1. Assorted Bean Sweet Soup

Assorted bean sweet soup is traditionally made with black beans, green beans, red beans, or white beans. This delicious dessert is often served with coconut milk and can be enjoyed either hot or cold. The beans are sweet and creamy, while the coconut milk adds a rich, smooth flavor, making it the perfect dessert for a warm Sunday evening meal.

2. Lychee and Lotus Seed Sweet Soup

Lychee and lotus seed sweet soup is known for its cooling properties. The crunchy, nutty lotus seeds pair perfectly with the sweet, fragrant lychees. Additionally, lotus seeds promote better sleep, making this dessert a soothing treat. For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding bird’s nest or jujube to enhance the taste and richness.

3. Coconut Milk Pudding

Coconut milk pudding is a beloved dessert from Hai Phong, but you can easily prepare it at home to treat your family after a hearty meal. This dessert has a delightful sweetness from the coconut milk and a soft, chewy coconut meat. It’s especially delicious when served cold with a sprinkle of roasted peanuts or sesame seeds.

4. Khuc Bach Sweet Soup

Khuc Bach is a harmonious blend of light, sweet rock sugar syrup and the subtle fragrance of lychee. The dessert is complemented by smooth, creamy "khuc bach" cubes made from fresh cream. You can enjoy it with fresh fruit, a sprinkle of sliced almonds, and ice cubes for a refreshing and delicious treat.

5. Baked Banana Cake

Baked banana cake is a simple yet delicious dessert with a soft texture and the perfect sweetness from the bananas. Its rich aroma is incredibly appetizing. You can enhance the flavor by adding a few chocolate chips, which will make it even more enjoyable, especially for kids.

6. Fresh Fruit Mousse

Fruit mousse features a smooth layer of white milk jelly paired with fresh, juicy fruit, offering a delightful dessert experience. This cool, refreshing treat is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it both delicious and nutritious. Enjoy this unique flavor as a perfect way to end your meal.

7. Green Bean Chocolate Cake

Green bean chocolate cake is a unique blend of the sweet flavor of green beans and the rich aroma of chocolate. With its simple preparation, you can create a light and delicious cake that will captivate any guest. Each bite carries a distinct taste, making it unforgettable.

Top 5 Vietnamese Dessert Hanoi

1. Hàng Trống Mixed Rice Paper

Hàng Trống Mixed Rice Paper is a perfect blend of shredded rice paper, fresh herbs, dried shrimp, quail eggs, dried beef, mango, and various spices, creating a distinctive and irresistible flavor. This well-loved snack, served at a long-standing eatery on Hàng Trống Street, has become a must-try for both locals and tourists alike.

- Address: 86 Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm District
- Opening hours: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

2. Tạm Thương Fried Fermented Pork Rolls

Fried fermented pork rolls are a beloved Hanoi snack, especially popular among the younger crowd. Tạm Thương Fried Fermented Pork Rolls are crispy on the outside, with a flavorful fermented pork filling inside, complemented by green mango, jicama, cucumber, and served with a spicy dipping sauce. Nestled in the Tạm Thương alley, this small yet bustling shop attracts both locals and visitors.

- Address: 36 Tạm Thương Alley, Hàng Gai, Hoàn Kiếm
- Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM

3. Huyện Alley Pork Rib Porridge

Pork rib porridge is a Hanoi street food that captures the heart, especially during cooler days. The creamy porridge, combined with tender pork ribs, carefully selected spices, and fresh herbs, offers a warm and comforting meal. Served with crispy fritters and shredded pork, it’s a nostalgic dish that stays with visitors long after their trip. The shop is tucked in a small alley with a cozy yet bustling atmosphere.

- Address: 43 Huyện Alley, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm
- Opening hours: 12:00 PM – 6:30 PM

4. Lý Quốc Sư Fried Dumplings and Savory Fried Buns

Fried dumplings and savory fried buns are iconic Hanoi snacks. Lý Quốc Sư's fried dumplings are crispy on the outside, with a savory filling of seasoned meat, wood ear mushrooms, and fried onions. In addition to these dumplings, the Lý Quốc Sư shop also serves other popular Hanoi snacks such as fried bao and fried fermented pork rolls.

