11 Must-Try Sweet Treats from Around the Globe

One of the greatest joys of travel is the opportunity to savor the unique flavors of each country and region. Every destination offers its own array of dishes, drinks, and, most importantly for those with a sweet tooth, desserts. If you’re like me, you’ll always save room for a local delicacy to indulge in a sweet treat at the end of the day. Throughout my travels across the world, I’ve had the pleasure of tasting so many wonderful desserts, but there are a few that truly stand out as favorites—ones I’d happily return for time and time again. Here, I’ll share 11 different desserts from 10 different countries that are absolutely worth trying if you ever find yourself in that part of the world!

Mochi – Japan

Starting off with the famous Japanese mochi—a dessert beloved for its sweet flavor and chewy texture. Mochi is made from glutinous rice that is pounded repeatedly into a sticky, stretchy dough. Traditionally, it’s filled with red bean paste, but you’ll also find versions with fresh fruit or even ice cream, offering an endless variety of flavors. In Japan, the options seem limitless, with unique flavors such as banana, matcha, chocolate, and cherry blossom. If you have the chance, visit a mochi shop where you can sample different flavors and discover your favorite. Many shops also provide the opportunity to watch local artisans make mochi in the traditional way, pounding the rice by hand in a lively and engaging process. You’ll find mochi everywhere in Japan, from convenience stores like 7-Eleven to high-end restaurants, so be sure to save some room after sushi to enjoy this delightful treat!

Turkish Delight – Turkey

Turkey is renowned for its wide variety of sweet treats, and Turkish delight (known locally as lokum) is undoubtedly one of the most famous. In Istanbul, especially in the bustling markets and bazaars, you’ll encounter stalls overflowing with colorful displays of Turkish delight. These chewy, sweet cubes are made from sugar, starch, and flavorings like rose water or lemon and often contain fillings like nuts or dried fruit. Topped with powdered sugar or more nuts, they offer a vibrant burst of flavor in every bite. As you wander through Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, vendors will invite you to sample different varieties and combinations, making it easy to find your personal favorite. Whether you’re a fan of rose, pistachio, or even pomegranate-flavored lokum, this iconic Turkish dessert is a must-try when visiting the country.

Baklava – Greece

Although baklava is common in both Turkey and Greece, you’ll find this delicious dessert throughout Greece’s mainland and islands. Baklava consists of thin layers of filo dough, filled with finely chopped nuts—such as walnuts or pistachios—and soaked in sweet syrup or honey, making it a sticky and wonderful treat. The crispy, flaky dough combined with the rich, syrupy filling creates a delightful combination of texture and flavor. Whether you’re at a local bakery or enjoying it as a dessert at a taverna, baklava is a staple in Greek cuisine. With variations depending on the type of nuts used and the addition of ingredients like cinnamon, you’ll find endless varieties to try. It’s the perfect pick-me-up, whether you’re enjoying it after a meal or with a cup of Greek coffee in the afternoon.

Mango Sticky Rice – Thailand

In Thailand, one of the most unique yet refreshing desserts you’ll come across is khao neeo mamuang, or mango sticky rice. This dessert consists of fresh, juicy mangoes served on a bed of sticky white rice, topped with sweetened coconut milk. Some variations may include additional toppings such as sesame seeds or condensed milk. This delicious combination of sweet mango and soft, sticky rice creates a flavor experience that is both simple and extraordinary. You’ll find mango sticky rice sold by street vendors and in markets across Thailand, each with slight variations in presentation, but it never disappoints. It’s the perfect dessert to enjoy on a warm evening after indulging in Thai street food.