12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors

Amy T. Walker

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12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors

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When it comes to dessert, sometimes you just want something light and refreshing. I created this post to share my love for Chinese dessert recipes that offer a balance of sweetness and traditional flavors. With spring in the air, I’ve been craving treats that are not only delicious but also feel wholesome.

If you’re someone who enjoys exploring traditional Chinese sweets or you’re simply looking to try some easy Asian desserts, you’re in the right place. These recipes are perfect for anyone who appreciates authentic flavors but doesn’t want to feel weighed down after indulging. Whether you’re new to Chinese cuisine or a seasoned pro, there’s something here for everyone.

In this post, I’ve put together a collection of 12 delightful recipes that celebrate the lighter side of Chinese desserts. Each dish incorporates healthy ingredients, often with herbal infusions that enhance the flavors and bring a unique twist to classic recipes. You’ll discover options like Matcha Red Bean Mochi and Coconut Tapioca Pudding that are not only easy to make but also a feast for the senses.

These recipes will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but will also inspire you to create beautiful treats that evoke the comfort of home and tradition. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the world of light dessert ideas that reflect the rich heritage of Asian pastry recipes. You’re in for a treat that’s both nourishing and delightful!

Key Takeaways

– Discover 12 easy-to-make Chinese dessert recipes that focus on light and refreshing flavors.

– Each recipe highlights traditional ingredients and methods, giving you an authentic taste of Chinese culture.

– You’ll learn to create desserts like Herbal Lychee Jelly and Sweet Potato Balls that incorporate healthy options.

– Find inspiration for serving these desserts at gatherings or enjoying them as everyday treats.

– These desserts are perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the heaviness of traditional sweets.

1. Matcha Red Bean Mochi

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 1. Matcha Red Bean Mochi 1

Craving a delightful treat that’s both chewy and sweet? The Matcha Red Bean Mochi is your answer. This soft delicacy combines the earthy notes of matcha with the sweet richness of red bean paste, creating a balanced dessert that’s light yet satisfying. Perfect for those moments when you need a small bite of joy, it’s also simple to prepare at home, making it a favorite among dessert lovers.

You’ll enjoy the unique texture, plus the health benefits of matcha and red beans, which are rich in antioxidants and fiber.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup red bean paste
– Cornstarch (for dusting)

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix glutinous rice flour and matcha powder.
2. Gradually add water and knead to form a smooth dough.
3. Steam the dough for about 10 minutes until it looks translucent.
4. Let it cool slightly, then divide into small portions.
5. Flatten each piece, place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center, and wrap it into a ball.
6. Dust with cornstarch and enjoy!

FAQs:
– Can I use other fillings? Yes, feel free to substitute red bean paste with your favorite filling.
– Can I make it vegan? Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan-friendly!

Matcha Red Bean Mochi

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:27 AM

2. Coconut Tapioca Pudding

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 2. Coconut Tapioca Pudding 1

Looking for a dessert that feels like a tropical getaway? Coconut Tapioca Pudding brings the taste of summer to your table. With its creamy coconut milk and chewy tapioca pearls, this pudding is not just delicious; it’s a refreshing treat that’s easy to whip up at home. Ideal for warm afternoons, it pairs beautifully with fresh fruit for a light yet indulgent dessert.

Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfaction of making this delightful pudding yourself!

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tapioca pearls
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– Fresh fruits for topping (like mango or berries)

Instructions:
1. Rinse tapioca pearls under cold water to remove excess starch.
2. Boil water in a pot, add tapioca pearls, and stir well.
3. Cook on low heat for about 30 minutes until translucent, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat, drain, and mix with coconut milk and sugar.
5. Let it cool, then serve chilled, topped with fresh fruit.

FAQs:
– Can I use instant tapioca? Yes, but follow package instructions for cooking times.
– Is it gluten-free? Absolutely, this dessert is naturally gluten-free!

