12 Must-Try Indonesian Desserts You’ve Never Heard Of (But Will Crave!)

Indonesian cuisine is often celebrated for its savory dishes, but prepare to be utterly amazed by its dessert scene. It’s a sweet-lover’s paradise that extends far beyond the beaches of Bali, overflowing with unique Indonesian desserts just waiting to be discovered. If you think you know sweet treats, get ready for a flavor adventure unlike any other, because this collection of 12 Indonesian desserts is going to completely redefine your definition of “delicious.” Forget the usual tourist fare – we’re about to unveil hidden culinary gems, must-try Indonesian desserts that are so incredible, they’re practically guaranteed to ignite your cravings and leave you wondering where these flavors have been all your life. From subtly sweet to intensely rich, get ready to explore the diverse and captivating world of authentic Indonesian desserts, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite sweet treats.

Roti Bakar: Indonesian Toast with Toppings

Roti Bakar is a delightful Indonesian toast that’s perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. It features grilled bread topped with a variety of delicious ingredients, making it a fun treat suitable for everyone. The combination of crispy toast and rich toppings makes each bite a delightful experience.

This recipe is simple to whip up and offers endless possibilities for personalization. You can use classic toppings like chocolate or cheese, or get creative with unique Indonesian flavors. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying treat!

Ingredients

• 4 slices of thick bread (white or whole grain)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup chocolate sauce
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (preferably cheddar)
• Chopped nuts or chocolate sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat a grill pan or toaster. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place the bread, buttered side down, on the grill. Grill until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Flip the bread and spread sweetened condensed milk on top. Add grated cheese and drizzle chocolate sauce over everything.
4. Continue grilling until the cheese melts and the bread is crispy, about another 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped nuts or chocolate sprinkles, and serve warm.

Putu Ayu: Steamed Coconut Cake

Putu Ayu is a delightful steamed coconut cake that brings a burst of flavor and texture in every bite. With its soft, fluffy layers of cake complemented by a generous sprinkle of grated coconut, this dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of saltiness. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a must-try among unique Indonesian desserts.

This cake is surprisingly easy to make, even for those new to how to make Indonesian desserts. With its vibrant green color from pandan leaves, Putu Ayu not only tastes great but also looks beautiful on a dessert table. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack, this traditional Indonesian sweet is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon pandan extract or 2-3 pandan leaves, blended
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add coconut milk and pandan extract (or blended pandan leaves) until you have a smooth batter.
2. Prepare the Steamer: Fill a steamer pot with water and bring it to a boil. Grease small cups or molds with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
3. Pour the Batter: Fill each cup or mold halfway with the batter. Place them in the steamer and cover. Steam for about 10-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Add Coconut Topping: Remove the cups from the steamer and sprinkle grated coconut on top. Return them to the steamer for an additional 5 minutes to set the topping.
5. Serve: Let them cool slightly before removing from the molds. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful treat!

Bubur Injin: Black Sticky Rice Pudding

Bubur Injin is a delightful Indonesian dessert that showcases the unique flavors of black sticky rice. This pudding is not only rich in texture but also has a subtly sweet taste, often enhanced with coconut milk. It’s a wonderful treat for anyone looking to experience authentic Indonesian sweets.

This recipe is quite simple to make, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned cooks. The combination of the chewy rice and creamy coconut creates a comforting dessert that can easily be enjoyed at any time of the day. It’s perfect for those who want to try something new and indulge in a little tropical goodness!

Ingredients

• 1 cup black sticky rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons pandan leaves, tied in a knot (optional)
• Fresh fruit or additional coconut cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse the black sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for at least 3 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and place it in a pot with 2 cups of fresh water. Add the pandan leaves if using. Cook over medium heat, bringing it to a simmer.
3. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the water.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves, but do not let it boil.
5. Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the pandan leaves and stir in half of the sweetened coconut milk into the rice.
6. Serve the Bubur Injin warm or chilled, drizzled with the remaining coconut milk and topped with fresh fruit or extra coconut cream if desired.

Kue Cubir: Colorful Sweet Rice Cake

Kue Cubir is a delightful Indonesian dessert that’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. These colorful sweet rice cakes are often layered and come in a variety of vibrant hues. The soft, chewy texture combined with the subtle sweetness makes it a popular choice among traditional Indonesian sweets. Plus, they’re quite simple to make, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers who want to try their hand at unique Indonesian desserts.

