Top 10 Desserts in Hanoi You Must Try

Hanoi's cuisine is an unforgettable highlight for any traveler. From rustic street food to refined traditional dishes, each flavor tells a story of the city's culture and people. However, your culinary adventure isn't complete without exploring its enchanting world of desserts. These sweet treats are not only diverse in flavor but also hold the cherished childhood memories of countless generations. This guide will introduce you to the list of the top 10 desserts in Hanoi that you absolutely must try to fully experience the city's culinary essence.

The best desserts in Hanoi

Sweet soup (Chè)

Chè is one of the most beloved Vietnamese desserts in Hanoi, a symbol of traditional sweet cuisine. The city is a treasure trove of delicious variations. This sweet soup often features ingredients like lotus seeds, beans, tapioca pearls, jelly, sticky rice, or coconut milk. It is served warm in winter or iced in summer. In Hanoi, some of the most famous sweet soups are chè bưởi (pomelo sweet soup), chè đỗ đen (black bean sweet soup), chè đậu đỏ (red bean sweet soup), and chè sen long nhãn (lotus seed and longan sweet soup). You can find chè in bustling alleyways, served in colorful small bowls, often prepared from family recipes passed down for generations. Each spoonful offers a journey into the heart of Vietnamese sweet traditions.

Tofu pudding (Tào phớ)

Tào phớ, also known as tofu pudding with syrup, is a simple yet delicate Vietnamese dessert and a must-try among the desserts in Hanoi. Made from fresh coagulated soy milk, it has a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It is served with a fragrant ginger and brown sugar syrup, sometimes topped with lotus seeds or roasted peanuts. Its subtle balance of sweetness and spicy warmth is delightful. Some versions add suong sao (black herbal jelly), creating a pleasant contrast between the tender tofu and the firm, slightly bitter jelly. As an icon of Hanoi's sweet street food, it's often enjoyed on the street, served in small, steaming bowls in winter or chilled in summer. More than just a traditional sweet, for many Vietnamese people, tào phớ is a nostalgic childhood memory, linked to street vendors and the cozy atmosphere of the old quarter.

Sticky rice with ice cream (Kem xôi)

Kem xôi is a classic Vietnamese dessert that offers a unique harmony of textures and flavors: creamy ice cream and sticky rice fragrant with pandan leaves. Served in a traditional bowl or a colorful glass, the slightly warm and sweet sticky rice blends with the cool ice cream, creating a comforting and refreshing experience. Often topped with fresh shredded coconut, dried coconut flakes, and roasted peanuts, this dessert is loved for its tropical aromas and originality. In Hanoi, kem xôi is enjoyed at small stalls or from street vendors, particularly in the Old Quarter. More than a sweet treat, it embodies the Vietnamese art of combining simple ingredients to create a delicate harmony of flavors and sensations.

Trang Tien ice cream

Trang Tien ice cream isn't just a dessert; it's a cultural landmark and an iconic Hanoi dessert since 1958. This classic treat has captivated generations with its simple yet unforgettable flavors, such as vanilla, cocoa, coconut, and the distinctive cốm (young green rice). Often served on a stick or in a crunchy cone, Trang Tien ice cream is a quintessential part of the Hanoi experience. Enjoying it while standing or strolling near Hoan Kiem Lake, just as generations of Hanoians have done, creates a friendly and timeless atmosphere.

Vietnamese caramel flan (Caramen)

Caramen, the Vietnamese version of flan, is a silky and delicate dessert highly cherished by Hanoians. Made from eggs, milk, and caramelized sugar, it's famous for its smooth texture and subtly sweet flavor. In Hanoi, this sweet street food often comes in original variations: served with black coffee for a touch of bitterness, topped with fragrant coconut milk, or even with tapioca pearls and herbal jelly for added freshness. It's enjoyed in small family stalls or at bustling markets, often served in traditional small ceramic cups. More than just a dessert, caramen in Hanoi represents a fusion of French culinary tradition and Vietnamese creativity, offering a sweet treat that is both familiar and unique.

