Popular Chinese Desserts

Chinese desserts differ quite a bit from Western sweets in both flavor and presentation. Some of the most beloved treats include red bean buns, dragon’s beard candy, egg tarts, candied fruit skewers, pumpkin pancakes, custard buns, fried durian pastries, sweet rice balls, almond jelly, and grass jelly.

Dining in China also works differently—there’s no strict sequence of courses. Even desserts can arrive at any point during the meal, and everything is typically shared among diners.

Red bean paste is a staple in Chinese sweets. Although it may seem unusual at first, its mildly sweet and earthy flavor is widely loved. Red bean buns are a sweet version of steamed buns (baozi), filled with this paste. They come in various shapes and sizes and are especially popular in northern regions. You’ll find them freshly steamed in restaurants or packaged in stores. Variations may include fillings like taro, pine nut paste, or black bean.

This traditional confection dates back to the Han Dynasty and is considered both a snack and an art form. Made from finely spun sugar strands, it resembles cotton candy but is denser and stickier. It melts quickly and is commonly sold by street vendors or at tourist spots.

Introduced to China through Macau by Portuguese settlers, egg tarts feature a flaky crust filled with smooth custard. They are best enjoyed warm and are widely available in Cantonese eateries, bakeries, and convenience stores. Some shops specialize exclusively in these tarts.

A classic Beijing snack, tanghulu consists of fruits—traditionally hawthorn berries—coated in hardened sugar syrup and served on sticks. Modern versions may include grapes, kiwi, or strawberries. These are commonly sold at street stalls, especially in tourist areas.

These deep-fried treats are made from pumpkin, flour, and sugar, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft interior. Popular during colder months, they are quite sweet and sometimes coated with sesame seeds for added flavor. Originating in Sichuan cuisine, they are now widely available.

Also known as custard buns, these are soft steamed buns filled with a creamy mixture of egg yolk and sugar. Despite the unusual combination, they are a favorite in southern China and commonly served in Cantonese restaurants.

Durian, famous for its strong aroma, is surprisingly popular in China. When coated in a light batter and fried, it becomes a rich dessert with a creamy interior. It’s especially common during summer when durian is in season.

Tangyuan is a warm dessert soup featuring glutinous rice balls, often filled with sweet pastes. The soup may include fermented rice, giving it a slight alcoholic note. It is traditionally eaten during the Lantern Festival and symbolizes family unity due to its round shape and name.

This soft, pale dessert is enjoyed throughout China. Despite its name, it is usually made from apricot kernels rather than almonds. The kernels are processed into a milk-like liquid, then set with a gelling agent. It has a delicate flavor and smooth texture.

Grass jelly is a refreshing dessert made from a plant known as mesona chinensis. It is boiled and combined with starch to form a jelly-like consistency. It can be served in cubes, drinks, or with condensed milk, and is popular across China and Southeast Asia.

If you enjoy sweets, Chinese desserts offer a unique way to experience the country’s culinary diversity. Whether you’re traveling or simply exploring at home, trying these treats provides insight into regional flavors and traditions.