Indulge in the sweetness of the unexpected with dessert soups, a culinary adventure that will redefine your perception of desserts. While savory soups often take center stage, their sweet counterparts offer a unique and exciting twist. These creamy concoctions can be enjoyed hot, cold, or at room temperature, making them perfect for an afternoon snack or as a sweet treat to round off a meal.
From traditional recipes to innovative creations, dessert soups are a reflection of the diversity of global cuisine. In some cultures, they’re the star of the show, with dedicated restaurants serving up only the creamiest and most flavorful versions. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and decadent, this list of sweet treat soups is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
From the familiar flavors of Strawberry Coconut Soup to the exotic Snow Fungus Dessert Soup, there’s something for everyone. So why not take a culinary journey and discover the world of dessert soups?
Sweet Red Bean Soup
Red Bean Soup, a Chinese culinary delight, boasts an indulgent sweetness and velvety texture, courtesy of its signature ingredient – tapioca pearls. While these tiny orbs may lack distinct flavor, they deliver a satisfying chewiness that has earned them fame. The true essence of this soup, however, lies in the unique properties of the red beans, which impart a creamy, earthy tone reminiscent of sweet potatoes.
Unlike some desserts, Red Bean Soup strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and savory notes, making it an irresistible treat. With only five ingredients and steps to prepare – albeit requiring overnight soaking of dried adzuki beans – this recipe is surprisingly accessible. The outcome is a rich, thick soup that has become a staple at banquets and buffets, guaranteeing its place as a crowd-pleaser.
Coconut Tapioca Dessert Soup
In East and Southeast Asia, Coconut Tapioca Dessert Soup has become a beloved treat that’s often found in traditional dim sum restaurants. To create its signature silky texture, coconut milk plays a crucial role. Meanwhile, the fruit juices add a burst of vibrant flavors to this sweet soup. For added fun, you can also include chunks of fresh fruit like honeydew melon and juicy mango, further elevating the dessert’s flavor profile.
Mint Chocolate Dessert Soup
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate-mint fusion by transforming your cravings into a rich and creamy dessert soup. This unique recipe combines velvety smoothness with the freshness of mint, creating an unparalleled flavor experience.
The key to this indulgent treat lies in blending together the perfect proportions of dark chocolate and peppermint extract.
Pastry chef techniques may come into play, but don’t worry – you can achieve the desired consistency with simple tools and appliances at home.
For the ultimate decadence, serve your dessert soup chilled, accompanied by a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. As you take that first spoonful, let the symphony of flavors transport you to a world of pure bliss.
Strawberry Coconut Soup
Indulge in this delectable dessert soup, where succulent strawberries and rich coconut cream meld together in harmony, sweetened to perfection with sugar and vanilla. For an added burst of citrusy freshness, lemon and orange juice can be cleverly incorporated, striking a delightful balance between sweetness and tartness. The outcome is a luscious, silky dessert soup that’s simply divine on a scorching summer day or at an alfresco barbecue gathering.
Honeydew Blueberry Soup
Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of this Honeydew Blueberry Soup, a stress-free dessert recipe that requires mere minutes of preparation. Simply blend together pureed honeydew melon, blueberries, lime juice, orange juice, fresh ginger, and yogurt until smooth, then chill in the refrigerator. Once set, top with whipped cream and additional berries to create a visually appealing and utterly delicious dessert soup.
Sweet Potato & Apple Dessert Soup
The transition from savory soups to sweet dessert soups can be a game-changer for the palate. This sweet potato and apple recipe is a prime example, as it effortlessly blends the comforting warmth of roasted sweet potatoes with the crisp freshness of apples, all while incorporating complementary flavors like ginger, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon. The result is a nourishing and flavorful soup that’s sure to delight even the most discerning dessert lovers.
Snow Fungus Dessert Soup
Imagine a culinary journey that defies conventions, where the familiar warmth of cream of mushroom soup gives way to an otherworldly delight. Cantonese Tong Sui, or Snow Fungus Dessert Soup, is a revelation for even the most seasoned palates. This enigmatic treat consists of layers of gelatinous velvet that dissolve effortlessly on the tongue, yielding a subtle sweetness that’s easily modifiable to suit individual tastes.
At its core lies snow fungus, a prized ingredient in Chinese medicine and cuisine, known for imparting a sweet, mildly herbal flavor when cooked. When consumed straight from the pot, the snow fungus provides a satisfying crunch, but it truly shines when allowed to meld with the soup, resulting in a silky texture that’s simply divine. So, don’t be put off by its unconventional appearance – this nourishing and light dessert soup is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Kisel With Berries
Berry Kisel, a beloved Slavic dessert tradition, offers a unique culinary experience that’s both tart and tangy. When savored, this sweet treat can evoke a sense of fun and playfulness, as the sticky consistency lingers on the palate. The texture, reminiscent of strawberry glaze or jam, allows for an enjoyable sipping or spooning experience.
