especially when you want to impress your guests with something homemade and authentic.
The taste of mooncakes is a delightful blend of sweetness and nuttiness, making them perfect paired with a cup of tea. While the process might seem a bit involved, following a simple mooncake recipe can lead to impressive results. Plus, once you get the hang of it, you can customize the fillings to suit your taste. Here’s an easy mooncakes recipe to get you started:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup golden syrup
- 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon alkaline water
- 1 cup lotus seed paste (or your preferred filling)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salted egg yolks (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, golden syrup, lard, and alkaline water. Knead until smooth and let it rest for about 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: Divide the lotus seed paste into equal portions, rolling each piece into a ball. If using, place a salted egg yolk in the center of each ball.
- Shape the Mooncakes: Divide the dough into equal parts, then flatten each piece. Wrap the dough around the filling and mold it into a round shape. Use a mooncake mold to create designs.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the mooncakes on a baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the mooncakes to cool completely before serving. They taste even better after resting for a day to let the flavors meld.
Egg Tarts
Egg tarts are a delightful treat, showcasing a smooth and creamy custard filling nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. These sweet pastries are popular in Chinese cuisine and are loved for their light texture and rich flavor. Perfect for dessert or an afternoon snack, they are surprisingly simple to make at home.
The balance of sweetness and richness makes egg tarts one of those must-try Chinese desserts that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in a sweet treat, this recipe will not disappoint.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, softened butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly. Add egg yolk and cold water, and knead until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, and sugar over medium heat until warm. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the egg mixture, stirring constantly.
- Roll Out the Dough: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut circles to fit into a muffin tin. Press the dough into the tin.
- Fill the Tarts: Pour the custard filling into each tart shell, filling just below the rim.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the custard is set and the tops are lightly browned. Let cool before serving.
Mochi Ice Cream
Mochi ice cream is a delightful fusion of chewy mochi and creamy ice cream. This treat combines the best of both worlds, offering a soft, sweet outer layer with a refreshing cold center. It’s a fun dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make at home, and the flavor possibilities are nearly endless!
With its unique texture and taste, mochi ice cream has become a must-try among popular Chinese festival desserts. Whether you’re looking for an easy Chinese dessert to impress guests or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is a fantastic choice.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sweet rice flour (mochi flour)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (for dusting)
- 1 pint of your favorite ice cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Mochi Dough: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the sweet rice flour, sugar, and water. Mix well until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave for 1 minute. Stir, then microwave for another minute. Stir again, then microwave for a final minute until the mixture becomes sticky and translucent.
- Cool the Dough: Dust a clean surface with cornstarch. Pour the mochi dough onto the surface and sprinkle more cornstarch on top. Let it cool slightly until it’s manageable.
- Shape the Mochi: Once cool, divide the dough into equal pieces (about 1.5 inches each). Flatten each piece in your hand and place a small scoop of ice cream in the center. Carefully fold the edges over the ice cream and pinch to seal, forming a ball.
- Freeze: Place the mochi ice cream balls on a tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Serve: Dust off any excess cornstarch before serving. Enjoy your homemade mochi ice cream!
Lychee Sorbet
Lychee sorbet is a refreshing dessert that captures the sweet, floral notes of lychee fruit in a cool, icy treat. It’s light, fruity, and the perfect way to end a meal, especially on warm days. This dessert is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great choice for your next gathering or just a treat for yourself.
The unique taste of lychee, with its juicy texture and sweet flavor, shines through in this sorbet. It’s a delightful option among the best Chinese desserts, often enjoyed during festive occasions or as a palate cleanser. Plus, making it at home means you’ll have control over the sweetness and ingredients, ensuring a perfect balance. Let’s get to the recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh lychee, peeled and pitted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool.
- Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the lychee, cooled simple syrup, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
- Chill the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture into a shallow container and freeze for about 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches a sorbet-like consistency.
- Serve: Once the sorbet is firm and fluffy, scoop it into bowls and enjoy!
Coconut Sticky Rice
Coconut Sticky Rice is a delightful dessert that showcases the wonderful flavors of glutinous rice paired with creamy coconut milk. This dish is slightly sweet and has a chewy texture that makes it utterly satisfying. It’s a simple recipe that’s perfect for both casual gatherings and festive occasions.
This dessert is often enjoyed with fruits or as a base for other traditional Chinese sweets, making it a versatile choice for those looking to explore easy Chinese desserts. Whether served warm or chilled, Coconut Sticky Rice is a must-try for anyone wanting to indulge in authentic Chinese flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh mango or other fruits (for serving)
Instructions
- Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Drain the soaked rice and steam it in a bamboo or metal steamer for about 30-40 minutes until tender.
