12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors

Linda S. Smith

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12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors

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When it comes to desserts, sometimes you just want something light and refreshing, right? That’s why I created this post about 12 Vietnamese dessert recipes that celebrate traditional flavors without being overly sweet. These recipes are not only delightful but also a healthier alternative, using natural sweeteners that let the ingredients shine through.

If you love exploring unique flavors and are interested in healthy sweets, this post is for you. Whether you’re a fan of Vietnamese sweets or you’re just looking for new Asian dessert ideas, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. These dishes bring the essence of Vietnam right to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a taste of the tropics.

By the end of this post, you’ll have a collection of recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. From the creamy richness of coconut milk desserts to the vibrant freshness of tropical fruit desserts, you’ll discover a variety of options that are both delicious and nourishing. So, get ready to whip up some delightful treats that will impress your family and friends while keeping things light and healthy!

Let’s dive into these simple yet flavorful recipes that will brighten up your dessert menu and bring a touch of Vietnam into your home.

Key Takeaways

– Explore 12 traditional Vietnamese dessert recipes that are perfect for light indulgence.

– Each recipe uses natural sweeteners, making them healthier options compared to typical desserts.

– Discover a variety of textures and flavors, from creamy coconut to fresh tropical fruits.

– Learn how to prepare delightful sweets like Che Ba Mau and Banh Flan with simple ingredients.

– Enjoy these desserts any time of the year, satisfying your sweet tooth without guilt.

Contents

1. Che Ba Mau – Three Color Dessert

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 1. Che Ba Mau - Three Color Dessert 1

Craving something fun and colorful to satisfy your sweet tooth? Che Ba Mau, or Three Color Dessert, is a delightful treat that combines vibrant layers of mung beans, red beans, and green jelly, all crowned with luscious coconut milk and crushed ice. Each layer offers a unique taste and texture, making every spoonful a playful experience.

This dessert not only dazzles the eyes but also packs a nutritious punch with fiber and protein from the beans. It’s easy to prepare and makes a perfect activity to enjoy with family and friends, turning dessert-making into a joyous occasion.

Ingredients:
– 100g mung beans
– 100g cooked red beans
– 100g green jelly (agar-agar)
– 400ml coconut milk
– 150g sugar (or honey)
– Ice cubes

Instructions:
1. Soak mung beans overnight and steam until soft.
2. Prepare green jelly according to package instructions, adding pandan extract for color.
3. Layer mung beans, red beans, and green jelly in a tall glass.
4. Drizzle coconut milk on top and add ice cubes.
5. Serve immediately for a refreshing treat!

FAQs:
– Can I prepare this dessert in advance? Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for the best texture.

Che Ba Mau – Three Color Dessert

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:21 PM

2. Banh Chuoi Nuong – Vietnamese Banana Cake

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 2. Banh Chuoi Nuong - Vietnamese Banana Cake 1

Looking for a comforting and delicious snack? Banh Chuoi Nuong is a moist Vietnamese banana cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with ripe bananas and a blend of coconut milk and rice flour, it’s a naturally sweet treat that’s both hearty and healthy.

This cake is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor, making it a delightful option for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-day snack. Its dense yet fluffy texture paired with the fragrance of bananas will surely brighten your day.

Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas (mashed)
– 200ml coconut milk
– 100g rice flour
– 50g sugar (or honey)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, coconut milk, and sugar until smooth.
3. Gradually stir in rice flour, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
5. Bake for about 45 minutes until golden on top.
6. Cool slightly before cutting into slices and serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use regular flour instead of rice flour? Yes, but it may change the texture slightly.

Fun fact: Banh Chuoi Nuong uses ripe bananas and coconut milk for natural sweetness. That means you can satisfy cravings in your vietnamese recipes dessert collection without extra sugar. Try a slice for breakfast or a mid-day treat and taste the comforting, fragrant banana goodness.

