12 Korean Dessert Recipes with Unique Sweet Flavors

Tina M. Ruth

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12 Korean Dessert Recipes with Unique Sweet Flavors

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Are you ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with something incredibly unique? I created this post because I’ve been inspired by the delightful world of *Korean desserts*. These treats are not just flavorful; they often come packed with surprising ingredients and textures that make them stand out. If you’re someone who enjoys *vegan recipes* or is simply curious about new flavors, you’re in for a treat!

In this post, I’ll share *12 Korean dessert recipes* that elevate traditional *Korean sweets* to new heights. Each recipe showcases unique sweet flavor combinations that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for anyone looking to impress at a gathering or just indulge at home, these desserts offer a delicious twist that’s hard to resist.

You’ll discover delightful recipes like *Vegan Bingsu*, a refreshing shaved ice treat, and *Songpyeon*, a beautiful rice cake often enjoyed during the harvest festival. These recipes are not just tasty; they also embrace the essence of *Asian desserts*. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these easy-to-follow instructions will guide you in creating your own *sweet treats* that you can be proud of.

So, if you’re looking to explore the world of *traditional Korean desserts* with a modern, vegan twist, you’ve come to the right place. Get ready to explore flavors that are unexpected yet wonderful. Let’s dive into these mouthwatering desserts and embark on a sweet adventure together!

Key Takeaways

– Discover 12 unique *Korean dessert recipes* that are vegan-friendly and delicious.

– Each recipe features interesting flavor combinations that elevate traditional *Korean sweets*.

– The post includes easy-to-follow instructions suitable for all skill levels.

– Enjoy vibrant desserts like *Vegan Bingsu* and *Songpyeon*, perfect for any occasion.

– Learn about the cultural significance of these *Asian desserts* while indulging in sweet treats.

1. Vegan Bingsu (Korean Shaved Ice)

Craving something cool and refreshing? Bingsu is your answer! This vegan delight offers fluffy, shaved ice topped with your favorite fruits and sweet red beans, making it not only delicious but also nourishing. It’s quick to make and perfect for those hot summer days when you need a light treat to cool off. You can customize it with any toppings you love for a personal touch!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups of ice (shaved)
– 1 cup of coconut milk
– 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed coconut milk
– 1/2 cup of fresh fruits (mango, strawberries, blueberries)
– 1/4 cup of sweet red beans
– Optional toppings: nuts, mochi, and syrup

Instructions:
1. Use a blender or ice shaver to shave the ice until fluffy.
2. Pack the shaved ice into serving bowls.
3. Pour coconut milk over the ice.
4. Drizzle with sweetened condensed coconut milk.
5. Top with fresh fruits and sweet red beans.
6. Add any additional toppings you desire and enjoy!

FAQs:
– Can I use regular milk? Yes, if you’re not following a vegan diet!
– Can I make it ahead of time? You can shave the ice in advance, but add toppings just before serving.

Vegan Bingsu (Korean Shaved Ice)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:36 PM

Dessert Main Ingredients Cost Notes
Vegan Bingsu Shaved ice, fruits, coconut milk $22.99 Refreshing summer treat
Songpyeon Sweet rice flour, red bean paste $27.88 Traditional rice cake
Patbingsu Shaved ice, red beans, fruits $39.99 Popular summer dessert
Vegan Hotteok Flour, sugar, walnuts $41.76 Sweet pancakes with filling
Tteok Sweet rice flour, red bean paste $27.88 Chewy rice cake
Vegan Jeolpyeon Sweet rice flour, fruit juice $20.99 Colorful fruit-filled cake
Vegan Choco Pie Flour, cocoa powder, marshmallow $37.99 Chocolate-coated treat

2. Songpyeon (Korean Rice Cake)

Looking for a fun way to celebrate a special occasion? Songpyeon is a traditional Korean rice cake that makes every gathering feel festive. These delightful half-moon shaped treats are filled with sweetened sesame or red bean paste and are often steamed with pine needles for a unique aroma. Making them together with family can turn into a fun bonding activity, and their chewy texture is simply irresistible!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups of sweet rice flour
– 3/4 cup of water
– 1/2 cup of sweet red bean paste or ground sesame seeds with sugar
– A pinch of salt
– Pine needles or banana leaves for steaming

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix sweet rice flour and water to form a smooth dough.
2. Pinch small amounts to create flat discs.
3. Place a bit of filling in the center, fold, and seal tightly.
4. Arrange on a steaming basket lined with pine needles or banana leaves.
5. Steam for about 20 minutes until the dough is translucent.

