Asian Dessert. Craving something sweet that goes beyond the ordinary? Look no further! From the vibrant streets of India to the serene landscapes of Japan, we’re taking a dessert tour across Asia. Get ready for a flavor explosion featuring ube, pandan, matcha, and more. Whether it’s a festive occasion or just a craving after dinner, these Asian dessert recipes will jazz up your taste buds.
1. Cardamom Yogurt Cake with Mango Lassi Icing
Let’s kick things off with a sweet twist on India’s favorite – mango lassi. This cake is a delightful fusion of cardamom-infused batter, mango preserves, and a yogurt icing glaze. Topped with pistachios and fresh mango slices, it’s a true celebration of flavors.
2. Ba Bao Fan (Eight-Treasure Rice)
Enter the world of Chinese tradition with Ba Bao Fan. This lightly sweet sticky rice dessert is adorned with an array of dried and candied fruits. The number eight is no accident – it symbolizes prosperity. Each bite is a step towards good fortune.
3. Ube Basque Cakes
Indulge in the purple allure of ube with these Filipino-inspired mini cakes. Ube, a purple yam native to the Philippines, takes center stage. Filled with creamy ube pastry and tart huckleberries, these cakes are a burst of buttery goodness.
4. Chè Khúc Bach
Vietnamese charm comes alive in Chè Khúc Bach, also known as “white chunk dessert soup.” A medley of flavored panna cotta, tropical fruits, and shaved ice drizzled with sweet coconut cream – it’s a riot of colors and textures.
5. Tropical Jackfruit–Ginger Ale Sorbet with Charred Pineapple
Chef Sam Fore brings the taste of Tuk Tuk Sri Lanka with a refreshing sorbet. Jackfruit, pineapple, and ginger ale come together for an icy treat. It’s the perfect dessert to beat the summer heat.
6. Royal Falooda
Get ready for a royal treat with Falooda, a beloved dessert in South Asia. Rose jelly, vermicelli, and chia seeds swim in rose syrup–sweetened milk. Crowned with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a dessert fit for royalty.
7. Orange-Cardamom Butter Cakes with Rosewater Icing
Sri Lankan elegance graces the table with these delicate butter cakes. Infused with cardamom and citrusy orange, they are a perfect accompaniment to afternoon tea. The rosewater icing adds a floral touch, making them utterly irresistible.
8. Microwave Bánh Deo (Mochi Mooncakes) with Black Sesame–Chocolate Filling
Vietnamese mochi mooncakes take center stage with a unique black tahini and chocolate filling. The chewy mochi coating, infused with matcha powder, creates a delightful contrast. It’s a modern twist on a classic treat.
9. Yin-Yang Tang Yuan (Sweet Sticky Rice Balls in Soup)
Experience the harmony of sweet Chinese dessert soup with Yin-Yang Tang Yuan. Rice flour dough balls stuffed with black sesame seeds float in a rock sugar–sweetened broth. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a symbol of togetherness.
10. Mini Mangonada Floats
Filipino mango float gets a spicy and tangy twist with Mini Mangonada Floats. Layers of graham crackers, whipped cream, and fresh mango come together for a delightful treat. It’s a fusion of Filipino and Mexican flavors that’s sure to please.
11. Ombré Coconut Burfi Cake
Indulge in the beauty of ombré with the Coconut Burfi Cake. Layers of sweetened coconut, bound by Swiss meringue buttercream, create a visual and flavorful masterpiece. Inspired by Indian burfi, it’s a heavenly delight.
There you have it – a journey through Asia via its delectable desserts. Time to bring these flavors to your kitchen and embark on a sweet adventure!