Coconut Tapioca Pudding

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:26 AM

3. Herbal Lychee Jelly

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 3. Herbal Lychee Jelly 1

Feeling like something light and refreshing? Herbal Lychee Jelly offers a delightful blend of sweet lychee and herbal notes that’s perfect for any occasion. This beautiful dessert not only looks appealing but also brings a unique flavor profile that will surprise your taste buds. It’s versatile too—enjoy it alone or as part of a fruit salad for a colorful treat.

You’ll love how easy it is to make, and your guests will surely be impressed!

Ingredients:
– 1 can lychee in syrup (reserve syrup)
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon agar-agar powder
– 2 tablespoons herbal tea (like chrysanthemum or green tea)

Instructions:
1. Boil water in a pot and steep herbal tea for 5 minutes.
2. Strain the tea, return it to the pot, and add the reserved syrup.
3. Stir in agar-agar and ensure it’s completely dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into a mold and add lychee pieces.
5. Cool and refrigerate until set, then slice and serve.

FAQs:
– Can I use fresh lychee? Yes, it’s a great option when in season!
– Can I use another type of tea? Absolutely, feel free to experiment with different flavors.

After a busy day, Herbal Lychee Jelly feels like a mini vacation—light, refreshing, and surprisingly elegant. It proves that simple ingredients can shine in our chinese dessert recipes, so chill, slice, and serve with fruit for instant wow.

Herbal Lychee Jelly

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:27 AM

4. Almond Tofu with Honey Syrup

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 4. Almond Tofu with Honey Syrup 1

Craving something light and creamy? Almond Tofu, also known as ‘Almond Jelly’, is a classic Chinese dessert that’s perfect for you. The subtle almond flavor paired with a drizzle of honey syrup creates a delightful treat that soothes the palate. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a beautiful presentation, ideal for dinner parties or casual gatherings.

Indulge in its smooth texture and enjoy the health benefits of almond milk as well!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1/2 teaspoon agar-agar powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Fresh fruits for topping (like berries or kiwi)

Instructions:
1. Heat almond milk and sugar in a pot until dissolved.
2. Sprinkle in agar-agar and stir continuously until fully dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into a mold and let it cool completely.
4. Cut into squares and serve with honey and fresh fruits.

FAQs:
– Can I use sweetened almond milk? Yes, just reduce the added sugar accordingly.
– Is it suitable for vegans? Yes, just substitute honey with agave syrup.

Almond Tofu with Honey Syrup

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:26 AM

5. Sweet Potato Balls

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 5. Sweet Potato Balls 1

Craving a comforting snack? Sweet Potato Balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect treat. These delightful bites are made from mashed sweet potatoes and rolled in sesame seeds, offering a light sweetness and nutty flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re gluten-free, so they can cater to various dietary needs.

Enjoy them as a dessert or snack anytime you need a little pick-me-up!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Oil for frying

Instructions:
1. Combine mashed sweet potatoes and glutinous rice flour to form a dough.
2. Shape the mixture into small balls.
3. Roll the balls in sesame seeds to coat them.
4. Heat oil in a pan and fry the balls until golden brown.
5. Drain on paper towels before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I bake them instead of frying? Yes! Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes for a healthier option.
– Can I use other fillings? Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors.

Fun fact: Sweet Potato Balls can be under 200 calories per serving and gluten-free, a tasty win for healthy chinese dessert recipes. The sesame-crusted bites give a crisp shell with a soft, comforting interior—perfect for a quick pick-me-up.

Sweet Potato Balls

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:28 AM

Dessert Key Ingredients Cost Variations
Matcha Red Bean Mochi Glutinous rice flour, matcha $29.50 Other fillings available
Coconut Tapioca Pudding Tapioca pearls, coconut milk $22.99 Add fresh fruits
Herbal Lychee Jelly Lychee, agar-agar, herbal tea $24.99 Use fresh lychee
Almond Tofu Almond milk, agar-agar $24.99 Substitute honey with agave
Sweet Potato Balls Mashed sweet potatoes, sesame seeds $29.50 Bake instead of fry
Ginger Milk Pudding Milk, ginger juice, gelatin $25.49 Drizzle with honey

6. Sesame Soup with Tangyuan

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 6. Sesame Soup with Tangyuan 1

Looking for a warm and comforting dessert? Sesame Soup with Tangyuan is a traditional dish that’s perfect for festive occasions. The rich, silky sesame soup combined with chewy glutinous rice balls filled with sweet sesame paste creates a delightful combination that warms the heart. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s sure to bring comfort to any gathering.

