Exploring the Best Chinese Restaurant Desserts in America
If you're a fan of Chinese food, you know that the culinary experience doesn't end with savory dishes. Chinese desserts have their own distinct identity, often surprising and delighting those unfamiliar with them. From delicate rice cakes to decadent pastries, these sweet treats bring a rich cultural history to the table, and the best part is that you can find them all across America. Join me as we embark on a journey to explore some of the most popular and delightful Chinese desserts in restaurants across the United States.
1. Sweet Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)
One of the most beloved Chinese desserts is the sweet sesame ball, or "Jian Dui." These fried dough balls, coated in sesame seeds and filled with a sweet red bean paste or lotus seed paste, are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Often served as a dim sum treat, they are a staple in Chinese restaurants nationwide. I first tried these delicious morsels at a local dim sum restaurant, and I was immediately hooked. Their warm, crispy exterior contrasts perfectly with the smooth, slightly sweet filling, making each bite a satisfying experience. You’ll find them on dim sum menus from New York City to San Francisco, always a favorite choice for dessert lovers.
2. Mango Pudding
Another fan favorite, especially during the hot summer months, is mango pudding. The creamy, velvety texture of this dessert, combined with the fresh and vibrant flavor of ripe mangoes, makes it an irresistible treat. Served chilled, mango pudding often comes topped with a drizzle of evaporated milk or a few fresh fruit slices. I had the pleasure of enjoying this refreshing dessert during a summer meal at a Chinese restaurant in Los Angeles, and it was the perfect way to cool off after a flavorful meal. Many restaurants put their own twist on mango pudding, sometimes adding coconut milk or even bits of tapioca for extra texture. Regardless of the variation, it's always a delightful way to end a meal.
3. Egg Tarts (Dan Tat)
Egg tarts, or "Dan Tat," are another popular Chinese dessert that has found a special place in American Chinese restaurants. These little custard-filled pastries are crispy on the outside and silky smooth on the inside. While they're often associated with Hong Kong-style dim sum, their influence stretches far beyond the borders of China. When I first tasted these tarts, I was struck by the combination of textures— the buttery, flaky crust and the soft, rich custard filling. They are the perfect balance of sweetness and lightness, making them a hit among all ages. Many Chinese bakeries and restaurants in the U.S. feature these egg tarts, often serving them fresh out of the oven for an unforgettable treat.
4. Red Bean Soup (Hong Dou Tang)
Red bean soup, or "Hong Dou Tang," is a comforting and lightly sweet dessert often enjoyed at the end of a hearty Chinese meal. While it may sound simple, the combination of sweetened red beans, sometimes paired with lotus seeds or glutinous rice balls, creates a satisfying and wholesome dish. I remember trying this dessert on a chilly evening in a cozy Chinese restaurant in Chicago, and it was exactly what I needed to warm up. The red beans are soft and subtly sweet, providing a delicate, earthy flavor that is both satisfying and nourishing. It’s the perfect dessert when you're looking for something warm and comforting.
5. Taro Coconut Tapioca Balls
Taro coconut tapioca balls are a lesser-known yet delicious Chinese dessert that combines the earthy flavor of taro with the smooth, chewy texture of tapioca pearls. Often served in a coconut milk base, this dessert is both creamy and subtly sweet, with the taro lending a gentle, nutty flavor. I had the pleasure of tasting it at a trendy Chinese fusion restaurant in New York City, where it was paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of flavors and textures made for a unique and indulgent dessert experience. It's a great choice for anyone who loves tapioca pearls but wants to try something new.
6. Sesame Seed Paste with Glutinous Rice Balls (Tang Yuan)
Tang Yuan, glutinous rice balls filled with black sesame seed paste, are a traditional Chinese dessert commonly served during the Lantern Festival and other celebrations. However, many Chinese restaurants across America offer this sweet treat year-round. The chewy rice balls, often served in a warm, sweet broth, are filled with a rich and slightly nutty sesame paste. I first encountered Tang Yuan at a Chinese restaurant in San Francisco, and it was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. The chewy exterior and the sweet, molten filling create a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, making it an unforgettable dessert.
7. Fried Banana with Ice Cream
While not strictly traditional, fried banana with ice cream has become a popular dessert in Chinese restaurants, especially those that offer a more modern, fusion-style menu. The warm, crispy fried banana pairs beautifully with the cold, creamy ice cream, making for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. The bananas are often coated in a light batter and fried until golden and crispy, then served with a generous scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. I first tried this dessert at a fusion Chinese restaurant in Miami, and it quickly became one of my favorite post-meal treats.
8. Chrysanthemum Jelly
Chrysanthemum jelly is a delicate, floral Chinese dessert made from the petals of the chrysanthemum flower. It is often served chilled and has a light, slightly herbal flavor that is refreshing and calming. I first encountered this dessert at a Chinese restaurant in Seattle, where it was served in small, elegant bowls. The jelly is firm but smooth, and the chrysanthemum flavor gives it a unique taste that is unlike anything I had tried before. If you're looking for a light, aromatic dessert to cleanse your palate after a flavorful meal, chrysanthemum jelly is a fantastic choice.
9. Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes
While mooncakes are most commonly associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival, many Chinese bakeries and restaurants in the U.S. offer them year-round. These round, dense pastries are traditionally filled with lotus seed paste and salted egg yolks, though variations can include red bean paste, taro, and other fillings. The pastry shell is thick and slightly sweet, complementing the smooth, rich filling. I’ve had the chance to try these mooncakes at a Chinese bakery in Boston, and they are truly a treat for those who enjoy a more complex, savory-sweet dessert experience. The combination of textures and flavors makes mooncakes a cherished part of Chinese culinary culture.
Chinese desserts offer a wide variety of flavors, textures, and experiences that reflect the rich history and diverse culinary traditions of China. Whether you're indulging in a traditional egg tart or exploring the innovative creations found in modern Chinese restaurants, these sweet treats provide a perfect ending to any meal. So next time you're dining at a Chinese restaurant, don't forget to save room for dessert!