- Address: 52 Lý Quốc Sư, Hoàn Kiếm
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

5. Ô Quan Chưởng Fried Sesame Balls

After a long day at work or school, there’s nothing quite like stopping by Ô Quan Chưởng for a crispy fried sesame ball. With its crunchy exterior and delicious mung bean filling, the Ô Quan Chưởng fried sesame ball offers a traditional flavor that has become a beloved Hanoi snack. The balls are fried fresh, ensuring they remain crisp with every bite. Sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds, they add an extra layer of aroma and flavor, making them even more irresistible.

- Address: Tuyết Béo Shop, 1 Hàng Chiếu, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

List of Vietnamese traditional cake you should try once

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse dishes, and one of the most delightful aspects of it is the variety of Vietnamese traditional cakes. These cakes, often crafted from rice flour, coconut, and sweet fillings, are not only a treat for the taste buds but also an integral part of the country's cultural heritage. Whether enjoyed during special celebrations or as a daily snack, each cake has its own unique story and significance. In this section, we will explore a list of Vietnamese traditional cakes that you should try at least once to experience the true essence of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

Vietnamese cake

1. Bánh Chưng and Bánh Tét

As the epitome of traditional Vietnamese cakes, Bánh Chưng and Bánh Tét mark the beginning of the Lunar New Year celebrations. Bánh Chưng, famous in the northern regions, and Bánh Tét, beloved in the south and central regions, symbolize respect and gratitude towards ancestors. Made primarily from green beans and fatty pork, both cakes are wrapped in dong leaves (for Bánh Chưng) or banana leaves (for Bánh Tét). The square shape of Bánh Chưng and the cylindrical form of Bánh Tét highlight the creativity and tradition of Vietnamese culinary artistry, enriched with additions like salted eggs and sausage. These cakes are more than just food—they embody family bonds, historical significance, and cultural pride.

2. Bánh Đúc

Those familiar with Kim Lân's 'Vợ Nhặt' may have encountered the mention of Bánh Đúc, a traditional cake from northern and central Vietnam. Made from rice flour with added spices, Bánh Đúc comes in various delightful forms such as Bánh Đúc Mỡ Hành (with fried onions), Bánh Đúc Chấm Tương (served with soy sauce), and even Bánh Đúc Nộm (with pickled vegetables). The versatility of this cake allows for a wide range of ingredients, ensuring a unique experience each time it’s enjoyed. Despite its many variations, the base flavor remains unchanged—soft, smooth, and creamy rice flour cakes that offer a memorable taste.

3. Bánh Bột Lọc

Bánh Bột Lọc, originating from Huế, is a distinctive Vietnamese cake made from tapioca flour, filled with shrimp, pork, or cassava, and wrapped in banana leaves before being steamed. The delicate tapioca skin, combined with the vibrant red of shrimp and pork, creates an irresistible texture and flavor. Often served with a tangy chili dipping sauce, Bánh Bột Lọc is a beloved dish that captures the essence of Huế, a place known for its rich culinary heritage. Each bite offers a taste of this royal city's unique tradition.

4. Bánh Xèo

Bánh Xèo, a well-known Vietnamese cake, is popular across the country, especially in the south, where it is considered a specialty. The cake comes in two main varieties: crispy and chewy. In the south, people prefer the crispy version, made from finely ground rice flour and fried to a golden crisp. Filled with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and mung beans, it’s often served with a variety of fresh herbs and a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, garlic, and chili. The diversity of filling ingredients, including lotus stems, bamboo shoots, and duck meat, reflects the creativity and variety in regional cooking.