Banh Chuoi Nuong – Vietnamese Banana Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:21 PM

3. Xoi Vo – Sticky Rice with Mung Beans

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 3. Xoi Vo - Sticky Rice with Mung Beans 1

Craving a comforting and satisfying dish? Xoi Vo is a delightful Vietnamese dessert made from sticky rice and mung beans. This dish beautifully blends sweet and savory flavors, creating a unique taste experience that will fill you up.

With its chewy texture and creamy mung beans, Xoi Vo is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert, especially when topped with a drizzle of coconut milk. It’s a simple yet indulgent treat that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:
– 200g glutinous rice (soaked overnight)
– 100g mung beans (soaked and steamed)
– 200ml coconut milk
– 50g sugar (or honey)
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the soaked rice, then steam for about 20 minutes until tender.
2. Steam the mung beans until soft and mash lightly.
3. Combine steamed rice, mung beans, sugar, and salt until well mixed.
4. Serve warm with coconut milk drizzled on top.

FAQs:
– Can I use other types of beans? Yes, you can substitute with red or black beans for variety.

Fun fact: Xoi Vo uses just 2 core ingredients—sticky rice and mung beans—and still delivers a creamy, indulgent finish with coconut milk. This vietnamese recipes dessert proves simple, comforting flavors can shine in under 30 minutes.

Xoi Vo – Sticky Rice with Mung Beans

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:22 PM

4. Banh Flan – Vietnamese Coconut Caramel Custard

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 4. Banh Flan - Vietnamese Coconut Caramel Custard 1

In need of a luxurious treat? Banh Flan is a silky Vietnamese custard that’s both light and indulgent. Topped with a rich layer of caramel made from coconut sugar, this dessert offers a unique flavor twist that enhances every bite.

Perfect for special occasions or just to satisfy your sweet cravings, Banh Flan is a delightful harmony of flavors and textures, with the coconut milk adding an exotic touch that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 400ml coconut milk
– 100g sugar (or coconut sugar)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
2. In a saucepan, dissolve sugar in water over medium heat until caramelized.
3. Pour the caramel into a mold and let it set.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, coconut milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
5. Pour the custard mixture into the caramel-coated mold.
6. Bake in a water bath for about 40 minutes until set.
7. Cool before serving and invert to reveal the caramel layer.

FAQs:
– Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk? Yes, but the flavor will be different.

Banh Flan – Vietnamese Coconut Caramel Custard

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:20 PM

Dessert Name Main Ingredients Cost Preparation Time
Che Ba Mau Mung beans, red beans, jelly $47.57 30 mins
Banh Chuoi Nuong Ripe bananas, coconut milk $49.99 45 mins
Xoi Vo Glutinous rice, mung beans $29.72 30 mins
Banh Flan Eggs, coconut milk $23.99 40 mins
Che Thai Mango, jackfruit, longan $27.18 20 mins
Sinh To Banana, mango, coconut milk $437.75 10 mins
Kem Dua Coconut milk, sugar $36.34 4 hours

5. Che Thai – Tropical Fruit Salad with Coconut Cream

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 5. Che Thai - Tropical Fruit Salad with Coconut Cream 1

Feeling hot and in need of something refreshing? Che Thai is a vibrant tropical fruit salad that’s as delicious as it is colorful. With a medley of fruits like mango, jackfruit, and longan, this dessert bursts with flavor and freshness, making it a perfect treat on a warm day.

Light, naturally sweet, and packed with vitamins, Che Thai is a healthy way to indulge in tropical goodness. The creamy coconut dressing adds richness without overpowering the fresh fruit flavors.

Ingredients:
– 1 mango (cubed)
– 1 ripe jackfruit (shredded)
– 100g longan (peeled)
– 200ml coconut cream
– 50g sugar (or honey)
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Prepare all fruits by peeling, cutting, and removing seeds.
2. In a bowl, mix coconut cream, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Toss all the fruits together gently in a large bowl.
4. Drizzle the coconut cream dressing over the fruit and mix lightly.
5. Serve fresh for a refreshing dessert experience.