FAQs:
– Can I use other fillings? Yes, feel free to explore with fruits or nuts!
– How should I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Songpyeon (Korean Rice Cake)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:37 PM

3. Patbingsu (Red Bean Ice Dessert)

On a hot day, nothing beats a bowl of Patbingsu! This delightful Korean dessert combines fluffy shaved ice with sweet red beans and a medley of fresh fruits, creating a deliciously satisfying treat. This vegan-friendly version is not only refreshing but also packed with fiber and antioxidants, making it a guilt-free indulgence. It’s a perfect way to cool down while enjoying a sweet, flavorful dessert!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups of shaved ice
– 1 cup of sweetened red beans
– 1/2 cup of diced fresh fruits (kiwi, strawberries, bananas)
– 1/4 cup of almond or coconut milk
– Optional: mochi, sliced nuts, and syrup for drizzling

Instructions:
1. Prepare the shaved ice and fill serving bowls.
2. Generously layer sweetened red beans on top.
3. Add the diced fresh fruits and drizzle with almond or coconut milk.
4. Top with mochi, nuts, and syrup as desired.

FAQs:
– What if I can’t find red beans? You can substitute them with other legumes or skip them!
– Can I prepare it in advance? It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients beforehand.

Patbingsu (Red Bean Ice Dessert)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:36 PM

4. Vegan Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)

Dreaming of a warm, gooey treat? Hotteok is a beloved Korean street food that satisfies that craving perfectly. These sweet pancakes are crispy on the outside and filled with a delightful mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. This vegan version is easy to make and is sure to bring comfort with every bite, making it a perfect snack or dessert for any time of the day!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of yeast
– 3/4 cup of warm water
– Filling: 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts or peanuts)

Instructions:
1. Combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Mix well.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough and let it rise for 30 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into balls and flatten each one.
4. Fill with the sugar-nut mixture and seal tightly.
5. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

FAQs:
– Can I add other fillings? Absolutely! Try fruits or chocolate for a fun twist.
– What if I don’t have yeast? You can use baking powder as a substitute, though it will alter the texture.

Vegan Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:37 PM

5. Tteok (Korean Rice Cake)

If you’re in the mood for something chewy and satisfying, Tteok is the way to go! This Korean rice cake comes in various flavors and forms, making it a versatile treat. This vegan recipe uses sweet rice flour and can be filled with sweetened red beans or fruits, making it perfect for snacking or pairing with tea. Enjoy the delightful chewy texture that will keep you coming back for more!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup of sweet rice flour
– 1/4 cup of sugar
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1/2 cup of sweetened red bean paste or fruit filling of choice

Instructions:
1. Mix sweet rice flour, sugar, and water to form a dough.
2. Divide into small portions and flatten each into discs.
3. Place a spoonful of filling in the center and fold to seal.
4. Steam for about 20 minutes until translucent and cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I use regular rice flour? Sweet rice flour is preferred for its sticky texture.
– How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container and re-steam before serving.

Fun fact: Tteok is made with sweet rice flour, creating a chewy texture that stays soft for days. For vegan Korean recipes dessert, you can prep in under 30 minutes and fill with sweetened red beans or fruit—easy, customizable, delicious.

Tteok (Korean Rice Cake)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:38 PM

6. Vegan Jeolpyeon (Rice Cake with Fruits)

Want a dessert that’s as pretty as it is tasty? Jeolpyeon is the answer! This colorful rice cake is rolled with sweetened fruit, creating a beautiful and delicious treat that’s perfect for special occasions. This vegan version highlights seasonal fruits, adding flavor and vibrant colors to your dessert table. They are not just delightful to look at but also a unique snack that everyone will love!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup of sweet rice flour
– 1/4 cup of fruit juice (like mango or berry)
– 1/2 cup of diced seasonal fruits (kiwi, strawberries, or banana)

Instructions:
1. Mix sweet rice flour and fruit juice to form a thick batter.
2. Steam the batter for about 10 minutes until set.
3. Once cooled, roll it out and place diced fruits inside.
4. Roll it up into a log and slice into round pieces.

FAQs:
– Can I use other juices? Yes, any sweetened juice works well!
– How should I store these? Keep them in the fridge in an airtight container.

Fun fact: Vegan Jeolpyeon creates a rainbow bite—use 3–4 colors of sweetened fruit for a stunning, shareable korean recipes dessert. Your guests will love the colors and the bite.

