Traditional Sweet Treats in Vietnam to Try at Least Once in your Lifetime

Vietnam is a treasure trove of delicious desserts that have been passed down through generations. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey across the three regions of North, Central, and South Vietnam, and discover the rich flavors, unique textures, and exciting combinations that make these sweet treats an absolute must-try experience.

1. Best Traditional Sweet Treats in Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam has long been renowned for its diverse cuisine, and sweet treats are among its standout offerings. Here are the top three sweet treats that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Northern Vietnam:

1.1. Bánh trôi – Floating Glutinous Rice Dumplings

Floating glutinous rice dumplings (Bánh Trôi) stand out with their sweet flavor, thanks to the sugary filling, and chewy outer layer made from sticky rice flour and regular rice flour. These dumplings have a delightful aroma and sweetness that doesn’t overwhelm the palate. You can find them at local markets for $0.85 per plate, all year round.

Floating glutinous rice dumplings are usually sold at local markets

1.2. Kem Tràng Tiền – Trang Tien Ice Cream

Trang Tien ice cream has been around for over 60 years and is considered a famous dish in Hanoi, Vietnam. Originally crafted with mung beans, cocoa, rice flakes, and coconut, it has expanded to include flavors like green tea, durian, chocolate, and nuggets. With prices starting at a mere $0.42, this delightful treat is affordable for all.

Trang Tien ice cream has been around for over 60 years

If you want to enjoy authentic Trang Tien ice cream, make sure to visit Trang Tien Street in Hanoi.

1.3. Bánh cốm – Green Sticky Rice Cake

Originating in Yen Ninh village, Yen Thanh district, on the outskirts of Hanoi, Vietnam, this cake captivates with its green sticky rice outer layer and a delightful filling of mung bean, grated coconut, and either pumpkin or lotus seed jam. Traditionally used for engagement ceremonies, it offers a delicate fragrance of young sticky rice, a sweet taste from blended sugar, and a refreshing hint of fresh coconut. 

Bánh cốm is widely available in many stores across the Northern region

Nowadays, you can find this cake readily available in numerous stores across the Northern region, typically priced between $0.25 and $0.34.

>> If you want to savor the delightful and authentic flavors of Vietnamese sweet treats, book your plane ticket to Vietnam now and indulge in these enticing delicacies!

2. Best Traditional Sweet Treats in Central Vietnam

Not only the Northern region, but also the Central region of Vietnam boasts unique sweet delicacies that are hard to find elsewhere.

2.1. Chè Bắp – Sweet Corn Pudding

Sweet Corn Pudding, originating in Hoi An, is a delicious bowl of sweet corn pudding that has a chewy texture, with the sweet and crisp flavor of corn combined with the creamy richness of coconut milk. This dish is usually sold in local markets or street stalls in the Central Region and typically costs around $0.34 to $0.63.

Sweet Corn Pudding is a delicious and distinctive dessert from Central Vietnam.

2.2. Mè xửng – Sesame Paste

Sesame Paste, also known as Mè Xửng, originates from Thua Thien Hue province in Central Vietnam. It is a sweet and chewy candy made from malt syrup mixed with peanut oil and coated with sesame seeds. The candy is cut into small square pieces and packaged in boxes.

Sesame seed is one of the specialties that has become a cultural symbol of Hue for a long time

You can indulge in the unique flavor of this candy for a price ranging from $0.76 to $1.27 per package.

2.3. Chè Sầu – Sweet Green Bean Dessert With Durian

Popular in Da Nang and beyond, this special dessert is a unique treat for durian enthusiasts. The blend of creamy durian and coconut broth creates a unique flavor experience. Though it may not appeal to everyone’s taste, it has gained popularity in various provinces and cities across Vietnam with a price range of approximately $0.51 to $0.63 per serving.

Sweet green bean dessert with durian is known as a famous specialty of Da Nang

3. Best traditional Sweet Treats in Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam is renowned for its sweeter cuisine compared to other regions, so it’s no wonder that there are plenty of unique sweet dishes here that you shouldn’t miss out on.

3.1. Tàu hũ – Sweet Tofu Pudding

Sweet Tofu Pudding, also known as “Tàu Hũ”, is a popular summer snack loved by people of all ages. This dessert is made from finely ground soybeans, similar to making tofu but with more precision. After boiling and cooling down, it is set into a firm texture.

Tofu is a dish made from soybeans, rich in protein and antioxidants

Sweet Tofu Pudding has a delightful, sweet, and creamy taste of soybeans, making it a perfect treat to cool down during the summer heat. You can enjoy a cup of delicious Sweet Tofu Pudding for just $0.42.

In addition to the aforementioned desserts, Southern Vietnam offers a plethora of other sweet delights such as Coconut Sticky Rice Ice Cream, Black Sesame Sweet Soup, and Fried Banana Cake. 

>>If you’re intrigued by the culinary delights of this region, don’t hesitate any longer and book your flights to Ho Chi Minh City to savor them firsthand!

3.2. Chè 3 Màu – Three-Color Dessert

When savoring a glass of Three-Color Dessert, you will experience the delicious and smooth taste of mixed beans combined with creamy coconut milk and the refreshing sensation of agar-agar jelly. With each enticing three-color glass, you only need to spend $0.63 to indulge in it.

Three-Color Dessert is one of the beloved dishes during scorching days in Southern Vietnam

3.3. Bánh Da Lợn – Steamed Layer Cake

Steamed Layer Cake, also known colloquially as “Bánh Da Lợn,” is a popular traditional cake from Southern Vietnam. This cake is commonly found in rural markets, with prices ranging from just $2.54 per box. The majority of Steamed layer cakes are made from tapioca flour.

Steamed Layer Cake is commonly found in rural markets, with prices ranging from just $2.54 per box

3.4. Chè Chuối – Banana Pudding with Coconut Milk

Banana pudding with coconut milk from Southern Vietnam is a beloved traditional dish cherished by generations. This dessert is often sold by street vendors and small stalls in markets. Banana pudding with coconut milk combines the sweet and fragrant flavor of bananas with a hint of saltiness and creamy richness from the coconut milk.

Banana pudding with coconut milk is often sold by street vendors and small stalls in markets

To savor a delicious bowl of banana pudding, all you need is around $0.85.

From luscious delights to refreshing fruit-based creations, the given list promises a journey for your taste buds that you simply cannot afford to miss during your visit to Vietnam. Let the enchanting flavors of this enchanting land captivate your senses and create unforgettable memories.