FAQs:
– Can I add other fruits? Absolutely! Pineapple and papaya would also be great additions.

Che Thai – Tropical Fruit Salad with Coconut Cream

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:23 PM

6. Sinh To – Vietnamese Fruit Smoothie

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 6. Sinh To - Vietnamese Fruit Smoothie 1

Craving something cool and fruity? Sinh To is a delightful Vietnamese fruit smoothie that’s perfect any time of day. Blended with fresh seasonal fruits and often enriched with yogurt or coconut milk, this smoothie is a refreshing and nutritious option, whether for breakfast or dessert.

Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a fun way to sneak more fruits into your diet. Enjoy the natural sweetness without any guilt, making it a healthier choice compared to standard smoothies.

Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1 mango (cubed)
– 200ml coconut milk or yogurt
– 1 tbsp honey (optional)
– Ice cubes

Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine banana, mango, coconut milk, and honey.
2. Add ice cubes for a chilled smoothie.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour into glasses and serve with a slice of fruit on the rim.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen fruit? Yes, frozen fruit will make the smoothie even creamier.

Sinh To – Vietnamese Fruit Smoothie

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:24 PM

7. Banh Bep – Vietnamese Coconut Pancakes

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 7. Banh Bep - Vietnamese Coconut Pancakes 1

Looking for a delightful snack? Banh Bep are charming coconut pancakes that offer a crispy edge and a soft center. Made from rice flour and coconut milk, these pancakes provide a unique flavor that is rich and satisfying. Often filled with sweet mung bean paste or topped with shredded coconut, they are a treat for the senses.

Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, Banh Bep showcases the lightness of Vietnamese sweets while delivering a comforting bite. The combination of coconut and mung beans is sure to win you over.

Ingredients:
– 200g rice flour
– 200ml coconut milk
– 50g sugar (or honey)
– A pinch of salt
– Mung bean paste for filling (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Heat a non-stick pan and pour a ladle of batter into it, spreading evenly.
3. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges crisp up.
4. If using, add a spoonful of mung bean paste on top and fold the pancake.
5. Remove and serve warm, topped with shredded coconut.

FAQs:
– Can I prepare the batter in advance? Yes, but use it within a day for optimal texture.

❝ Fun fact: Banh Bep are a quick Vietnamese dessert—made with rice flour and coconut milk, they fry in minutes for a light, crispy edge and a soft center. Pro tip: pair them with mung bean paste or shredded coconut to elevate your Vietnamese recipes dessert routine.

Banh Bep – Vietnamese Coconut Pancakes

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:23 PM

8. Banh Da Lon – Layered Coconut Jelly Cake

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 8. Banh Da Lon - Layered Coconut Jelly Cake 1

In the mood for something visually stunning? Banh Da Lon is a unique Vietnamese dessert that features layers of colorful coconut jelly. Made from rice flour and coconut milk, this treat is not only eye-catching but also delicious, with each layer infused with natural colors from pandan and other ingredients.

With its smooth and stretchy texture, Banh Da Lon is a fun dessert that’s best served chilled, making it perfect for warm days. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration for the eyes and palate alike.

Ingredients:
– 200g rice flour
– 400ml coconut milk
– 150g sugar (or honey)
– A few drops of pandan extract (for green layer)
– Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar.
2. Divide the mixture into two bowls; add pandan extract to one for color.
3. Pour a layer of the green mixture into a greased mold and steam for about 10 minutes.
4. Add the white mixture on top and steam again for another 10 minutes.
5. Repeat until all layers are done.
6. Once cooled, slice and serve chilled.

FAQs:
– Can I use other flavors? Yes, you can incorporate fruit purees for added flavor.

