Last Updated on 12-30-2023
Are you a dessert enthusiast with a penchant for exploring new flavors and indulging in sweet treats? Look no further than Taiwan, a country known for its vibrant culinary scene and rich food culture. When it comes to desserts, Taiwan offers a delightful array of options that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. From traditional classics to modern creations, Taiwanese desserts have something for everyone. In this article, we’ll introduce you to ten delectable sweets that you must try when visiting Taiwan.
Douhua (Tofu Pudding)
Let’s begin our dessert adventure with Douhua, a popular Chinese snack that has become a beloved Taiwanese dessert. Douhua is a silky-smooth tofu pudding with a delicate texture. It is often served with sweet syrup or toppings like red beans, peanuts, or tapioca pearls. The combination of the creamy tofu and the sweet flavors creates a delightful treat that melts in your mouth.
Pineapple Cake
No visit to Taiwan would be complete without trying the famous Pineapple Cake. These bite-sized pastries consist of a buttery, crumbly exterior filled with tangy pineapple jam. They are a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making them an absolute delight for dessert lovers.
Mango Shaved Ice
When the summer heat becomes unbearable, nothing beats the refreshing taste of Mango Shaved Ice. This dessert features a mountain of fluffy shaved ice topped with fresh mango slices, mango syrup, and condensed milk. It’s a tropical paradise in a bowl that will keep you cool and satisfied on a hot day .
Bubble Milk Tea
Originating from Taiwan, Bubble Milk Tea has taken the world by storm with its unique combination of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. This popular beverage offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, satisfying both tea and dessert cravings simultaneously. With a wide variety of flavors and customizable options, Bubble Milk Tea is a must-try when visiting Taiwan.
Sun Cakes
Sun Cakes are traditional Taiwanese pastries that originated in Taichung. These small round cakes have a flaky crust filled with a rich, sweet maltose paste. The name “Sun Cake” comes from their golden-brown appearance, resembling the radiant sun. The combination of the buttery crust and the sweet filling creates a delightful contrast that will leave you wanting more.
Grass Jelly
Grass Jelly is a popular dessert made from the leaves of the Chinese mesona plant. It has a dark, jelly-like texture and a slightly bitter taste. Grass Jelly is often served with sweet syrup or fresh fruits, adding a refreshing twist to its unique flavor. It’s a popular choice for cooling down during the hot summer months in Taiwan.
Taiwanese-style Mochi
Mochi is a beloved dessert in many Asian countries, and Taiwan has its own take on this delightful treat. Taiwanese-style Mochi is often filled with sweet and savory fillings, such as red bean paste, peanut, or sesame. The soft, chewy texture of the mochi paired with the flavorful fillings creates a delightful combination that will satisfy your sweet cravings.
Peanut Ice Cream Rolls
Peanut Ice Cream Rolls are a popular street food dessert in Taiwan. It consists of a thin layer of crepe rolled up with various fillings, including ice cream, crushed peanuts, and cilantro. The contrasting textures and flavors make it a unique and delicious dessert that you shouldn’t miss.
Black Sesame Soup
For those who appreciate the nutty flavor of black sesame, Black Sesame Soup is a must-try dessert in Taiwan. This warm and comforting dessert is made by grinding black sesame seeds into a smooth paste and sweetening it with sugar or honey. It’s a rich and indulgent treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Taro Balls
Last but not least, we have Taro Balls, a popular Taiwanese dessert commonly found in shaved ice or sweet soup. These chewy, purple-hued balls are made from taro, a starchy root vegetable, and are often served with a variety of toppings like red beans, grass jelly, or sweet syrup. The unique texture and subtly sweet flavor of taro make this dessert a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re a dessert aficionado or simply have a sweet tooth, Taiwanese desserts offer an exciting and delicious culinary adventure. From silky tofu pudding to refreshing shaved ice and mouth watering pastries, the desserts in Taiwan are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, on your next visit to Taiwan, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in these delightful sweets and experience the rich flavors of Taiwanese cuisine.
Conclusion
Taiwanese desserts are a treasure trove of flavors and textures that captivate the hearts of food lovers around the world. From the iconic Pineapple Cake to the refreshing Mango Shaved Ice, each sweet treat offers a unique culinary experience. Whether you’re strolling through bustling night markets or exploring cozy dessert shops, be sure to try these ten sweets that showcase the best of Taiwanese dessert culture. Indulge in the delightful flavors, embrace the vibrant food scene, and satisfy your sweet cravings in Taiwan.