- In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, but do not let it boil.
- Once the rice is done, transfer it to a mixing bowl and pour about two-thirds of the coconut milk mixture over it. Stir gently to combine. Let it rest for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve the sticky rice warm or at room temperature, drizzling the remaining coconut milk mixture on top. Add fresh mango or your favorite fruits for a delicious finish.
Steamed Sponge Cake
Steamed sponge cake is a fluffy and light dessert that melts in your mouth. This treat is slightly sweet with a delicate texture, making it a favorite among many. It’s surprisingly simple to make, and you don’t need an oven—just a steamer!
Perfect for celebrating special occasions or just satisfying a sweet tooth, this cake is often served during various Chinese festivals. As you explore how to make Chinese desserts, this steamed sponge cake is a must-try option that embodies the essence of traditional Chinese pastries.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 100g granulated sugar
- 100g all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until they become light and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gently fold it into the egg mixture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Slowly add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract into the batter, folding carefully to maintain the airiness.
- Prepare the Steamer: Fill your steamer with water and bring it to a boil. Line a round cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Steam the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and place it in the steamer. Cover and steam for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Once cooked, let the cake cool for a few minutes before removing it from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and enjoy!
Chinese Rice Pudding
Chinese rice pudding is a creamy and delightful dessert that offers a comforting taste of tradition. It features glutinous rice, which gives it a wonderfully sticky texture, and is often flavored with sweeteners like sugar and coconut milk. This easy Chinese dessert is not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore traditional Chinese desserts.
This pudding can be enjoyed warm or chilled and can be topped with a variety of ingredients like nuts, fruits, or even sweet red bean paste. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a favorite among quick Chinese desserts, perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Chopped nuts or fruits for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Drain the soaked rice and place it in a pot with 2 cups of fresh water. Cook over medium heat until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Top with your choice of chopped nuts or fruits if desired.
Peanut Candy
Peanut candy is a delightful treat that captures the essence of traditional Chinese desserts. With its sweet and nutty flavor, this candy is both satisfying and easy to make, perfect for sharing with family and friends. The combination of crunchy peanuts and a sweet, chewy base makes it a must-try for those looking to explore famous Chinese desserts.
Making this candy is a straightforward process that doesn’t require any fancy equipment. It’s a fun project that can be completed in a short amount of time, making it ideal for quick Chinese desserts or festive Asian desserts. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, peanut candy will surely hit the spot!
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw peanuts
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanuts: Roast the peanuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Let them cool and then chop coarsely.
- Make the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil without stirring.
- Check the Temperature: Using a candy thermometer, cook the syrup until it reaches 250°F (121°C). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Quickly add the chopped peanuts to the syrup and stir well to coat.
- Shape the Candy: Pour the mixture onto a greased baking sheet. Spread it out evenly and let it cool for about 30 minutes. Once set, cut into squares.
Sweet Tofu Pudding
Sweet Tofu Pudding, or Douhua, is a delightful dessert that’s simple to whip up at home. This dish has a silky-smooth texture and a subtly sweet flavor that makes it a comforting choice for any occasion. Often served warm or chilled, it’s a favorite among many and can easily be customized with various toppings.
This dessert is not only light and refreshing, but it’s also a great canvas for flavors. You can top it with fruits, sweet syrups, or even red bean paste for an authentic touch. Whether you’re celebrating Chinese New Year or just looking for some quick Chinese desserts, Sweet Tofu Pudding is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 1 cup silken tofu
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fruit toppings (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, mango)
- Honey or syrup for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Gently heat the silken tofu in a pot until warm but not boiling. Stir in sugar until dissolved.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of water until smooth. Add it to the warmed tofu mixture, stirring continuously until it thickens slightly.
- Chill: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool. Transfer it to serving bowls and refrigerate until set, about 1-2 hours.
- Add Toppings: Once chilled, top with your choice of fresh fruits and a drizzle of honey or syrup before serving.
Bring Authentic Chinese Desserts to Your Home
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Chinese desserts offer an amazing variety of textures, flavors, and ingredients. Whether you’re whipping up creamy coconut pudding, rolling sesame balls, or indulging in fluffy steamed cakes, these recipes make it easy to explore traditional Chinese sweets.
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At Creme Filled Churros, we’re here to inspire your next kitchen adventure. Try these 14 delicious Chinese desserts, and bring authentic flavors to your home with every bite!