Banh Da Lon – Layered Coconut Jelly Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:24 PM

9. Trung Hoa – Vietnamese Egg Pudding

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 9. Trung Hoa - Vietnamese Egg Pudding 1

Craving a rich and creamy dessert? Trung Hoa is a delightful Vietnamese egg pudding that combines the luxurious texture of eggs with coconut milk. This custardy treat is sweetened with natural sugars, making it an indulgent yet light dessert that’s hard to resist.

Easy to prepare and perfect for impressing guests, Trung Hoa can be served warm or cold. A drizzle of coconut sauce elevates its flavor, adding to the overall experience.

Ingredients:
– 4 eggs
– 200ml coconut milk
– 100g sugar (or honey)
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, coconut milk, sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a small baking dish or ramekins.
4. Bake in a water bath for about 30 minutes or until set.
5. Cool slightly before serving; drizzle with coconut sauce if desired.

FAQs:
– Can I add flavors like vanilla? Yes, vanilla extract would be a lovely addition.

Trung Hoa – Vietnamese Egg Pudding

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:24 PM

10. Ruou Nep – Sticky Rice Wine

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 10. Ruou Nep - Sticky Rice Wine 1

Looking for something unique to finish off a meal? Ruou Nep is a traditional Vietnamese dessert that combines sticky rice with a hint of sweetness. The fermentation process gives it a slightly tangy and sweet flavor, making it a fun and interesting dessert option.

Despite its light alcohol content, Ruou Nep is refreshing and pairs wonderfully with chewy sticky rice. It’s a delightful way to add a bit of fun and tradition to your dessert experience.

Ingredients:
– 300g sticky rice
– 60g sugar (or honey)
– 20g yeast (sticky rice yeast)
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Soak sticky rice overnight and drain.
2. Steam the rice for about 30 minutes until cooked.
3. Allow the rice to cool slightly and mix in sugar, yeast, and salt.
4. Place in a sealed container and let it ferment for 24 hours.
5. Serve with fruits for a delightful pairing.

FAQs:
– Is this dessert alcoholic? Yes, it contains a small amount of alcohol from fermentation.

Ruou Nep – Sticky Rice Wine

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:26 PM

11. Sua Chua – Vietnamese Yogurt

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 11. Sua Chua - Vietnamese Yogurt 1

Craving a refreshing dessert? Sua Chua, or Vietnamese yogurt, is a creamy and tangy treat that’s perfect for hot days. Made with simple ingredients, this yogurt is naturally sweetened and pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits or a drizzle of honey.

Popular in the summer, Sua Chua is served chilled, providing a cooling effect that makes it an ideal dessert to satisfy your cravings guilt-free. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up, it’s a delightful way to indulge.

Ingredients:
– 500ml milk (whole or low-fat)
– 100g yogurt starter
– 50g sugar (or honey)

Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, heat milk until warm but not boiling.
2. Stir in sugar until dissolved.
3. Add the yogurt starter and mix well.
4. Pour into jars and cover them.
5. Place in a warm area to ferment for 12 hours.
6. Chill in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use non-dairy milk? Yes, but the texture may vary.

Sua Chua – Vietnamese Yogurt

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:26 PM

12. Kem Dua – Coconut Ice Cream

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - 12. Kem Dua - Coconut Ice Cream 1

Feeling the heat and craving something sweet? Kem Dua is a delicious coconut ice cream that captures the tropical essence of Vietnam. Made with fresh coconut milk, this treat is rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying, perfect for hot summer days.

The flavor of coconut shines through, especially with bits of coconut flesh adding texture. It’s a simple yet indulgent dessert that you can easily make at home, bringing a taste of the tropics right into your kitchen.

Ingredients:
– 400ml coconut milk
– 100g sugar (or honey)
– 100g coconut flesh (shredded)
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix coconut milk, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
2. Stir in shredded coconut.
3. Pour into a container and freeze for about 4 hours, stirring every hour for creaminess.
4. Scoop and serve as a delightful dessert.

FAQs:
– Can I use canned coconut milk? Yes, canned works well for this recipe.