Enjoy this flavorful dish that’s also easy to prepare for your loved ones!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame paste
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– Fillings for tangyuan (like black sesame paste)

Instructions:
1. Heat water in a pot, mixing in sesame paste and sugar until well blended.
2. In another bowl, mix glutinous rice flour with water to form a dough.
3. Shape small balls and fill them with sesame paste, if desired.
4. Boil the tangyuan until they float to the top.
5. Serve the tangyuan in warm sesame soup.

FAQs:
– Can I use peanut paste instead of sesame? Yes, it’s a delicious alternative!
– Is it gluten-free? If using glutinous rice flour, yes, it is gluten-free.

Sesame Soup with Tangyuan

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:28 AM

7. Mango Pudding

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 7. Mango Pudding 1

Craving a burst of tropical flavors? Mango Pudding is a refreshing dessert that’s creamy and delicious. Its vibrant color and smooth texture make it a standout dish that’s loved by many. This easy-to-prepare pudding is a delightful way to enjoy fresh mangoes when they are in season, making it perfect for any gathering or special occasion.

Enjoy the bright taste of mango and the satisfaction of creating this lovely dessert at home!

Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangoes (pureed)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon agar-agar powder
– Optional: whipped cream or fresh fruits for topping

Instructions:
1. In a pot, combine coconut milk and sugar, heating until simmering.
2. Stir in agar-agar powder until fully dissolved.
3. Mix in the mango puree and stir well.
4. Pour the mixture into molds and let it cool completely.
5. Unmold and serve with toppings of your choice.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen mango? Yes, just thaw it before blending for a smooth consistency.
– Is it suitable for vegans? Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly!

Did you know mango pudding can shine in Chinese dessert recipes with just 5 ingredients and 15 minutes of prep? Use ripe mangoes for vivid color and natural sweetness, then chill 2 hours for a silky, crowd-pleasing finish at home.

Mango Pudding

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:29 AM

8. Pandan Chiffon Cake

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 8. Pandan Chiffon Cake 1

In search of a light and fluffy dessert? Pandan Chiffon Cake is a wonderful treat that captures the unique fragrance of pandan leaves. This cake is visually stunning with its pastel green hue and incredibly soft texture. Perfect for tea time, it offers a gentle sweetness that pairs beautifully with rich flavors of tea, making it an ideal choice for any gathering.

Indulge in this delightful cake that’s not only pleasing to the eye but also to the palate!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup cake flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 4 eggs (separated)
– 1 teaspoon pandan extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Whisk together egg yolks, coconut milk, sugar, and pandan extract.
3. Sift together cake flour and baking powder in a separate bowl.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth.
5. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form and gently fold into the batter.
6. Pour into an ungreased cake pan and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Cool upside down to maintain fluffiness.

FAQs:
– Can I use pandan paste instead of extract? Yes, just reduce the quantity as it’s more concentrated.
– How to store leftovers? Keep them covered at room temperature to maintain moisture.

Pandan Chiffon Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:29 AM

9. Lotus Seed and Red Dates Soup

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 9. Lotus Seed and Red Dates Soup 1

In need of a warm and nourishing dessert? Lotus Seed and Red Dates Soup is a comforting choice, celebrated for its health benefits. This subtly sweet soup is packed with nutrients, making it perfect for any time of the year. The combination of lotus seeds and red dates not only offers delightful flavors but also embodies traditional Chinese medicinal practices.

Savor this wholesome soup that’s both delicious and good for you!