Mixed fruits (Hoa quả dầm)

Hoa quả dầm, literally "mixed fruits," is one of Hanoi's most refreshing and colorful desserts, popular with both locals and travelers, especially on hot summer days. It consists of a generous mix of diced tropical fruits—mango, papaya, dragon fruit, watermelon, or longan—doused in sweetened condensed milk or yogurt. Served with crushed ice, it offers a burst of freshness and a harmonious balance between sweetness and the natural acidity of the fruits. Tapioca pearls or jelly can be added for extra texture. In the Old Quarter, hoa quả dầm stalls attract young people and families alike, creating a convivial atmosphere where people enjoy a bowl of vitamins while soaking in the vibrant Hanoi streets.

Sweet glutinous rice balls (Bánh trôi tàu)

Bánh trôi tàu is a traditional warm Vietnamese dessert, especially popular during Hanoi's chilly winter days. It consists of small glutinous rice balls, sometimes filled with mung bean paste or black sesame, served in a fragrant ginger and brown sugar syrup. The chewy sweetness of the dumplings contrasts with the spicy warmth of the ginger, offering a comforting and delicious sensation. Made to order at small street stalls, this sweet street food evokes childhood memories for many and embodies the Vietnamese art of combining simplicity with delicacy.

Black sticky rice yogurt (Sữa chua nếp cẩm)

Black sticky rice yogurt is one of Northern Vietnam's most beloved desserts, especially in Hanoi. It combines the tangy sweetness of creamy yogurt with the subtle fragrance and chewy texture of steamed black sticky rice. Served in a glass or bowl, it's best enjoyed chilled, sometimes enhanced with a drizzle of coconut milk for extra creaminess. The balance between the yogurt's light acidity and the sticky rice's sweetness creates a harmony of flavors and textures that appeals to both locals and visitors. In Hanoi's lively streets, this little treat is perfect for cooling down while discovering the richness of Vietnamese cuisine. Another popular variation is herbal jelly yogurt or firm yogurt.

Vietnamese steamed layer cake (Bánh da lợn)

Vietnamese steamed layer cake is a traditional Vietnamese cake with a soft and slightly chewy texture, popular throughout the country, including in Hanoi. Made mainly from rice flour, tapioca flour, coconut milk, and sugar, it is distinguished by its alternating layers of colors and flavors, often flavored with pandan leaves for a green hue and mung beans for a yellow color. Its thin-layered shape resembles pig skin, hence its unique name. Bánh da lợn is enjoyed at room temperature, with each bite offering a subtle blend of sweetness, vegetal fragrance, and the richness of coconut milk. This iconic dessert, both simple and refined, perfectly embodies Vietnamese culinary craftsmanship and the harmony of traditional flavors. It has been ranked among the 100 best desserts in Asia, confirming its appeal far beyond Vietnam's borders.

Young green rice cakes (Bánh cốm)

Young green rice cake is a traditional Hanoi sweet, especially popular during festivals and ceremonies. It is made of lightly toasted young green glutinous rice (cốm) that envelops a sweet mung bean paste, creating a subtle contrast between the crispiness of the rice and the softness of the filling. Its soft green color and delicate aroma evoke the freshness of spring and Vietnamese nature. Presented as small round cakes and often wrapped in banana leaves, bánh cốm is a delight for both the eyes and the palate. This dessert embodies the refinement and creativity of traditional Hanoi patisserie while maintaining a strong connection to Vietnamese culture and childhood memories.

Where to find the delicious desserts in Hanoi

After presenting Hanoi's unmissable sweets, let's explore some places where you can enjoy them. Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, these spots are easy to find and are famous for their traditional flavors and clean, welcoming settings. These traditional dessert shops are loved by Vietnamese people and foreign visitors alike.