Kem Dua – Coconut Ice Cream

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 4:25 PM

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🍧

BEGINNER

Explore Che Ba Mau

Start with Che Ba Mau, a colorful three-color dessert that’s easy to prepare and highlights traditional flavors.

🍌

QUICK WIN

Try Banh Chuoi Nuong

Bake Banh Chuoi Nuong for a delicious Vietnamese banana cake that uses natural sweeteners for a healthier option.

🍚

ESSENTIAL

Make Xoi Vo

Prepare Xoi Vo, a sticky rice dish with mung beans, for a delightful dessert that’s both filling and flavorful.

🥥

PRO TIP

Craft Coconut Flan

Elevate your dessert game with Banh Flan, a creamy coconut caramel custard that impresses guests and family alike.

🍓

ADVANCED

Blend Sinh To Smoothies

Experiment with Sinh To, a refreshing Vietnamese fruit smoothie using seasonal fruits and coconut milk for a nutritious treat.

🍦

QUICK WIN

Chill with Kem Dua

Make Kem Dua, a simple coconut ice cream, for a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for hot days and easy to customize.

Conclusion

12 Vietnamese Dessert Recipes with Light Traditional Flavors - Conclusion 1

These twelve Vietnamese dessert recipes offer a delightful journey through the natural sweetness of the region’s ingredients. From the unique textures to the light traditional flavors, each dish brings a taste of Vietnam to your table. Embracing healthy sweeteners and fresh produce, these desserts are not only satisfying but also nourishing.

Experimenting with these treats will allow you to appreciate the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam while enjoying guilt-free indulgence. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to sweeten up your day with these delicious Vietnamese sweets!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Vietnamese desserts light and healthy compared with other Asian sweets?

Vietnamese desserts often rely on fresh fruit, beans, and natural sweeteners. In these recipes you’ll find Vietnamese desserts built with natural sweeteners like palm sugar or honey and limited coconut milk. They tend to feature traditional dessert recipes that satisfy without overload. Practical tip: start by cutting added sugar by a third and dilute coconut milk with water to keep creaminess with fewer calories.

Which ingredients are most common in these healthy Vietnamese desserts with natural sweeteners?

Look for tropical fruit desserts, mung beans, jelly bases, and a touch of coconut milk with natural sweeteners like palm sugar or honey. For quick wins, try mango with coconut milk or mung bean chè with a little palm sugar. It’s a great fit for Asian dessert ideas and sits nicely in any vietnamese recipes dessert collection.

Are these desserts suitable for dairy-free and gluten-free diets?

Yes. Many are naturally dairy-free thanks to coconut milk; for gluten-free, swap wheat flour for rice flour or tapioca and avoid glutinous rice if needed. Always check toppings and sauces for gluten. These options align with traditional dessert recipes that respect dietary needs.

What are some beginner-friendly ideas that use coconut milk and tropical fruits?

Here are easy starters: Mango with a light drizzle of coconut milk, fresh tropical fruit salad with a hint of coconut and lime, chè-inspired mung bean or lotus seed desserts with a touch of palm sugar, and agar-agar jelly with coconut milk and fruit. Each uses coconut milk desserts and tropical fruit desserts ideas and is simple for beginners. It’s a nice entry into Vietnamese sweets and Asian dessert ideas.

How can I incorporate these vietnamese recipes dessert ideas into a weekly meal plan?

Plan for 2-3 small servings per week, pairing dessert with protein or fiber to stabilize blood sugar. Choose options that use natural sweeteners and coconut milk for balance, and keep portions around 1/2 to 1 cup. Rotate among Asian dessert ideas to keep things fresh, and treat these traditional dessert recipes as a weekly indulgence rather than a daily habit. This fits well in a broader vietnamese recipes dessert collection.

Related Topics

vietnamese recipes dessert

healthy desserts

traditional flavors

natural sweeteners

coconut milk desserts

tropical fruit desserts

easy dessert recipes

Asian sweets

light desserts

vegan options

dessert for parties

quick treats

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