Korean desserts offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures. From traditional treats to modern creations, there’s something for every sweet tooth.

These desserts often use ingredients like rice, red beans, and fruits to create unique tastes.

You’ll find a wide range of Korean sweets, from simple fruit dishes to complex pastries. Some are enjoyed year-round, while others are tied to specific seasons or holidays.

Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or a long-time fan, exploring these desserts can be a fun and tasty adventure.

1. Bingsu

Bingsu is a beloved Korean shaved ice dessert. You can enjoy this sweet treat year-round, but it’s especially popular in summer.

The base of bingsu is finely shaved ice made from frozen milk or cream. This gives it a light, fluffy texture like fresh snow.

You can top bingsu with various ingredients. Common choices include fresh fruit, red bean paste, condensed milk, and mochi pieces.

Making bingsu at home is simple. Freeze milk or cream, then shave it into a bowl. Add your favorite toppings and dig in!

2. Hotteok

Hotteok is a beloved Korean street food dessert. You’ll love these sweet pancakes filled with a gooey mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts.

The pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re made by stuffing a simple dough with the sweet filling, then frying until golden brown.

Be careful when eating hot hotteok! The filling can be very hot at first. Let it cool for a few minutes before taking a bite to avoid burning yourself.

You can find hotteok at street vendors and markets in Korea. It’s especially popular as a warm treat during cold winter months.

3. Mochi Ice Cream

Mochi ice cream blends Japanese and Korean flavors into a delightful treat. You’ll love the contrast between the chewy mochi exterior and the creamy ice cream inside.

To make it, wrap ice cream in a thin layer of sweet rice dough. Popular flavors include vanilla, strawberry, and green tea.

You can find mochi ice cream in many Asian grocery stores.

Try making it at home for a fun project. Use a round cutter to shape the mochi dough. Then carefully wrap it around small scoops of ice cream. Dust with cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Mochi ice cream makes a great dessert or snack. Its small size is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without overindulging.

4. Yakgwa

Yakgwa is a traditional Korean honey cookie with a rich history. These flower-shaped treats are made from a dough of flour, sesame oil, and honey.

The dough is cut into intricate designs and deep-fried until golden brown. After frying, the cookies are soaked in a sweet syrup made of honey and ginger.

You can find yakgwa in Korean grocery stores or make them at home. The homemade version allows you to control the sweetness and texture.

Yakgwa has a unique flavor profile, combining the richness of sesame oil with the sweetness of honey. The cookies have a satisfying crunch on the outside and a soft, chewy center.

5. Hodugwaja

Hodugwaja are delightful walnut pastries from Cheonan city in South Korea. These small, round cakes have a crispy exterior and a soft interior.

The treats are filled with a sweet mixture of red bean paste and chopped walnuts. You’ll find them as popular street food or special occasion desserts.

To make hodugwaja, you pour batter into a special mold pan. Then add the filling and more batter on top. The cakes are cooked until golden brown and crispy outside.

You can enjoy these tasty walnut cakes warm as a snack or dessert. Their nutty flavor and sweet filling make them a favorite Korean treat.

6. Tteokbokki Cake

Tteokbokki cake puts a sweet twist on the popular Korean street food. You’ll love this dessert version of the spicy rice cake dish.

To make it, start with cooled tteokbokki rice cakes. Cover them in a sweet sauce made from sugar, honey, and a touch of cinnamon.

Add your favorite toppings like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or fresh fruit slices. This creates a delightful mix of chewy and crunchy textures.

The result is a unique dessert that blends traditional Korean flavors with sweet ingredients. It’s a fun way to enjoy tteokbokki in a new form.

7. Patbingsu

Patbingsu is a refreshing Korean shaved ice dessert perfect for hot summer days. You’ll love its mix of textures and flavors.

The base is finely shaved ice topped with sweet red beans called pat. You can add fresh fruit like strawberries or mango for extra sweetness.

Many people enjoy patbingsu with chewy rice cakes, nuts, and a drizzle of condensed milk. Some versions include a scoop of ice cream too.

You can find patbingsu at Korean bakeries and cafes. It’s often served in a large bowl meant for sharing with friends or family.

8. Yuja Cha

Yuja cha is a sweet and tangy Korean tea that doubles as a dessert. You’ll love its refreshing citrus flavor, perfect for any time of day.

This treat is made by combining thin slices of yuja fruit and its peel with honey and sugar. Yuja is similar to a lemon or grapefruit, with a unique citron taste.

You can enjoy yuja cha hot or cold. It’s often served after meals or on its own as a soothing drink.

For a twist, try mixing yuja cha into yogurt or chopped fruit. You can even use it to flavor other desserts like cheesecake or chiffon cake for an extra citrusy kick.

9. Baesuk

Baesuk is a traditional Korean pear dessert. You can enjoy it either poached or steamed. This sweet treat is made with Korean pears, also known as Asian pears.

To make baesuk, you core a whole pear and stuff it with healthy ingredients. Common fillings include ginger, cinnamon, and honey. These add flavor and boost the dessert’s medicinal properties.

