Sweet Korean Desserts You Can’t Miss on Your Trip to Korea

Korea is renowned for its delicious food, and desserts are no exception. If you're planning a trip to this vibrant country, make sure to indulge in these sweet Korean treats that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

1. Bingsu (빙수)
Bingsu is a popular shaved ice dessert perfect for warm weather. Traditionally topped with sweet red beans, fruit, and condensed milk, this dessert comes in various flavors, including matcha, mango, and even injeolmi (rice cake). Don't miss out on trying the classic patbingsu, which features sweetened red beans and a generous drizzle of condensed milk for the ultimate refreshment.

2. Tteok (떡)
Tteok, or Korean rice cake, is a staple in Korean culture, often enjoyed during celebrations and festivities. Made from glutinous rice flour, they can be savory or sweet. Sweet varieties include injeolmi (coated with powdered soybean flour) and songpyeon (filled with sweet sesame or red bean paste). These chewy delights are a must-try, especially during the Chuseok holiday.

3. Hotteok (호떡)
Hotteok is a scrumptious Korean street food dessert that features a yeasted dough filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. Pan-fried to crispy perfection, these warm pancakes are best enjoyed fresh off the grill. You’ll often find vendors selling hotteok in the winter months, making it a cozy treat to warm you up on chilly days.

4. Choco Pie (초코파이)
A beloved snack throughout Korea, choco pie consists of two soft cake layers sandwiching a marshmallow filling, all coated in chocolate. This delightful treat is perfect for on-the-go snacking, but you can also find gourmet versions in fancy cafes. Don’t be surprised if you find these little cakes in your shopping basket; they’re hard to resist!

5. Korean Rice Cake Ice Cream (떡 아이스크림)
A fusion of traditional and modern, this dessert features ice cream encased in a layer of chewy rice cake. Flavors such as green tea, vanilla, and red bean provide a unique taste, and they come in adorable shapes and colors. Enjoying this chilled treat is a delightful way to experience both Korean culture and innovative desserts.

6. Kkwabaegi (꽈배기)
Kkwabaegi, or twisted doughnuts, are a popular snack in Korea that are lightly sweetened and often coated in sugar. Their soft, doughy texture combined with a crispy outer layer makes them irresistible. You’ll often find them at local markets, where they are freshly made and served warm.

7. Patjuk (팥죽)
Patjuk is a traditional Korean red bean porridge that is often enjoyed during winter and on special occasions. This sweet dessert is made from red beans boiled and mashed to create a hearty, warming dish. It is typically served with glutinous rice balls, which add a chewy texture. Enjoy it hot with a sprinkle of powdered soybean flour for a comforting treat.

When exploring the streets of Korea, make sure to seek out these sweet delights! Each dessert not only offers a burst of flavor but also a piece of Korean culture that you won't want to miss. From refreshing bingsu to comforting patjuk, these treats will surely enrich your gastronomic adventure in Korea.