5. Bánh Cuốn

Bánh Cuốn, a traditional Vietnamese cake, is said to have evolved from ancient cakes like Bánh Xuân and Bánh Xuân Thái. Made from rice flour, the thin, smooth, hot wrappers are filled with minced pork, shrimp, wood ear mushrooms, and scallions, then rolled up and sliced into bite-sized pieces. Typically served with a diluted fish sauce and garnished with fried onions and crushed peanuts, Bánh Cuốn is a delicious snack or meal. Some regions also serve it with Vietnamese pork sausage and bean sprouts, offering additional layers of flavor and texture.

6. Bánh Dày Giò

Bánh Dày Giò, a traditional cake loved by many in Vietnam, is made from finely ground sticky rice. It can be filled with sweet mung bean paste, shredded coconut, or savory pork, and is often prepared during Tet (Lunar New Year) and the 10th day of the third lunar month. Symbolizing respect for ancestors, this cake is enjoyed not only as a festive treat but also as a popular breakfast item, often paired with slices of Vietnamese pork sausage.

7. Bánh Gai

Bánh Gai, originating from the northeast of Vietnam, is a sweet cake wrapped in aromatic, dark-colored leaves and filled with a rich mixture of mung beans and sticky rice. Each region adds its own unique twist to the recipe, but the distinctive black color and sweet, nutty flavor remain constant. This cake is perfect for after-meal snacking or as a light dessert, offering a taste of the traditional flavors of Vietnam. Known for its tender, chewy texture, Bánh Gai is a staple in the local culture, particularly in Ninh Giang, Nam Định, and Tứ Trụ.

8. Bánh Phu Thê - Xu Xê

Bánh Phu Thê, or Xu Xê, is a traditional sweet cake made from green beans, coconut, tapioca flour, sesame seeds, and pandan leaves. The process of making this cake requires patience and precision, as the goal is to achieve the perfect balance of textures: the chewy tapioca, the fibrous coconut, and the rich, sweet green bean filling. The subtle aroma of pandan leaves enhances the flavor, making it a cherished dessert in Vietnamese weddings, symbolizing marital bliss and harmony.

9. Bánh Trôi – Bánh Chay

Bánh Trôi and Bánh Chay are traditional cakes from northern Vietnam, typically enjoyed together during the Hàn Thực Festival on the 3rd day of the 3rd lunar month. Made from glutinous rice flour, these cakes are both chewy and sticky, filled with sweet sugar and often topped with sesame seeds. While Bánh Trôi is white, there are modern variations in different colors and shapes, adding a creative touch to this traditional dish. These cakes are an essential part of the cultural fabric of Vietnam, especially during festive occasions.

Each of these traditional Vietnamese cakes brings a unique story, flavor, and cultural significance to the table, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam. From the savory to the sweet, each cake holds a special place in the hearts of Vietnamese people, whether enjoyed during family gatherings, holidays, or as a simple snack.

Vietnamese special cake

1. Bánh tai heo

One of the most unique names on the list of Vietnam’s most distinctive traditional cakes is Tai Heo. Its name comes from its shape, with spirals alternating between light brown and a color commonly referred to as "egg yolk" in local terms. To make this cake even more appealing, matcha powder is often added in the preparation process today. The Tai Heo cake has an eye-catching appearance, resembling small ears, with a light, sweet flavor and a crisp, delicious texture. It is a popular snack loved by many.

Made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, the dough is rolled out into small pieces and deep-fried to create this crispy, enticing cake. Its crunchy, nutty flavor has kept it a favorite, cherished in Vietnam for generations.

2. Bánh da lợn

Da Lon (also known as Nine Layers of Cloud cake) is another gem in the world of Vietnamese special cakes. This dessert is made from tapioca flour, mung beans, and sugar, layered in a visually striking way. The name Da Lon, meaning "pigskin" or Chín Tầng Mây ("nine layers of clouds"), comes from its multi-layered appearance. Some people add taro or durian to enhance its rich flavor.

In Southern Vietnam, Da Lon is a beloved cake, evoking fond memories of childhood. Each morning, mothers would return from the market, bringing with them the sweet aroma of this cake, making it an unforgettable part of many people's lives. With its layered charm, Da Lon stands proudly as a symbol of Vietnam's culinary heritage.

