Food is one of the most delightful ways to experience different cultures, and when it comes to desserts, every country offers something uniquely delicious. From decadent pastries in Europe to tropical treats in Southeast Asia, desserts reflect a nation’s history, ingredients, and culinary creativity. If you’re a food lover or an adventurous eater, trying famous desserts from around the world should be on your culinary bucket list.
This blog brings you 20 must-try desserts from different corners of the globe — iconic sweets that are loved by locals and travelers alike. Whether you have a preference for rich, creamy treats or light, fruity delights, this list offers something for every palate.
Why Explore Global Desserts?
Desserts are more than just indulgent bites; they’re a cultural experience. Every dessert has a story, shaped by local ingredients, religious traditions, and festive celebrations. Tasting global desserts allows you to:
- Discover new flavors, textures, and ingredients
- Learn about a country’s traditions and history
- Appreciate the diversity of culinary techniques
- Experience popular street food and café culture in different regions
Let’s take a virtual trip and uncover 20 must-try desserts from around the world.
20 Famous Desserts You Should Taste At Least Once
1. Tiramisu — Italy
A classic Italian dessert made from layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, cocoa powder, and a hint of liqueur. Rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced.
Fun Fact: The name “Tiramisu” means “pick me up” in Italian, thanks to its coffee content.
2. Baklava — Turkey
A decadent pastry made with layers of filo dough, filled with crushed nuts like pistachios or walnuts, and drenched in sweet syrup or honey.
Best Enjoyed: In Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar with Turkish tea.
3. Mochi — Japan
Chewy, sweet rice cakes often filled with red bean paste or ice cream. Mochi is popular year-round and traditionally enjoyed during Japanese New Year.
Tip: Try matcha-flavored mochi for a green tea twist.
4. Pastel de Nata — Portugal
A creamy, flaky egg custard tart with a caramelized top, dusted with cinnamon. Best served warm with espresso.
Must-Try Spot: Pasteis de Belém in Lisbon.
5. Gulab Jamun — India
Deep-fried milk solids (khoya) soaked in fragrant cardamom-saffron syrup. Soft, sweet, and aromatic.
Traditionally Served: During Indian festivals and weddings.
6. Churros — Spain
Crispy fried dough pastries dusted in sugar and served with thick hot chocolate for dipping.
When to Eat: A popular Spanish breakfast or late-night snack.
7. Brigadeiro — Brazil
A beloved Brazilian treat made of condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles.
Fun Fact: Often served at birthday parties and festive events.
8. Knafeh — Middle East
A luscious dessert made with shredded pastry, filled with soft cheese, soaked in orange blossom syrup, and topped with pistachios.
Best Enjoyed: Warm, straight out of the oven.
9. Cheesecake — USA
A globally loved dessert with a creamy cheese-based filling atop a graham cracker crust, often topped with fruit or chocolate.
Must-Try Version: New York-style cheesecake.
10. Mille-Feuille — France
Also known as a “Napoleon,” this pastry features delicate layers of puff pastry and pastry cream, topped with fondant icing.
Enjoy It With: A café au lait at a Parisian café.
11. Halo-Halo — Philippines
A refreshing shaved ice dessert with a mix of sweet beans, jellies, fruit, flan, ube (purple yam), and evaporated milk.
Perfect For: Hot summer afternoons.
12. Rasgulla — India
Soft, spongy cheese balls soaked in sugar syrup. Light and satisfying.
Popular In: The Indian states of West Bengal and Odisha.
13. Pavlova — Australia/New Zealand
A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft center, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits.
Fun Fact: Named after Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova.
14. Tres Leches Cake — Mexico
A moist sponge cake soaked in three types of milk: evaporated, condensed, and whole milk, topped with whipped cream.
Best Eaten: Chilled, with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
15. Basbousa — Egypt
A sweet, semolina-based cake soaked in syrup and topped with almonds or coconut.
Traditionally Served: During Ramadan and family celebrations.
16. Loukoumades — Greece
Golden, bite-sized dough balls deep-fried and drizzled with honey and cinnamon.
Similar To: Mini doughnuts.
17. Sachertorte — Austria
A dense, rich chocolate cake layered with apricot jam and coated in dark chocolate glaze.
Iconic Spot: Hotel Sacher in Vienna.
18. Cendol — Malaysia/Indonesia
A cool dessert drink made with shaved ice, green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup.
Perfect For: Tropical climates.
19. Dulce de Leche Flan — Argentina
Creamy caramel flan with the indulgent addition of dulce de leche (sweet milk jam).
Best Eaten: After a classic Argentine asado (BBQ).
20. Sticky Toffee Pudding — United Kingdom
A moist sponge cake made with finely chopped dates, covered in a toffee sauce, and served with vanilla ice cream.
Fun Fact: One of Britain’s most iconic pub desserts.
Tips for Enjoying and Making Global Desserts
Where to Find Them:
- Local ethnic bakeries or restaurants
- International food festivals and fairs
- Popular street food stalls in their native countries
Making Them at Home:
- Source authentic ingredients like rose water, coconut milk, or condensed milk from specialty markets.
- Look for beginner-friendly recipes or video tutorials for traditional techniques.
- Invest in essential tools like a good whisk, baking pans, and ramekins.
Pair Them With:
- Turkish tea with Baklava
- Strong espresso with Tiramisu
- Matcha with Mochi
- Rich hot chocolate with Churros
Conclusion
Desserts are a universal language of celebration, indulgence, and connection. From the crisp sweetness of Greece’s Loukoumades to the tropical layers of Halo-Halo in the Philippines, every country offers a distinct sweet treat worth savoring. These 20 must-try desserts from around the world aren’t just about sugar — they’re about culture, tradition, and the simple joy of good food.
Whether you travel the globe through your taste buds or add these desserts to your future travel wish list, indulging in international sweets is a beautiful way to discover new flavors and stories. Which dessert will you try first? Share your favorites or dessert memories in the comments below!