This dessert is often enjoyed during special occasions or as a delightful snack. Each layer can be flavored differently, allowing you to mix and match flavors for a fun twist. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed at home, Kue Cubir is sure to impress with its look and taste. Ready to make your own? Here’s how!

Ingredients

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pandan juice (for green color)
• 2 teaspoons butterfly pea flower extract (for blue color)
• 2 teaspoons food coloring (red, yellow, and other colors as desired)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, salt, and coconut milk. Mix well until smooth.
2. Divide the Batter: Split the batter into several portions, depending on how many colors you want to use. Add different food coloring or extracts to each portion, mixing until the colors are well incorporated.
3. Steam the Layers: Grease a cake pan or tray and pour the first colored batter into it. Steam for about 10-15 minutes until set. Then, pour the next layer of a different color on top, steaming again until set. Repeat this process until all layers are complete.
4. Cool and Slice: Once all layers are cooked, let the cake cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve.

Pisang Goreng: Fried Banana Treats

Pisang Goreng, or fried bananas, is a beloved snack throughout Indonesia. These crispy, golden delights are both sweet and indulgent, making them a perfect treat any time of the day. The soft, warm banana inside contrasts beautifully with the crunchy exterior, giving a satisfying bite every time. Plus, making them at home is quite simple, so you can enjoy a taste of tropical Indonesian treats in your own kitchen!

This dessert is versatile, too. You can serve Pisang Goreng plain, or dip them in chocolate sauce for an extra sweet touch. They also pair wonderfully with ice cream or fresh fruit, making them a hit at gatherings or a delightful dessert for any occasion. If you love trying unique Indonesian desserts, this recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 4 ripe bananas (preferably plantains)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup rice flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup water (or more as needed)
• Oil for frying
• Honey and sesame seeds for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bananas: Peel the bananas and slice them lengthwise in half or into quarters, depending on your preference.
2. Make the Batter: In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, rice flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add water until you achieve a thick batter.
3. Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil over medium heat for frying. You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of batter sizzles upon contact.
4. Fry the Bananas: Dip each banana piece into the batter, letting the excess drip off. Carefully place them in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the bananas and let them drain on paper towels. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle sesame seeds if desired, then enjoy your Pisang Goreng warm!

Klepon: Sweet Coconut Rice Balls

Klepon is a delightful traditional Indonesian sweet that brings a burst of flavor in each bite. These cute little rice balls are made from glutinous rice flour, colored with pandan for a beautiful green hue, and filled with a rich, gooey palm sugar center. Once cooked, they’re rolled in fresh grated coconut, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and texture. Making Klepon is quite easy, making it a great choice for both seasoned bakers and those new to Indonesian desserts.

The taste of Klepon is simply irresistible. The chewy exterior gives way to a sweet, molten core, all while the coconut coating adds a hint of freshness. They are definitely one of the must-try Indonesian desserts that showcase the beauty of traditional flavors with a modern touch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1-2 teaspoons pandan extract or food coloring (green)
• 1/4 cup palm sugar, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup grated coconut (preferably fresh)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, pandan extract, and warm water. Mix until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, a teaspoon at a time.
2. Shape the Balls: Take a small portion of the dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a small piece of palm sugar in the center and mold the dough around it, forming a ball. Repeat until all the dough and filling are used.
3. Cook the Klepon: Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the balls into the boiling water. Once they float to the surface, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain.
4. Coat with Coconut: In a separate bowl, mix the grated coconut with a pinch of salt. Roll the cooked Klepon in the coconut to coat evenly.
5. Serve: Enjoy the Klepon warm or at room temperature, and watch as the sweet palm sugar oozes out when you take a bite!

Es Teler: Indonesian Fruit Cocktail

Es Teler is a delightful Indonesian fruit cocktail that brings a burst of tropical flavors into every spoonful. This refreshing treat combines a variety of fresh fruits, coconut milk, and sometimes a splash of syrup for added sweetness. It’s a simple and enjoyable dessert to make at home, perfect for warm days when you crave something light and fruity.