3. Bánh bèo

A notable mention in the list of Vietnamese special cakes is Bèo, a beloved dish in Central Vietnam. Known for its rich, flavorful taste, Bèo is named after its resemblance to water lily leaves. The main ingredient is rice flour, while the filling consists of shrimp, minced pork, and crispy shallots, seasoned to perfection. Depending on the region and personal preference, people may add coconut milk, fried pork skin, or other unique ingredients.

Often served in small bowls, Bèo is sometimes referred to as Bèo Chén (Bowl Cakes). It is usually eaten with a dipping sauce made from diluted fish sauce, sugar, lime, and chili, giving it a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. Originally from Huế, Bèo is now popular throughout Central and Southern Vietnam.

4. Bánh hỏi

Hoi Cake is a specialty from several Vietnamese provinces, such as Bến Tre, Phú Yên, and Bình Định. This simple yet delicious Vietnamese special cake is made from finely ground rice, which is pressed into a mold and steamed. Some people also use pandan leaves to add a beautiful green color. What makes Hoi Cake stand out is its unique taste and widespread popularity.

Hoi Cake is typically served with roasted pork, grilled pork rolls, or pork entrails, and often topped with fried shallots and peanuts for extra flavor. In some regions, people enjoy it with chopped chives, adding a distinct aroma. Known for its simplicity, Hoi Cake offers a unique, nutritious option for any meal.

5. Bánh khọt

Khọt Cake is a Southern Vietnamese delicacy with a crispy outer shell and a variety of fillings such as egg yolk, mung beans, shrimp, squid, or octopus. Served with a garlic-chili dipping sauce and fresh herbs, some even add coconut milk for a richer flavor.

This Vietnamese special cake is particularly popular in the Mekong Delta region, where it’s known for its delightful taste and variety of textures.

6. Bánh tổ

A traditional cake from Quảng region, To Cake is made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, fresh ginger, sesame, and banana leaves, creating a soft, sweet delicacy. It may appear simple, but the harmony of ingredients, including the subtle aroma of ginger and sesame, provides a delightful experience. It is often enjoyed during the Lunar New Year as a nostalgic treat, paired with a hot cup of tea, embodying the culinary spirit of Quảng Nam.

7. Bánh ích

Ich Cake is a beloved treat across Vietnam, with distinct variations in each region. Made from sticky rice and mung bean flour, Ich Cake is typically pyramid-shaped, wrapped in banana or non-leaf, filled with either sweet mung bean paste or savory stir-fried pork. It is often served during important holidays like Lunar New Year and death anniversaries.

Though small in size, Ich Cake offers a delightful combination of flavors — the sweetness of sticky rice, the richness of coconut, and the aroma of banana leaves, making it an irresistible part of Vietnamese cuisine.

In conclusion, Vietnamese traditional cakes are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a gateway into the heart of Vietnam’s rich culinary traditions. From the soft, sticky textures of bánh chưng to the sweet, fragrant flavors of bánh dẻo, these cakes offer a delightful exploration of the country’s diverse food culture. For those eager to experience these delicious pastries firsthand, a visit to Bánh Gia Trịnh is highly recommended. With several convenient locations, you can indulge in these authentic treats at:

• Cơ Sở 1: Khu tập thể 16A Lý Nam Đế (đối diện 49 Lý Nam Đế) - Quận Hoàn Kiếm
• Cơ Sở 2: Tầng 1 - Tòa HH08.1 - KĐT Constrexim 1 Thái Hà - Đường 23 TP Giao Lưu - Bắc Từ Liêm
• Cơ Sở 3: 01SH5A - Toà R1.02, KĐT Vinhomes Ocean Park - TT Trâu Quỳ, Gia Lâm
• Cơ sở 4: Thôn Bài, X.Yên Bài, H.Ba Vì, TP.Hà Nội

Embark on a delicious journey and savor the best of Vietnam’s traditional cakes at Bánh Gia Trịnh today!