Loc Tai House

• Address: 76 Hang Dieu, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

This family-run shop is a favourite place to enjoy famous traditional Hanoi desserts in retro atmosphere. Every corner is decorated with antiques, making customers feel like they've stepped into Hanoi life from a bygone era. Here, you can taste various types of Vietnamese sweet soup, as well as sweet sticky rice balls and Vietnamese steamed layer cake.

Jelly Bean

• Address: 28 Quang Trung, Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Jelly Bean has elevated a simple Vietnamese dessert into a creative experience. Unlike traditional street stalls that serve a single style of tào phớ, this shop is well-regarded for its wide variety of unique toppings, from herbal jelly to fresh fruits and even flavored syrups. The smooth, silky texture of the tofu pudding itself serves as the perfect base for the many customizable options. While some find the prices slightly higher than traditional street vendors, most agree that the clean, comfortable space and extensive menu make it a worthwhile experience, especially for those looking to try a modern twist on a classic Hanoi dessert.

Sinh to Hoa Beo

• Address: 17 To Tich, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Sinh to Hoa Beo is a renowned street stall famous for its generous bowls of fresh fruits mixed with sweetened condensed milk and crushed ice. Many visitors praise the fresh fruit and the sweet, creamy blend of condensed milk and ice that creates a refreshing and satisfying dessert, especially on a hot day. While the space is small and can be very crowded, especially on weekends, the lively street-side atmosphere is a key part of the experience. It's a classic spot that captures the essence of Hanoi Old Quarter street food and is a favorite among both locals and tourists looking for a true taste of local fruit desserts. The price is from 30.000 - 65.000 VND.

Caramen Duong Hoa

• Address: 29 Hang Than, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

As one of the most famous caramen (flan) shops in Hanoi with a history spanning over 30 years, Caramen Duong Hoa is a must-visit for enthusiasts of this creamy dessert. Reviews consistently praise the shop's classic, no-frills approach, which allows the rich, silky texture and subtle sweetness of the flan itself to shine. Not the dated space, but the taste and quality of the caramen are what truly matter.

Kem xoi Thu Nga

• Address: 8 Hai Ba Trung, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (near Hanoi Opera House)

• Kem xôi Thu Nga is known for its delicious blend of creamy ice cream and fragrant sticky rice.

Kem xoi Thu Nga is a well-known spot for a unique and memorable dessert experience. Kem xoi here perfectly balances the creamy coldness of ice cream with the warm, fragrant sweetness of pandan sticky rice. This shop is not famous widely but a favorite among those looking for an authentic, classic dessert in Hanoi that perfectly blends tradition with a modern street-food flair. The simple setting allows the quality of the dessert to speak for itself, attracting both locals and curious visitors.

Kem Trang Tien

• Address: 35 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Located at 35 Trang Tien Street, Trang Tien ice cream has been a quintessential dessert in Hanoi for decades. Famous for its simple but tasty ice cream sticks, it charms both locals and travelers with its traditional flavors like cocoa, coconut, or cốm (young green rice). The experience of enjoying a stick of this Hanoi ice cream is a tradition in itself. The unique atmosphere of buying a cone and eating it while standing or walking outside, just like generations of Hanoians before them. 

It's an unmissable refreshing break during a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Banh com Nguyen Ninh

• Address: 11 Hang Than, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Banh com Nguyen Ninh isn't just a dessert shop; it's a living piece of Hanoi's culinary history, with a legacy spanning over 150 years. Tasting their signature bánh cốm is like experiencing a time-honored recipe in its purest form. The fact that the shop has maintained its single, original location for generations speaks volumes about its commitment to quality and tradition. For anyone seeking a truly authentic taste of Hanoi's traditional sweets, visiting this iconic shop is an unmissable destination.

Hanoi’s world of sweets is incredibly rich and diverse, offering a delicious way to explore the city's culture. These treats, from traditional delights to modern twists, are waiting for you at every corner. To get the most out of your trip, don’t just read about them; go and discover the unique flavors for yourself. Be sure to explore the Hanoi Old Quarter street food scene, where you'll find an array of classic desserts in Hanoi. Let your taste buds guide you on an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of the capital.

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