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dried lotus seeds
– 1/2 cup dried red dates
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons rock sugar (or to taste)

Instructions:
1. Soak lotus seeds and red dates in water for an hour.
2. Add soaked ingredients and water to a pot, bringing it to a boil.
3. Simmer for about 40 minutes until lotus seeds are tender.
4. Stir in rock sugar until dissolved and serve warm.

FAQs:
– Can I add other ingredients? Yes, try adding goji berries for extra nutrition.
– Is it served cold? Yes, it can be enjoyed chilled for a refreshing option.

Lotus Seed and Red Dates Soup

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:28 AM

10. Steamed Egg Cake with Goji Berries

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 10. Steamed Egg Cake with Goji Berries 1

Looking for a light dessert that feels indulgent? Steamed Egg Cake is incredibly fluffy and infused with the sweetness of goji berries. This classic Chinese dessert not only tastes delightful but is also visually captivating with its bright red accents. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and it becomes a delightful treat for any occasion.

Enjoy the fluffy texture and the health benefits of goji berries in this charming dessert!

Ingredients:
– 3 eggs
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 cup cake flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup goji berries

Instructions:
1. Whisk eggs and sugar in a bowl until pale and fluffy.
2. Sift in flour and baking powder, mixing gently.
3. Gradually add water until the batter is smooth.
4. Fold in goji berries gently.
5. Pour batter into a greased steam-proof dish.
6. Steam for 20 minutes and serve warm.

FAQs:
– Can I use dried fruit instead of goji berries? Absolutely! Feel free to switch for your favorite dried fruit.
– How to store leftovers? Keep covered in the fridge and re-steam before serving.

Steamed Egg Cake with Goji Berries

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:31 AM

11. Ginger Milk Pudding

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 11. Ginger Milk Pudding 1

Craving a dessert that’s both comforting and unique? Ginger Milk Pudding combines the spicy warmth of ginger with the rich creaminess of milk, making it a soothing dish. This pudding is not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to warm up on chilly evenings. Its silky texture and subtle sweetness are sure to please anyone looking for a cozy treat.

Enjoy this comforting dessert that’s perfect for sharing!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons ginger juice
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon gelatin

Instructions:
1. Heat milk and sugar in a saucepan until warm.
2. Stir in ginger juice and sprinkle gelatin.
3. Mix until fully dissolved and pour into serving dishes.
4. Chill for a few hours until set.

FAQs:
– Can I adjust the ginger amount? Yes, feel free to add more for a spicier flavor.
– How do I serve it? Drizzle with honey for added sweetness if desired.

Ginger Milk Pudding

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:30 AM

12. Chinese Herbal Rice Cake

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 12. Chinese Herbal Rice Cake 1

In the mood for a traditional yet unique dessert? Chinese Herbal Rice Cake combines the chewy texture of rice cake with the aromatic flavors of various herbs. This dessert not only offers a delightful culinary experience but also comes with potential health benefits from the herbs used. Served in slices or small squares, it’s a fun dessert that holds cultural significance, often enjoyed during celebrations.

Experience the rich heritage of this treat while enjoying its delicious taste!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup assorted herbs (like goji berries and red dates)
– 1/4 cup sugar

Instructions:
1. Mix glutinous rice flour with water and sugar until smooth.
2. Stir in the assorted herbs thoroughly.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased mold and steam for 40 minutes.
4. Let it cool, slice, and serve.

FAQs:
– Can I adjust the sweetness? Yes, feel free to modify sugar to your taste.
– Is it suitable for vegans? Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan-friendly!

Chinese Herbal Rice Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 9:31 AM

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🍡

BEGINNER

Try Matcha Mochi

Start with Matcha Red Bean Mochi for a beginner-friendly dessert that combines traditional flavors with a chewy texture.

🥥

QUICK WIN

Explore Tapioca Pudding

Make Coconut Tapioca Pudding for a quick, refreshing dessert that highlights light and tropical flavors.

🍵

PRO TIP

Infuse with Herbs

Incorporate herbal elements like in Herbal Lychee Jelly to elevate the health benefits and flavor profile of your desserts.

🍯

ESSENTIAL

Sweeten Naturally

Use honey syrup in desserts like Almond Tofu to add natural sweetness while keeping flavors light and healthy.