Koreans often use baesuk as a natural remedy for coughs and colds. The warm, sweet pear is soothing for sore throats. The ginger and honey may help fight germs.

You can serve baesuk hot or chilled. It makes a light and refreshing end to a meal. The pear stays juicy and tender while soaking up the sweet flavors.

10. Sikhye

Sikhye is a sweet rice drink that’s popular in Korea. It’s often served as a dessert after meals.

To make sikhye, cooked rice is mixed with malt water. This mixture ferments, creating a light amber liquid with a slightly sweet taste.

You’ll find small grains of rice floating in the drink. These become soft and spongy during the fermentation process.

Sikhye has a unique barley smell that many people enjoy. It’s typically served cold and can be found in restaurants and stores across Korea.

11. Songpyeon

Songpyeon is a beloved Korean rice cake enjoyed during Chuseok, the autumn harvest festival. You’ll find these small, crescent-shaped treats filled with sweet surprises.

To make songpyeon, you start with rice flour dough. You can color it naturally using ingredients like mugwort or fruit powders. Then you add fillings like sesame seeds, red beans, or chestnuts.

Shaping songpyeon is a fun family activity. You pinch the edges to form the signature half-moon shape. After steaming, the rice cakes become chewy and fragrant.

Eating songpyeon is more than just a tasty treat. It’s a way to celebrate the harvest and wish for good health. You’ll often see these colorful rice cakes as part of Chuseok festivities.

12. Injeolmi

Injeolmi is a beloved Korean sweet rice cake. You’ll love its chewy, sticky texture that’s similar to mochi. This treat is made from glutinous rice flour, giving it a unique consistency.

Traditionally, injeolmi is steamed and pounded. But you can make it quickly at home using a microwave. This method lets you enjoy this tasty dessert in just 10 minutes.

The rice cakes are often coated with roasted soybean powder. This adds a nutty flavor and slightly grainy texture. You can also find versions with other toppings like sesame seeds or ground nuts.

Injeolmi pairs well with tea or coffee. It’s a popular snack for special occasions and festivals in Korea. Try making this simple yet delicious treat for a taste of Korean culture.

13. Hwajeon

Hwajeon is a unique Korean rice pancake topped with edible flowers. You’ll find it’s often made with Korean azaleas, pear blossoms, rose petals, or wild chrysanthemums.

This sweet treat has roots in the Koryo Dynasty. It was eaten at traditional spring picnics called Hwajeon Nori.

To make hwajeon, you start with a rice flour dough. The dough is shaped into small cakes and pan-fried until golden. Then, you press flower petals onto the surface for a pretty and tasty finish.

Hwajeon offers a mix of soft texture and floral flavors. You can enjoy it as a snack or dessert, especially during springtime celebrations.

14. Ggul Tteok

Ggul tteok are colorful Korean rice cakes that will brighten up your dessert plate. These small, round treats are typically steamed and served with a sweet honey syrup drizzled on top.

The name “ggul tteok” means “honey cakes” in Korean. You’ll often find them in a pretty pink color, making them perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day.

While plain ggul tteok are common, you might also come across versions filled with sesame. Some are even dusted with roasted soybean powder for extra flavor.

These little cakes have a glossy outside and a soft, chewy inside. Their sticky texture and sweet taste make them a favorite Korean dessert you won’t want to miss.

15. Gangjeong

Gangjeong is a crunchy Korean candy treat. It’s made by mixing nuts, seeds, or grains with sticky syrup. The mixture is then formed into shapes and left to harden.

You can find gangjeong in different flavors. Popular types include sesame, peanut, and rice. Some versions add dried fruits for extra taste.

Koreans often enjoy gangjeong during holidays like New Year’s and Chuseok. It’s sweet, satisfying, and fun to eat. The crispy texture makes it a favorite snack for many.

You can try making gangjeong at home too. It’s a tasty way to explore Korean desserts. Just be careful – it’s hard to stop at just one piece!

16. Juak

Juak is a traditional Korean dessert that’s becoming trendy again. You’ll find these chewy, fried rice cakes made from glutinous rice dough. They’re usually covered in a sweet sauce called jocheong, which is a type of rice syrup.

In the past, juak was served to special guests and at weddings. Now you can find it at Korean dessert cafes. The name “juak” comes from its pebble-like shape.

While not as well-known as some other Korean sweets, juak is gaining popularity. You might pay around $2-3 for one at a cafe. Its unique texture and sweet flavor make it a tasty treat to try.

17. Yeot

Yeot is a traditional Korean candy made from grains. You can find it made from rice, corn, or mixed grains. Each type has its own unique flavor.

Rice yeot is known for its light, delicate sweetness. Corn yeot has a richer, deeper taste. Mixed grain yeot offers a blend of flavors.

To make yeot, the grains are steamed, fermented, and boiled. The result is a sticky, chewy candy. It’s often covered in nuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Yeot is popular during holidays and special occasions. You might see it decorated with seasonal flowers or small fruits like jujubes.

18. Dasik

Dasik are traditional Korean pressed cookies often served with tea. These small, decorative treats come in various colors and flavors.

You can find dasik made from ingredients like sesame seeds, green tea powder, and rice flour. Some recipes use honey as a sweetener.

