6 Unique Desserts and Their Origins

Ever heard of Halo-halo ice? Spaghettiis? or Kulfis? Let's explore unique desserts from various countries
Share Article

Need to beat the heat of summer? Or are you craving something fresh? Experience the flavors of the world with our list of the best cold desserts from around the world. As some of these treats are growing in popularity, they may already be available at a restaurant or cafe near you.

1. Halo-Halo from Philippines

Halo-halo is a Filipino dessert consisting of various fruits, nuts and other sweet treats. The name halo-halo comes from the Filipino word for "mixture." Halos are usually served in tall glasses or bowls, and are often garnished with a scoop of ice cream on top.

Halo-halo from Philippines
Halo-halo from Philippines

The most common fruits used in halos are mangoes, bananas, and papayas. Other popular ingredients include ubi (purple sweet potato), macapuno (a type of coconut), pinipig (crispy rice flakes), and leche flan (pudding dessert). Halos can also be made with different types of beans, such as green beans, garbanzo beans, and black beans.

To make halos, the ingredients are first mixed together in a large bowl. The mixture is then placed in individual serving bowls or glasses. Ice cream is added on top, and halos are garnished with a sprig of mint or a slice of lime.

Where to stay in Phillipines?

2. Es Cendol from Malaysia

Es Cendol is a refreshing Malaysian dessert made with green rice flour jelly, palm sugar syrup and coconut milk. Often served with shaved ice and a spoonful of red bean paste.

Es Cendol from Malaysia
Es Cendol from Malaysia

The origin of Es Cendol is unclear, but it is thought to have originated on the Indonesian island of Java. This dish reached Malaysia during the British colonial era. Es Cendol is quickly becoming a popular dessert among Malaysians of all ethnicities.

Today, Es Cendol can be found in most Malaysian restaurants and hawker stalls. It is a popular choice for those who want to relax on a hot day. This dish is also popular during the fasting month of Ramadan, as it is a refreshing and satisfying way to break the fast.

Where to stay in Malaysia?

3. Semifreddo from Italy

Semifreddo is a traditional Italian dessert that can be traced back to the early 19th century. It is made with a base of egg yolks, sugar, and cream, which are beaten together and then frozen. The resulting mixture is light and airy, and has a rich flavour.

Semifreddo from Italy
Semifreddo from Italy

There are many different ways to make a semifreddo, but the most common method is to coat it with fruit or chocolate. It can also be served alone, or with a dollop of whipped cream.

Semifreddo is a popular choice for summer parties and picnics, because it can be pre-made and requires no special equipment. It's also a great option for those looking for a lighter dessert option.

If you happen to be in Italy, be sure to try this delicious treat!

Where to stay in Italy?

4. Spaghettieis from Germany

In Germany, the popular ice cream is Spaghettieis. It's made to look like a plate of spaghetti, with vanilla ice cream representing the noodles, strawberry sauce as tomato sauce, and grated chocolate as Parmesan cheese.

Spaghettieis
Spaghettieis from Germany

This unique ice cream flavor was created in 1969 by Dario Fontanella, an Italian immigrant who owned an ice cream parlor in Stuttgart, Germany. He wanted to create new flavors that would appeal to both Germans and Italians.

Spaghettieis has become a popular flavor not only in Germany, but also in other countries such as Austria, Switzerland, and even the United States. If you're ever in Germany during the summer months, be sure to try this delicious treat!

Where to stay in Germany?

5. I-Tim-Pad from Thailand

Rolled ice cream? Yes, it's from Thailand. Also sometimes called stir-fried ice cream, I-Tim-Pad started out as a popular street food that has since become a major ice cream trend around the world. The I-Tim-Pad is also very Instagrammable.

I-Tim-Pad from Thailand
I-Tim-Pad from Thailand

Made by pouring your ice cream base and flavor of choice into a frozen pan, the mixture immediately freezes into a thin layer that can be scraped into smooth rolls served vertically in an ice cream cup. I-Tim-Pad is a popular dessert in Thailand and is often served on special occasions such as weddings or parties. It is also a popular street food.

If you visit Thailand, be sure to try I-Tim-Pad!

Where to stay in Thailand?

6. Kulfi from India

Kulfi is a traditional Indian dessert made of milk, cream and nuts. It is usually served cold and has a very rich and creamy taste. Kulfi is often confused with ice cream, but it's actually quite different. For starters, Kulfi is made with condensed milk, which gives it a richer taste. The texture is also denser than ice cream.

Kulfi from India
Kulfi from India

Kulfi originates from the Indian subcontinent and is thought to date back to the 16th century. The word "kulfi" comes from the Persian word for "ice". It is believed that Mughal Emperor Akbar was the first to enjoy this delicious treat.

Kulfi was originally made by freezing sweetened milk in a clay pot. This method of preparation makes it quite time-consuming and labor-intensive. However, over time, people started experimenting with different ways of making Kulfi. Today, it is usually made with evaporated milk or heavy cream, not condensed milk. Nuts, spices, and fruit are often added for flavor.

If you are looking for a delicious and unique dessert to try on your next trip to India, be sure to try Kulfi!

Where to stay in India?

Reference: Expedia

Share Article