Singapore, a haven for food enthusiasts, offers a delightful array of desserts that capture the essence of its diverse culinary culture. Brace yourself for a sugary adventure as we explore some of the best desserts to savour in the Lion City.
1. Mochi Stuffed Waffles: A Fusion Delight
Singapore seems to currently be in love with waffles and so new and innovative waffle creations are constantly coming out. Uniting the chewiness of mochi with the crispiness of waffles, this unique dessert is a delightful fusion. The contrast in textures, accompanied by various fillings, makes it a must-try treat.
Where to try: Chinatown
2. Cendol: A Cooling Traditional Delight
Cendol, a traditional Southeast Asian dessert not to be missed, features pandan-flavoured rice flour jelly, coconut milk, palm sugar, and shaved ice. This cooling concoction is perfect for Singapore’s tropical climate.
Where to try: Chinatown Complex
3. Putu Piring: Steamed Perfection
These steamed rice flour cakes filled with gula melaka (palm sugar) are a local favourite. The burst of sweetness from the molten palm sugar makes each bite a heavenly experience. They recently went viral due their appearance on a Netflix show and they broke the internet dividing the region as they argue its origin. What I know is that they are single bites of absolute joy.
Where to try: Bedok Food Centre
4. Ondeh Ondeh: Gooey Perfection
These pandan-flavoured glutinous rice balls are filled with melted palm sugar and coated in grated coconut. The explosion of flavours as you bite into the gooey centre is truly a culinary delight. All elements and ingredients that you really cannot go with if combining. This is known as Klepon in Indonesia.
Where to try: Bedok Food Centre
5. Ice Cream Sandwich: Street Food Elegance
Embrace the simplicity of an Ice Cream Sandwich. Nestled between a slice of fluffy bread (or wafers), the ice cream comes in various flavours (from unique and wild to more safe and familiar), offering a sweet respite as you explore the vibrant streets of Singapore.
Where to try: uncle’s ice cream cart in chinatown or orchard road
6. Besan Ladoo: Indian Sweet Bliss
These gram flour-based sweets are a popular treat during festivals. With a nutty aroma and a melt-in-the-mouth texture, Besan Ladoo is a celebration of Indian sweets in Singapore.
Where to try: Little India
7. Japanese Soufflé Pancakes: Fluffy Decadence
Experience the cloud-like fluffiness of Japanese Soufflé Pancakes. These airy delights are served with various toppings, adding a touch of sophistication to your dessert experience.
Where to try it: Flippers or Fluff Stack
8. Min Jiang Kueh: Traditional Pancake Goodness
These thick, fluffy pancakes, often filled with ingredients like peanuts and coconut, are a beloved street food. The combination of textures and flavours is a nostalgic journey for many.
Where to try: Munchi pancakes or Mian Mian Bu Duan Peanut Pancake
9. Beancurd Pudding: Silky Smooth Elegance
Known locally as ‘tau huay,’ this silken beancurd pudding is enjoyed with a sweet syrup. Its smooth texture and mild sweetness make it a refreshing dessert choice.
Where to try it: Rocher original beancurd
10. Almond Paste: Sweet Nutty Goodness
Almond Paste, a dessert often enjoyed in Chinese cuisine, boasts a rich, nutty flavour. Served warm or chilled, it’s a comforting treat that captivates the taste buds. It is like marzipan on a plate or small bowl.
Where to try it: Chinatown Complex, Ah Chew desserts or Mei Heong Yuen Dessert
11. Grass Jelly: Herbal Infusion
Grass Jelly, made from Chinese mesona, is often served as a jelly dessert or in drinks. Its herbal undertones provide a unique and refreshing taste.
Where to try it: Chinatown Complex
12. Sweet Potato Balls: Chewy Delight
These delightful chewy balls, made from sweet potato, are often fried to perfection. They offer a delightful balance of sweetness and chewiness.
Where to try it: Chinatown Complex
Indulge your sweet tooth and embark on a dessert escapade in Singapore. From traditional favourites to innovative fusions, the city’s dessert scene promises a treat for every palate.