The blend of sweet fruits and creamy coconut milk creates a satisfying balance, making it one of the best Indonesian desserts to share with friends and family. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite fruits, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Let’s dive into how to make this unique Indonesian dessert!

Ingredients

• 1 cup diced avocado
• 1 cup diced mango
• 1 cup diced papaya
• 1 cup cooked jackfruit, sliced
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1/4 cup condensed milk (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon matcha powder (for matcha syrup)
• 1/4 cup sugar (for syrup)
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Matcha Syrup: In a small pot, combine the sugar and 1/2 cup water. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then stir in the matcha powder. Let it cool.
2. Assemble the Fruits: In a large bowl, mix together the diced avocado, mango, papaya, and jackfruit.
3. Make the Coconut Milk Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the coconut milk and condensed milk until well combined.
4. Serve: In serving bowls or cups, layer the mixed fruits and top with ice cubes. Pour the coconut milk mixture over the fruits and drizzle with matcha syrup.
5. Garnish with mint leaves and serve immediately for a refreshing experience.

Kue Lapis: Layered Cake

Kue Lapis is a delightful Indonesian layered cake that combines both beautiful colors and unique flavors. This cake features many thin layers, typically made from rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, giving it a rich, slightly chewy texture. The layers can be infused with various natural colors and flavors, making it not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes!

Making Kue Lapis is relatively simple, making it a popular choice for home bakers. This cake is often served at celebrations and special occasions, and its vibrant layers are sure to impress guests. If you’re looking for a unique dessert to try, Kue Lapis is a must-try Indonesian dessert that brings a modern twist to traditional flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rice flour
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pandan extract (or food coloring for different layers)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add coconut milk and water until the mixture is smooth. Divide the batter into different bowls for coloring.
2. Color the Layers: Add pandan extract or food coloring to each bowl to create vibrant layers. Mix well to achieve your desired colors.
3. Layering: Grease a cake pan and pour in a layer of your first colored batter. Steam for about 10 minutes. Once set, pour in the next layer, alternating colors until all the batter is used.
4. Final Steaming: After layering, steam the cake for an additional 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. Let it cool before slicing.
5. Serve: Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy this beautiful and tasty Kue Lapis!

Serabi: Traditional Indonesian Pancakes

Serabi are delightful traditional Indonesian pancakes that bring a unique twist to breakfast or dessert. These fluffy, coconut-infused cakes are often served warm, topped with sweet syrup or fruit, making them a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also quite simple to prepare, which is a bonus for anyone looking to try their hand at making easy Indonesian desserts.

The pancakes have a light, airy texture with a subtle sweetness, enhanced by the rich flavor of coconut milk. You can enjoy them plain or dress them up with toppings like chocolate, fresh fruits, or even modern twists like passion fruit glaze. If you’re exploring the best desserts from Indonesia, serabi is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice flour
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup water (if needed)
• Cooking oil for frying
• Optional toppings: sugar syrup, fresh fruits, or chocolate sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, coconut milk, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix until smooth. If the batter is too thick, add a bit of water to reach a pourable consistency.
2. Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with cooking oil.
3. Cook the Pancakes: Pour a ladle of batter onto the skillet. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes until bubbles form on top and the edges start to set. Do not flip the pancake.
4. Serve: Once cooked, transfer to a plate, and serve warm with your choice of toppings, such as sugar syrup, fresh fruits, or chocolate sauce.

Tape Ketan: Fermented Sticky Rice Dessert

Tape Ketan is a delightful Indonesian dessert made from sticky rice that has been fermented, resulting in a unique texture and flavor. This sweet treat has a subtle tanginess, balanced with the sweetness of palm sugar, and is often topped with coconut. It’s one of those easy Indonesian desserts that feels special yet is simple enough to make at home. Perfect for any gathering, it showcases the beautiful balance of flavors typical in authentic Indonesian sweets.

To prepare Tape Ketan, you’ll start by soaking glutinous rice overnight and then steaming it until tender. After that, it’s mixed with a special fermentation starter, usually from the leaves of the tapai plant, and allowed to ferment for a day or two. The result is a tender, slightly sweet, and aromatic dessert that can be enjoyed as is or paired with fresh fruits. If you’re curious about how to make Indonesian desserts, Tape Ketan is a fantastic recipe to try!