Vegan Jeolpyeon (Rice Cake with Fruits)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:38 PM

7. Vegan Choco Pie (Korean Treat)

Craving something sweet and chocolatey? Choco Pie is a Korean classic that combines soft cake layers with a creamy filling and a chocolate coating. This vegan version swaps out eggs and dairy, making it suitable for everyone while still delivering on flavor. The combination of all these elements creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for snacking or dessert!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 1/2 cup of almond milk
– Filling: 1 cup of vegan marshmallow fluff
– Coating: 200g of dark chocolate (vegan)

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine the flour, cocoa powder, and sugar in a bowl.
3. Add almond milk and mix until smooth.
4. Spoon dollops onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
5. Let them cool, fill with marshmallow fluff, and dip in melted dark chocolate.

FAQs:
– Can I use milk chocolate? Yes, as long as it’s dairy-free for a vegan option.
– How do I prevent them from sticking? Use parchment paper for easy removal!

Vegan Choco Pie (Korean Treat)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:38 PM

8. Vegan Matcha Brownies (with a Twist)

Looking for a dessert that stands out? These vegan matcha brownies hit the spot! They combine the rich, fudgy goodness of traditional brownies with the unique, earthy flavor of matcha. Perfect for chocolate lovers seeking something a bit different, and the addition of nuts or seeds elevates them even further. Enjoy them as a sweet treat or share them with friends for a delightful surprise!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup of almond flour
– 1/2 cup of cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup of maple syrup
– 1/4 cup of almond milk
– 1 tablespoon of matcha powder
– 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
3. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.

FAQs:
– Can I use other flours? Yes, but it may change the texture.
– How do I store them? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for several days.

Vegan Matcha Brownies (with a Twist)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:38 PM

9. Yaksik (Sweet Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit)

Want a dessert that feels like a warm hug? Yaksik is a traditional Korean sweet rice dish that’s perfect for special occasions. Made with chewy rice, mixed nuts, and dried fruits, this vegan recipe captures the festive spirit beautifully. It’s sweetened naturally and packed with flavors, making it a wholesome dessert that is both satisfying and comforting!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups of sweet rice (or glutinous rice)
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1/2 cup of mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds)
– 1/2 cup of dried fruits (raisins, apricots)

Instructions:
1. Soak the sweet rice in water for 3 hours and then drain.
2. Steam the rice for 20-25 minutes until cooked.
3. In a bowl, combine the cooked rice with brown sugar, soy sauce, nuts, and dried fruits.
4. Mix well and serve warm or chilled.

FAQs:
– Can I use regular rice? Sweet rice is best for texture.
– How should I store it? Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Fun fact: Yaksik blends 2 cups of sweet rice with 1/4 cup brown sugar and dried fruits. It’s a naturally sweet, vegan Korean dessert—part of the Korean recipes dessert you can serve at celebrations.

Yaksik (Sweet Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:38 PM

10. Vegan Dalgona Candy (Korean Honeycomb Toffee)

Feeling nostalgic for sweet treats? Dalgona candy is a fun and crispy Korean dessert that has gained fame for its airy texture and delightful crunch. This vegan version keeps it simple, using just a few ingredients to create a delicious candy that can be enjoyed on its own or used to decorate other desserts. It’s a sweet project that’s perfect for both kids and adults!

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
– 1 tablespoon of water

Instructions:
1. In a pan, combine sugar and water over low heat until melted.
2. Once melted, add baking soda and stir quickly until it turns golden and bubbles up.
3. Pour onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten it down.
4. Let cool and break into pieces.

FAQs:
– Is it hard to make? Not at all! It’s simple and fun for beginners!
– Can I keep it for a long time? Best enjoyed fresh for the best texture.

Vegan Dalgona Candy (Korean Honeycomb Toffee)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:41 PM

11. Vegan Agar-Agar Jelly (Korean Fruit Jelly)

In search of a light and refreshing dessert? Agar-agar jelly offers a delightful wobble and vibrant colors, perfect for a sweet treat. This vegan version uses agar-agar for a guilt-free dessert that can be flavored with a variety of fruit juices or purees. It’s not only visually appealing but also a refreshing way to enjoy fruit in a fun form!

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon of agar-agar powder
– 2 cups of fruit juice (orange, apple, etc.)
– 1/4 cup of sugar (adjust based on juice sweetness)

Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine agar-agar powder and fruit juice.
2. Bring to a boil, stirring continuously until the agar dissolves.
3. Pour into molds and let set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
4. Once set, remove from molds and serve chilled.

