Vietnamese cuisine doesn’t focus heavily on traditional desserts, but you’ll still find a variety of sweet options to satisfy your cravings. Most restaurants primarily serve ice cream and fresh fruit, though upscale international eateries may feature desserts like tiramisu. If you’re looking for something sweeter, your best bet is to explore local bakeries—typically within walking distance in any city—or street vendors, where you can discover a range of Vietnamese sweets, from candied fruits to French-inspired cakes and pastries in tourist hotspots.

Popular Local Sweets

One of the most distinctive Vietnamese sweets is banh com, a green-colored treat made by wrapping pounded glutinous rice around a sweet green bean paste filling. This chewy delight is visually striking and very popular among locals. Another specialty is banh deo, or “earth cake,” typically available during the mid-autumn festival. It features a unique combination of sweetened fruits, sesame, lotus seeds, and savory pork fat for an unexpected, yet delicious, contrast of flavors.

For a street snack, fritters are beloved by children. You’ll find vendors selling banh chuoi (banana fritters) and banh chuoi khoai (a mixture of banana and sweet potato fritters) outside schools and markets. These crispy treats make for a quick and satisfying indulgence.

Ice Cream and Che

In Vietnam, ice cream is a popular option for those with a sweet tooth. Vendors throughout the cities offer tubs or sticks in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or green tea. However, for the best quality, it’s advisable to purchase from larger, well-established vendors rather than street hawkers. In places like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can also find European- and American-style ice cream parlors, offering a wider selection of international flavors.

A growing trend in ice cream parlors is the availability of yogurts, often served as a refreshing dessert alongside or instead of ice cream.

Another refreshing treat, especially on hot days, is che, a sweet dessert that combines taro flour, green beans, and various fruits, jellies, and even sweetcorn or potatoes. Served over ice, che offers a cool, sugary fix that’s perfect for the warm Vietnamese climate. It’s commonly found at local markets where vendors serve up this chilled delight.

Conclusion

While Vietnam may not have an extensive array of traditional desserts, its sweet offerings—from vibrant snacks like banh com to refreshing ice cream and che—provide plenty of options for those seeking a taste of local sweetness. Whether you visit bakeries, street stalls, or trendy dessert spots, Vietnam’s sweet treats offer a delightful end to any meal or a satisfying snack during the day.