A medley of berries – blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries, and blackberries – are simmered with water and sugar before being thickened with potato starch to create a rich, fruity soup. This straightforward recipe can be enjoyed year-round, conjuring up warm memories of childhood summers.
Red Bean Soup With Mochi
Zenzai, also referred to as Oshiruko, is a beloved winter dessert in Japan that combines the warmth of red bean soup with the tender sweetness of toasted mochi. The aroma of the red beans is simply intoxicating, making this treat impossible to resist. While traditionalists stick to adding mochi for its chewy texture and subtle sweetness, some enthusiasts prefer to substitute Shiratama Dango, glutinous rice flour dumplings that add a delightful filling and bite-sized pleasure with each spoonful.
Danish Cold Buttermilk Soup
In the midst of scorching summer days, Denmark’s Koldskaal provides a refreshing respite. This traditional cold buttermilk soup, also known as Danish Cold Buttermilk Soup, is an old-fashioned treat that has been delighting palates for generations. At first glance, it may appear to be nothing more than a bowl of milk, yet its simplicity belies a medley of flavors and textures.
The foundation of this chilled delight lies in the harmonious union of buttermilk, plain yogurt, sugar, and vanilla, creating a sweet and creamy base. To elevate this humble soup, simply add your preferred toppings – be it juicy blueberries or luscious strawberries – followed by crumbled cookies, cake, or crunchy granola. The result is a veritable feast for the senses, sure to quench even the most ardent of summer thirsts.
Ginataang Bilo Bilo
In the Philippines, Ginataang Bilo Bilo is a beloved afternoon treat that perfectly captures the essence of comfort food. This sweet and savory dessert soup is characterized by its sticky rice balls swimming in rich coconut milk, providing a refreshing respite from the scorching heat.
The vibrant ingredients add to its appeal, featuring an assortment of colorful elements like glutinous rice balls, sweet potatoes, plantain bananas, and jackfruit, all suspended in a creamy coconut milk infused with tapioca pearls. The result is a must-try dessert that’s as delightful as it is satisfying.
Coconut Mango Sago
Indulge in the tropical warmth of Coconut Mango Sago, a soothing dessert soup that’s perfect for hot summer days. This creamy concoction combines the richness of coconut milk with the subtle sweetness of oat milk, punctuated by chunks of juicy mango and tender tapioca pearls. The result is a delightfully balanced treat that’s neither too sweet nor too heavy, making it an ideal comfort food for when you need a break from the sun.
Blackberry Lavender Dessert Soup
Indulge in the enchanting Blackberry Lavender Dessert Soup, a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a state of pure bliss. The harmonious union of lavender and blackberries yields an extraordinary creation that’s as visually stunning as it is delectable. To craft this masterpiece, earl gray tea is steeped with the essence of lavender, then blended with luscious blackberries and a touch of honey until silky smooth.
This refreshing dessert soup is purposed to quench your thirst on a sweltering summer day, providing an oasis of coolness in every spoonful.
Black Sesame Soup
A traditional Chinese dessert, this black sesame seed and rice soup boasts a rich, dark hue that shimmers in the light, piquing the interest of many. With a subtle sweetness, nutty flavor, and an intoxicating aroma that fills the air, this hearty soup is both soothing and satisfying. As a perfect finale to any heavy meal, it’s a delightful treat that will leave you craving more.
Longan Tong Sui
Inspired by the snow fungus dessert soup recipe, this unique dessert features dried longan, a fruit native to Asia known for its meaty texture. The addition of ginkgo nuts adds an intriguing element, with their soft and yielding texture reminiscent of cheese, offering subtle sweet or slightly bitter notes. This revitalizing dessert soup can be enjoyed at a comfortable temperature, preferably chilled and served over ice, making it an excellent choice to quench your thirst after any meal.
The bottom line
Indulging in dessert soups is like unlocking a treasure trove of flavors and textures, offering a delightful departure from the norm. After a hearty meal, a lightly sweet treat can be just what you need to round off the experience. With so many mouthwatering options to choose from, it’s no wonder why these unique desserts have become increasingly popular.
Join me on this gastronomic adventure as we explore the world of dessert soups, where every spoonful is an invitation to savor something new and exciting.