Dasik are typically shaped using wooden molds with intricate patterns. This gives them a beautiful appearance perfect for special occasions.

You might see dasik served during Lunar New Year celebrations or other important events. They’re known for their delicate taste and texture.

Try making dasik at home using simple ingredients. It’s a fun way to experience Korean culture through food.

19. Bungeo-ppang

Bungeo-ppang is a popular Korean street food dessert. It’s a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste. The name comes from “bungeo” (crucian carp) and “ppang” (bread).

You’ll often find bungeo-ppang sold from street carts in winter. The crispy exterior and warm, sweet filling make it perfect for cold days.

Some modern versions use different fillings like custard, peanut butter, or Nutella. You can even find it filled with ice cream for a cool summer treat.

To make bungeo-ppang at home, you need a special fish-shaped mold. The batter is simple – just flour, baking powder, and salt. Pour it in the mold, add the filling, and cook until golden brown.

20. Chapssaltteok

Chapssaltteok is a popular Korean dessert similar to Japanese mochi. It’s made from glutinous rice flour, giving it a soft and chewy texture.

The dessert is often filled with sweet red bean paste, but other fillings like chocolate or caramel are also used. You can find chapssaltteok in various colors, including white, pink, and green.

Koreans enjoy chapssaltteok during special occasions and festivals. It symbolizes prosperity and happiness in Korean culture.

You can make chapssaltteok at home by mixing glutinous rice flour with sugar, water, and salt. The dough is then shaped and filled with your chosen ingredients.

21. Mulhwegwaja

Mulhwegwaja is a traditional Korean dessert that combines sweet and floral flavors. These small, flower-shaped rice cakes are made with glutinous rice flour and feature a delicate apricot filling.

The outer layer of mulhwegwaja is usually tinted pink or light purple, giving it a beautiful appearance. You’ll often find these treats served during special occasions or as part of Korean tea ceremonies.

When you bite into mulhwegwaja, you’ll experience a soft, chewy texture from the rice cake exterior. The sweet apricot filling provides a burst of fruity flavor that complements the mild taste of the rice cake.

22. Samgak Tteok

Samgak tteok is a triangular-shaped Korean rice cake. You’ll find these colorful treats at many celebrations and festivals.

The rice cakes come in various flavors like red bean, sesame, and chestnut. Their unique triangular shape makes them stand out from other tteok varieties.

Samgak tteok has a chewy texture and subtle sweetness. You can enjoy them as a snack or dessert. They’re often served with tea or as part of a larger dessert spread.

These rice cakes are not only tasty but also visually appealing. Their vibrant colors and neat triangle form make them popular for special occasions.

Cultural Significance of Korean Desserts

Korean desserts play an important role in celebrations and traditions. They reflect Korea’s history and have also been shaped by outside influences over time.

Traditional Celebrations and Rituals

Korean desserts are a key part of many holidays and special events.

On Chuseok, the harvest festival, people eat songpyeon – rice cakes filled with sweet sesame seeds, chestnuts, or beans. For the Lunar New Year, Koreans make tteokguk, a soup with sliced rice cakes.

At weddings, couples serve sujeonggwa, a cinnamon punch, to guests. Red bean sweets like patbingsu are popular in summer. During winter, you’ll find warm treats like hotteok, sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts.

Many desserts have symbolic meanings. Round shapes represent unity and completeness. Sticky textures signify family bonds. The colors and ingredients often have special significance too.

Influence of Western Desserts

In recent decades, Western-style desserts have become more common in Korea.

You can now find bakeries selling cakes, pastries, and breads across the country. Many Koreans enjoy ice cream, chocolate, and other sweets that weren’t traditionally part of the cuisine.

This has led to creative fusions. Bingsu now comes in flavors like tiramisu or cheesecake. Some cafes serve Western cakes made with Asian ingredients like green tea or red bean.

Despite these new trends, traditional Korean desserts remain popular. Many people value them as part of their cultural heritage. You’ll still see rice cakes and sweet soups served at important events alongside newer treats.

Ingredients Commonly Used in Korean Desserts

Korean desserts use many unique ingredients. These give the sweets their special flavors and textures.

Rice-Based Ingredients

Rice is key in Korean sweets.

Cooks use rice flour to make soft, chewy treats. Tteok, or rice cakes, are very popular. You can find them in many desserts.

Glutinous rice flour makes extra sticky sweets. It’s used in favorites like injeolmi, a type of rice cake. Regular rice flour creates lighter textures.

Cooked rice goes into some desserts too. It’s the base for sikhye, a sweet rice drink. Cooks also use puffed rice for crunch in some treats.

Unique Sweeteners

Korean desserts don’t always use white sugar. Many rely on natural sweeteners instead.

Honey is a common choice. It adds sweetness and a golden color to treats.

You’ll find it in yakgwa, a fried honey cookie.

Red bean paste is both sweet and filling. It’s made from adzuki beans and sugar.

Many desserts use it as a stuffing or topping.

Fruit adds natural sweetness too. Korean pears, dates, and persimmons are popular picks.

These fruits often show up in teas and jellies.