15 Dreamy Desserts You Must Try in Vietnam: A Sweet Journey
Vietnam is known for its vibrant street food, but did you know it also boasts an incredible variety of dreamy desserts? From silky puddings to refreshing fruit-based treats, Vietnamese desserts are full of unique flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re indulging in a sweet snack from a roadside vendor or savoring a delicate treat at a cafe, here are 15 must-try desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth during your trip to Vietnam.
- Che Ba Mau (Three-Color Dessert)
This colorful and refreshing dessert is a true Vietnamese favorite. Che Ba Mau consists of three layers—mung beans, red beans, and green jelly—served in a glass with crushed ice and sweet coconut milk. It’s as fun to look at as it is to eat!
- Why Try It?: Perfect for a hot day, this layered dessert is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Pro Tip: Mix the layers together before digging in for a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
- Banh Flan (Vietnamese Crème Caramel)
A delicate, silky-smooth flan that melts in your mouth, Banh Flan is a French-inspired dessert that has been adopted into Vietnamese cuisine. It’s typically served with a drizzle of coffee or caramel syrup and sometimes topped with crushed ice for an extra twist.
- Why Try It?: The creamy texture paired with sweet caramel and bitter coffee creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Pro Tip: Enjoy it cold on a warm afternoon for the ultimate indulgence.
- Che Troi Nuoc (Sticky Rice Dumplings in Ginger Syrup)
This comforting dessert features soft, glutinous rice dumplings filled with mung bean paste, floating in a warm, sweet ginger syrup. Che Troi Nuoc is often enjoyed during traditional Vietnamese celebrations and is a heartwarming treat.
- Why Try It?: The combination of chewy dumplings and spicy ginger syrup creates a comforting and unique dessert experience.
- Pro Tip: Enjoy it warm for the best flavor, especially on a cool evening.
- Chuoi Nep Nuong (Grilled Banana Wrapped in Sticky Rice)
A popular street food snack, Chuoi Nep Nuong features ripe bananas wrapped in sticky rice, grilled to perfection, and served with coconut milk. The contrast between the caramelized banana and the creamy coconut sauce is simply irresistible.
- Why Try It?: This dessert is a delightful mix of sweet, smoky, and creamy, with a chewy texture that makes it unforgettable.
- Pro Tip: Look for vendors grilling these treats on the streets for the freshest and most authentic taste.
- Banh Da Lon (Vietnamese Steamed Layer Cake)
This visually appealing dessert, known as Banh Da Lon, is made from layers of steamed tapioca and mung bean flour, often dyed in vibrant colors like green from pandan leaves. The chewy layers make it fun to eat, while the subtle sweetness is perfect for those who prefer less sugary desserts.
- Why Try It?: The colorful layers and unique texture make this a delightful dessert to both see and eat.
- Pro Tip: Peel apart the layers to savor each flavor individually, or enjoy it all in one bite!
- Che Thai (Vietnamese Fruit Cocktail)
Che Thai is a tropical fruit lover’s dream. This dessert is a sweet and creamy concoction made with a variety of exotic fruits like jackfruit, lychee, and longan, mixed with jellies and served in coconut milk. It’s often topped with crushed ice for a refreshing finish.
- Why Try It?: It’s the perfect combination of sweet fruits and creamy coconut milk—an ideal dessert for a hot day.
- Pro Tip: Try it with a mix of different tropical fruits for a unique flavor in every bite.
- Xoi Xoai (Mango Sticky Rice)
Inspired by Thai cuisine, Xoi Xoai is Vietnam’s version of mango sticky rice. This dish combines sweet, sticky rice with juicy, ripe mango slices and is topped with coconut milk and sesame seeds for a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
- Why Try It?: The sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the chewy rice and creamy coconut milk.
- Pro Tip: Look for this dessert during mango season for the juiciest, most flavorful experience.
- Che Bap (Sweet Corn Pudding)
A beloved Vietnamese dessert, Che Bap is made from sweet corn, sticky rice, and coconut milk, creating a comforting and creamy pudding. It’s a simple yet delicious dessert that’s perfect for any time of day.
- Why Try It?: The sweet, milky flavor of coconut combined with tender corn kernels makes this a unique and satisfying dessert.
- Pro Tip: Enjoy it warm or cold, depending on your preference.
- Banh Chuoi (Vietnamese Banana Cake)
Banh Chuoi is a moist and flavorful banana cake made from ripe bananas and coconut milk, often baked or steamed. This sweet treat is a common snack in Vietnam and is loved for its rich banana flavor and soft texture.
- Why Try It?: It’s like banana bread, but with a tropical twist thanks to the coconut milk.
- Pro Tip: Try it topped with a drizzle of coconut sauce for extra richness.
- Kem Xoi (Sticky Rice with Ice Cream)
For an unusual yet delightful combination, try Kem Xoi, which features sticky rice topped with a scoop of creamy ice cream. The chewy rice contrasts beautifully with the smooth, cold ice cream, making this a perfect dessert for hot days.
- Why Try It?: The texture combination is both surprising and delicious—an absolute must-try for adventurous eaters.
- Pro Tip: Choose coconut or green tea ice cream for a truly authentic experience.
- Rau Cau Dua (Coconut Jelly)
Rau Cau Dua is a refreshing coconut jelly that is light, mildly sweet, and served chilled. This wobbly dessert is made from coconut water and agar-agar, making it a healthy and hydrating treat.
- Why Try It?: It’s a refreshing and guilt-free dessert with a subtle coconut flavor.
- Pro Tip: Enjoy it after a meal for a light and cooling dessert.
- Che Khoai Mon (Taro Sweet Soup)
This comforting dessert is made with soft chunks of taro simmered in sweet coconut milk, creating a creamy and mildly sweet soup. Che Khoai Mon is a traditional Vietnamese dessert often served warm.
- Why Try It?: The smooth, creamy texture of taro pairs perfectly with the sweetness of coconut milk.
- Pro Tip: Enjoy it hot during the cooler months for a comforting treat.
- Sua Chua Nep Cam (Vietnamese Yogurt with Sticky Rice)
This unique dessert combines tart Vietnamese yogurt with fermented purple sticky rice. The contrast between the tangy yogurt and sweet, slightly sour rice creates a refreshing and healthy dessert option.
- Why Try It?: It’s an exciting mix of flavors that you won’t find in typical desserts, with both sweet and sour notes.
- Pro Tip: Try it with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
- Bo Dam (Avocado Dessert)
Bo Dam is a creamy avocado dessert made by blending ripe avocado with condensed milk and ice. The result is a smooth, rich treat that is both refreshing and indulgent, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
- Why Try It?: It’s the ideal balance of creamy avocado and sweet condensed milk, creating a dessert that feels healthy yet satisfying.
- Pro Tip: Add a splash of coconut milk for an extra tropical flavor.
- Che Dau Xanh (Mung Bean Pudding)
Che Dau Xanh is a simple yet delightful mung bean pudding, sweetened with sugar and served with a drizzle of coconut cream. It’s a classic Vietnamese dessert that’s both healthy and filling.
- Why Try It?: Light, nutritious, and delicious—this is a great dessert for those who want a little something sweet without being too indulgent.
- Pro Tip: Enjoy it warm for a comforting finish to your meal.
Ready to Indulge in Vietnam’s Sweet Treats?
From creamy coconut desserts to refreshing fruit treats, Vietnam’s dessert scene offers something for every sweet tooth. Whether you’re strolling through street markets or dining at a local cafe, make sure to try these 15 dreamy desserts during your trip to Vietnam.
Start planning your sweet adventure today and discover the rich flavors and unique textures of Vietnam’s dessert culture!