FAQs:
– Can I use other types of gelling agents? No, agar-agar is preferred for a vegan option.
– How long does it last? Keep chilled in the fridge for up to a week.

Vegan Agar-Agar Jelly (Korean Fruit Jelly)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:41 PM

12. Vegan Hodo Gwaja (Walnut Cake)

Looking for a snack that’s soft, nutty, and delicious? Hodo gwaja, or walnut cake, combines a tender cake exterior with a rich walnut filling. This vegan adaptation maintains traditional flavors while being plant-based, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Perfect for tea time or as a quick snack, these cakes are sure to please your taste buds!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup of flour
– 1/2 cup of ground walnuts
– 1/4 cup of sugar
– 1/2 cup of plant milk
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon of baking powder

Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle maker.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, ground walnuts, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add plant milk and vegetable oil to create a batter.
4. Pour into a preheated waffle maker and cook until golden brown.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I replace walnuts with other nuts? Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorites!
– How do I store them? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature.

Vegan Hodo Gwaja (Walnut Cake)

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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 5:40 PM

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🍧

BEGINNER

Master Vegan Bingsu

Learn to make Vegan Bingsu with ice and plant-based toppings for a refreshing summer dessert.

🍵

PRO TIP

Experiment with Matcha

Try incorporating matcha into Vegan Brownies for a unique flavor twist that’s both trendy and delicious.

🍰

ADVANCED

Perfect Your Rice Cakes

Practice making Songpyeon and Tteok to enjoy authentic Korean flavors and textures in your desserts.

🌰

QUICK WIN

Add Nuts for Crunch

Incorporate nuts into Yaksik or Hodo Gwaja for added texture and nutritional benefits in your desserts.

🍬

ESSENTIAL

Try Vegan Dalgona

Make Vegan Dalgona Candy as a fun project that captures the essence of traditional Korean confectionery.

🍇

BEGINNER

Explore Fruit Jellies

Create Vegan Agar-Agar Jelly with fresh fruits for a light, colorful dessert that’s easy to prepare.

Conclusion

Exploring these twelve vegan Korean dessert recipes not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also offers a delightful glimpse into Korean culinary traditions. From the refreshing bingsu to the comforting hotteok, each treat brings a unique flavor that stands out. The best part? You can create these delicious desserts in your own kitchen! So gather your ingredients and get ready for a delightful baking adventure.

Don’t forget to share your creations, and let us know your favorite recipes from this list!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these 12 Korean dessert recipes stand out for vegan eaters?

This collection showcases Korean desserts that are naturally vegan or easy to adapt, using plant-based ingredients like rice flour, red bean paste, sesame, fruit, and various plant milks. You’ll discover unique flavor combinations that pair traditional Korean sweets with modern twists, all without dairy or eggs. To get started, choose a recipe that uses simple pantry staples and swap in your favorite vegan milk if needed.

Pro-tip: read through the steps first and pick one that doesn’t require specialized equipment.

Can these desserts be adapted for gluten-free or allergy-friendly kitchens?

Yes. Most Korean sweets rely on rice flour or bean pastes, which are naturally gluten-free. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free rice flour or millet flour; for nut allergies, swap nut toppings for seeds; for dairy-free, use plant-based milks and coconut cream. Always check labels on mixes and toppings.

Tips: keep a simple pantry with rice flour, red bean paste, sesame, and matcha.

Where can I find ingredients to make these vegan Korean desserts?

Local Asian markets and Korean grocery stores are great, and online retailers can help with hard-to-find items like sweet rice flour, red bean paste, mugwort powder, and sesame seeds. Start with common pantry staples and then explore specialty ingredients.

You can also substitute with regular pantry staples if needed, such as coconut milk or almond milk for dairy alternatives.

How should I store and serve these sweet treats for best flavor?

Most vegan Korean desserts stay fresh for 2–4 days in the fridge; some fillings can be frozen for longer. Store in airtight containers, label with the date, and reheat gently by steaming or microwaving in short bursts. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled to bring out flavors like green tea, red bean, or other sweet notes.

Pro-tip: wrap individually to keep moisture out and make them easy to share.

Which recipe in the collection is easiest for beginners, and which best showcases the unique flavor combinations?

For beginners, start with a simple, rice flour–based dessert that requires minimal steps. To wow guests, try a dessert that blends classic Korean flavors with a twist—think matcha with sesame or fruity fillings—demonstrating unique flavor combinations while staying vegan.

Remember to taste as you go and adjust sweetness with natural syrups like rice syrup or agave to suit your palate.

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