Ingredients

• 2 cups glutinous rice
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup palm sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup fermented tapioca starter (tapai)
• Banana or jackfruit (optional, for serving)
• Grated coconut (for topping)

Instructions

1. Soak the glutinous rice in water overnight. Drain the rice and steam it for about 30 minutes until tender.
2. Once cooked, transfer the sticky rice to a mixing bowl and allow it to cool slightly. Add the fermented tapioca starter and mix well.
3. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it sit in a warm place for 24-48 hours to ferment.
4. After fermentation, combine the coconut milk, palm sugar, and salt in a small saucepan. Heat over low until the sugar dissolves.
5. Serve the fermented sticky rice in small bowls, drizzled with the coconut milk mixture, and top with grated coconut and fruits if desired.

Dadar Gulung: Rolled Green Pancakes

Dadar Gulung is a delightful Indonesian dessert that combines vibrant green pancakes with a sweet coconut filling. The pancakes are made from pandan leaves, giving them a lovely aroma and a striking color. This treat is soft, slightly chewy, and perfect for those who enjoy a balance of flavors.

Making Dadar Gulung is simple, making it a great option for both novice and experienced bakers. The combination of the sweet coconut filling and the subtle pandan flavor creates a unique taste that is both comforting and delicious. It’s a must-try among the best Indonesian desserts!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons pandan juice (or a few drops of pandan extract)
• 1 cup grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
• 1/4 cup sugar (for filling)
• Pinch of salt (for filling)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)

Instructions

1. Make the Pancake Batter: In a bowl, mix the flour, coconut milk, water, sugar, salt, and pandan juice until smooth. Let it rest for about 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, combine grated coconut, sugar, pinch of salt, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in a ladle of pancake batter and swirl to form a thin layer. Cook until the edges lift, then flip and cook for another minute. Repeat until all batter is used.
4. Assemble: Place a pancake on a plate, add a spoonful of the coconut filling, and roll it up tightly. Repeat with the remaining pancakes and filling.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Dadar Gulung warm or at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days.

Cendol: Iced Coconut Milk Dessert

Cendol is a refreshing Indonesian dessert that’s perfect for hot days. This icy treat combines creamy coconut milk with green rice flour jelly and palm sugar syrup, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It’s sweet, slightly chewy, and oh-so-satisfying.

Making cendol at home is straightforward and doesn’t require fancy ingredients. It’s a fun way to explore traditional Indonesian sweets while adding your personal touch. You can even experiment with modern Indonesian dessert recipes by pairing cendol with espresso for a unique twist!

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice flour
• 1/2 cup green pandan juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1/2 cup palm sugar, grated
• 1/4 cup water
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cendol: In a bowl, mix rice flour, pandan juice, salt, and enough water to form a thick batter. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then use a cendol maker or a sieve to press the batter through into the boiling water. Cook for about 5 minutes until the jelly is firm. Remove and cool in cold water.
2. Make the Coconut Milk: In a saucepan, heat coconut milk with a pinch of salt. Do not boil; just warm it through.
3. Prepare the Palm Sugar Syrup: Combine grated palm sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool.
4. Assemble the Dessert: In a glass, layer the cendol jelly, pour in the warm coconut milk, and drizzle with palm sugar syrup. Top with ice cubes and enjoy your homemade cendol!

Find Indonesian-Inspired Desserts Near You
If you’re excited to try these Indonesian desserts or want to find local businesses offering authentic or fusion-style treats, check out our dessert directory to support small businesses near you. Enjoy the rich flavors of Indonesian sweets made with passion and tradition.

For those eager to experiment with these flavors at home, why not share your favorite recipes? Submit your dessert recipe here and become part of a growing community of dessert lovers celebrating international flavors.

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These 12 must-try Indonesian desserts showcase the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia, offering flavors and textures unlike anything you’ve had before. Whether you’re indulging in them for the first time or rediscovering a longtime favorite, these treats are guaranteed to satisfy and surprise.

At Cream Filled Churros, we’re here to inspire your next dessert adventure. Try these Indonesian dessert recipes and experience the magic of Southeast Asian sweets in your own kitchen!