There’s something about desserts that unite people, especially the sweet-toothed. That fluffy raspberry cheesecake, gooey chocolate tart, and that beautifully decorated donut. They just seem to tug our heart strings and we can’t help but get them off the shelves. Hunting for sweet treats around the world are probably the very reason for my existence!
Exaggeration aside, here’s the ultimate list of sweet treats around the world you have to try if you’re heading to these places. Some may sound familiar, others not quite, but you sweet-tooth people are in for a treat (pun intended).
1.Tokyo Banana — Japan
Photo credit: Tokyo Banana
These custard cakes are probably one of the most highly raved sweet treats in Japan! Creamy banana custard sandwiched between soft sponge cakes are to die for. They are individually packed, so you won’t have to finish an entire box at one go, but you probably will!
2. Dragon beard candy — China
Photo credit: Thermomix
This sweet treat from China is slightly chewy with a nutty interior. Preparing this requires extraordinary workmanship as they stretch, twist, and finally shape them into a white cocoon with a peanut core. Sugary sweet on the outside and fragrant inside, I simply adore this sweet treat! The perfect example of not judging a book by its cover, this sweet treat may seem odd looking at first but I’m sure you won’t regret trying it!
3. Turkish Delights — Turkey
Photo credit: Stamboul Bazaar
Soft chewy and often mixed with nuts, this sweet treat can be found in many places around the world today! Turkish delights come in many flavours, are often cubes, and lean towards the sweet side. I loved the contrasting texture of the nuts when chewing on a these delicate pieces!
4. Chocolate Religieuse — France
Photo credit: Delifrance
If you’re a fan of cream puffs, this sweet treat is sure to take your breath away. Chocolate Religieuse is a mini tower of two cream puffs topped with rich chocolate ganache and whipped cream. Maybe it’s true what they say — good things come in pairs.
5. Assorted Kit Kats — Japan
Photo credit: KitKat Japan
The milk chocolate wafer bar just got better — available in exotic flavours such as cheesecake and wasabi, Japan brings KitKat to a whole new level. The striking similarity of the chocolate wafer to the original food, makes the whole thing more mind-blowing. I tried the sake flavoured one which was interesting to say the least and had a pleasant surprise as a trickle of vodka oozed out 😉
6. Kaju Katli — India
Photo credit: Pexels
Famous all over India, Kaju Katli should be on your list when travelling! This diamond shaped sweet treat is rich in cashew. They are usually decorated with edible silver or gold on top — classy!
7. Cuberdon — Belgium
Photo credit: Elisabeth.be
Cuberdon cones are sure to jingle your sweet tooth! It resembles a jelly bean — a hard exterior enclosing a chewy gelatine centre. The traditional flavour is actually the raspberry ones which are purple. But Belgium has since introduced many other unique ones such as ice cream and cookies, so munch away!
8. Butter Cookies — Denmark
Photo credit: Pixabay
Yes, that metal blue tin with assorted butter cookies labelled “Danish Cookies”. I loved how fragrant and light they are, compared to the usual ones found outside Denmark!
9. Chimney cake — Czech Republic
You are sure to smell one before you see one! Baked on a rotating rod, the chimney cake is sugary and crisp on the outside; and pillowy soft on the inside. I loved how generously the exterior is coated with cinnamon and sugar and I make sure to get one whenever I see it!
10. Waffles – Belgium
Photo credit: Sweet Belgium
Even though some may deem these yummy goodness as overrated, I loved the plain ones so much I had four one morning when I was in Brussels. They’re extraordinary — plain fluffy pancakes with unmelted cubes of pearl sugar, yum! But these newer fancy variations are worth a try too!
11. Tang Hu Lu 糖葫芦 – China
Photo credit: Getty Images
Also known as the “Chinese Toffee Apple”, this sweet treat is a popular street food in China. The traditional ones are skewers of Chinese Hawthorn coated with a thin layer of semi-hard candy – a stark contrast in flavours and textures put together.
12. Crepe — France
Photo credit: Pixabay
Paper thin pancakes sandwiching freshly whipped cream are truly the sweet treat to be eaten anytime during the day. The crepes are soft and usually drizzled with either chocolate or fruit sauces, then dusted with icing sugar for the perfect sweet moment.
13. Shokoladnaya Kolbasa (Chocolate Salami) — Russia
Photo credit: Pixabay
When sausages are not filled with meat…and pumped with chocolate and cookie pieces instead. This Russian delight is sure to make children squeal with delight. Many recipes can be found online on how to recreate this treat, so no worries if you aren’t heading to Russia!
14. Bingsu — Korea
Photo credit: @kongtogo via Instagram
Drenched in flavoured sauces, Bingsu is an exciting bowl of shaved ice… with many toppings! A wide variety of toppings are used: cheesecake cubes, fruits, chocolate wafers, nuts… I’m sure Korea got really creative when designing their dessert.
15. Panna Cotta — Italy
Photo credit: Trattoria da Cesare
This milk based pudding that originated from Italy has found its way to many other countries, and to our hearts as well. Characterised by its soft silky texture, panna cotta can be served plain, drenched in berry sauces or topped with assorted snacks such as popcorn.
16. Cronuts — New York
Photo credit: Dominique Ansel
Ever wondered what happens when a croissant meets a donut? A sugary donut crusted exterior that gives way to layered buttery crisps. Available in many other countries now, they can get really fancy with coloured buttercream and figurines as well!
17. Bird’s Milk Cake (Ptichie Moloko) —Russia
Photo credit: Pixabay
I’m not too sure if birds do produce milk but this cake probably has one of the most misleading names. A thick slab of marshmallow lying on cake base, topped with a layer of chocolate — self-explanatory bliss.
18. Mango sticky rice (Khao Niew Mamuang) — Thailand
When I was young, I was always told to finish my rice first before having desserts, but NOT ANYMORE! As the name suggests, this traditional Thai sweet treat is a combination of mango and glutinous rice. Topped with coconut milk, this dessert is usually served warm or at room temperature. Tuck in!
19. Apple Strudel — Vienna
I’m sure this sweet treat is served in many cafes all over the world, but be sure to try out how the Viennese did it! Breadcrumbs and apples are layered on paper thin dough, before it is rolled up and baked to perfection 😋
20. Chocolate Truffles — Belgium
Photo credit: @neuhauschocolates via Instagram
Well known for their chocolates, Belgium has a wide range of bonbons. Be sure to try their traditional pralines – a thinner chocolate shell containing all the creamy goodness. If you’re feeling a little wild, give their beer truffles a go! I love how harmonious the alcohol and chocolate tasted together — indeed a seamless pair.
Are you craving for something sweet already? I definitely am!
Read also:
–Ultimate Singapore Food Guide — 54 Local-Approved Things to Eat in Singapore
–Bangkok Food Guide — 9 Street Food Stalls Most Recommended by Locals
–Hokkaido Food Guide — 9 Must-Eats on Your Next Japan Itinerary
–Ultimate Kuala Lumpur Food Guide — From Cheap Street Eats to Dining In The Sky
Did your favourite sweet treat make the list? If not, share them with us by commenting below 😋
SPONGE CANDY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!