🥔

ADVANCED

Experiment with Sweet Potatoes

Try making Sweet Potato Balls to add a unique twist and nutritional value to your dessert repertoire.

🍚

WARNING

Master Rice Cake Techniques

Learn to prepare Chinese Herbal Rice Cake for a sophisticated dessert that showcases traditional preparation methods.

Conclusion

12 Chinese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - Conclusion 1

Chinese desserts are a beautiful blend of tradition, culture, and health. Each recipe here offers a unique experience, combining lightness with authentic flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether it’s the soothing warmth of ginger or the refreshing zest of mango, these desserts are perfect for any occasion. Try making these recipes at home and share them with your loved ones – they may just become your new favorites!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these 12 chinese dessert recipes light and traditional, and how do herbal infusions influence flavor?

These desserts lean into light textures, gentle sweetness, and ingredients kissed by tradition. They stay true to traditional Chinese sweets while keeping flavor bright and calories friendly, which is why they fit light dessert ideas.

Herbal infusions like chrysanthemum, osmanthus, goji berries, and ginger infuse aroma and subtle sweetness without heavy dairy. To use them at home, steep the herb in hot water or warmed milk, strain, then fold the infused liquid into your dessert base or drizzle as a finishing touch. For example, chrysanthemum tea adds floral notes to jelly; osmanthus syrup sweetens a rice-based pudding with a fragrance reminiscent of the season. Pro tip: choose one herb per recipe and keep sweetness modest to preserve the authentic Chinese flavors and texture. This contributes to chinese dessert recipes that feel refined yet approachable.

What are practical tips to make these authentic Chinese treats at home using easy Asian desserts techniques?

Start with pantry-friendly ingredients common in many households: red beans, lotus seeds, black sesame paste, rice flour, coconut milk, goji berries. Use simple steps: 1) steam for light textures; 2) chill to set without heavy fats; 3) use agar-agar or kanten for plant-based gels (vegan). Switch sugar with honey or date syrup for natural sweetness. These methods align with easy Asian desserts and help you recreate authentic Chinese treats at home.

Quick tips: use a blender to smooth pastes, use silicone molds for neat portions, and refrigerate briefly to set.

Are these chinese dessert recipes suitable for vegan, gluten-free, or lower-sugar diets?

Yes, many are naturally vegan when you use plant milks (soy, almond, coconut) and avoid animal products; gluten-free when you use rice flour, tapioca, or cornstarch instead of wheat; and lower-sugar when you balance natural sweetness with fruit, honey, or rock sugar. If a recipe uses gelatin, substitute with agar-agar or carrageenan. Always check ingredient lists for hidden gluten or dairy. These are examples of light dessert ideas that cater to common dietary needs while keeping the spirit of traditional Chinese sweets.

Which recipes from the collection are quickest to prepare for a quick-sweet craving?

Several items in this set are designed for speed: no-bake herbal jelly cups, simple fruit infusions with a light syrup, or quick almond tofu using pre-made almond milk. Expect start-to-serve times around 10–25 minutes, plus a brief chilling period if needed. These are perfect examples of easy Asian desserts that still feel like authentic Chinese treats and fit into light dessert ideas when time is tight.

What pairing ideas or serving tips enhance the flavor of these light Chinese desserts?

Enhance with a cup of fragrant tea, like jasmine, chrysanthemum, or a light oolong to balance sweetness. Serve in small bowls or cups, garnish with edible flowers, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sesame oil for depth. Temperature matters: some desserts are best cold, others warm; you can even pair a warm steamed pudding with a cool fruit gel for contrast. These tips help you present them as asian pastry recipes and light dessert ideas that pair beautifully with tea or a multi-course meal.

Related Topics

Chinese dessert recipes

traditional Chinese sweets

light dessert ideas

herbal infusions

easy Asian desserts

authentic Chinese treats

healthy desserts

Asian pastry recipes

quick desserts

beginner friendly

seasonal flavors

easy recipes

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