Top Korean Desserts for a Sweet Treat After a Meal

Korean cuisine is renowned not only for its savory dishes but also for its delightful desserts that provide a perfect sweet ending to any meal. If you’re exploring the world of Korean sweets, here are some top Korean desserts that you absolutely must try.

Bingsu (빙수)
Bingsu is a popular Korean shaved ice dessert that has gained worldwide fame. Traditionally, it features finely shaved ice topped with sweet red beans, condensed milk, and a variety of fruits. A modern twist includes flavors like green tea, mango, and even chocolate. The refreshing nature of bingsu makes it an ideal treat during hot summer days.

Tteok refers to a variety of Korean rice cakes made from glutinous rice flour. These delightful treats can be sweet or savory, with sweet fillings such as red bean paste or fruits. While there are countless tteok variations, the most famous include Injeolmi (a chewy, flour-coated rice cake) and Songpyeon (half-moon shaped rice cake filled with nuts and sesame). Tteok is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.

Hotteok is a popular street food snack in Korea that transforms into a dessert when filled with a sweet mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. Served hot off the grill, hotteok offers a crispy outside and a gooey, sweet filling that melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect winter dessert to warm you up!

Similar to bingsu but distinctly different, patbingsu specifically features sweet red bean paste as a topping. The dish is often garnished with diverse ingredients like mochi, fruit, and even ice cream, making it a hearty dessert option that satisfies your sweet tooth while delivering a refreshingly icy experience.

Korean yoghurt is often made from fresh milk and has a creamy, slightly tangy flavor. It’s commonly enjoyed plain or with add-ins like fruits, nuts, and granola. This dessert option is a healthier choice for those looking to satisfy their cravings without over-indulging.

Jeolpyeon is a sticky rice cake that is typically colored and shaped in various forms, often representing different seasons or celebrations. These delightful morsels usually contain sweet fillings like red bean paste or fruit, making them both visually appealing and delicious.

While not originally Korean, mochi ice cream has become a popular dessert in Korea. This treat features creamy ice cream encased in a chewy rice cake shell. Available in a variety of flavors, mochi ice cream combines the best of both worlds: the satisfying chewiness of mochi and the freshness of ice cream.

Sikhye is a traditional sweet rice drink that acts as a wonderful dessert or palate cleanser after a meal. Made from fermented malt and sweetened with sugar, this refreshing beverage is often served with a few grains of rice or pine nuts, making it a comforting and unique dessert option.

Exploring these top Korean desserts is a delightful way to experience the rich flavors and textures of Korean cuisine. Whether you have a penchant for icy treats, chewy sweets, or creamy delights, there's a Korean dessert to satisfy every sweet craving! Don't forget to indulge in these scrumptious options after your next meal.