Indulge your sweet tooth with the unique and delicious world of taro desserts! Taro, a starchy vegetable native to Asia, has been gaining popularity in recent years for its nutty flavor and creamy texture when used in sweet treats. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the versatility of taro with the richness of cream. From classic desserts like cheesecake and pudding to creative twists like bubble tea and fried sesame balls, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Taro Bubble Tea
Experience the unique flavor of taro bubble tea with this simple recipe. Taro adds a creamy and slightly sweet dimension to the traditional milk tea, while popping boba provides an extra layer of fun.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup taro paste (or 1/4 cup taro powder mixed with 3/4 cup water)
– 1 tablespoon black tea leaves
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk or milk alternative
– Ice cubes
– Popping boba (boba pearls)
Instructions:
1. Brew the black tea leaves in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, then let it cool.
2. In a large pot, combine the taro paste or mixture and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the taro is smooth.
3. Add the brewed tea to the taro mixture and stir well.
4. Add milk or milk alternative and stir until combined.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. Serve the taro bubble tea over ice with popping boba (boba pearls).
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a cold drink recipe.
Taro Coconut Pudding
This creamy pudding is a unique twist on traditional coconut pudding, with the added earthy sweetness of taro. Perfect as a dessert or snack, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine taro puree, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Taro Mochi
A traditional Japanese dessert, Taro Mochi is a sweet and chewy treat made with taro root, glutinous rice flour, and red bean paste. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe yields soft and delicate mochi that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro root, cooked and mashed
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup red bean paste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine taro root, glutinous rice flour, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in water to form a sticky dough.
3. Knead the dough until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Flatten each ball slightly and place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or oval shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Serve with sesame seeds for garnish, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taro Ice Cream
Experience the unique flavor of taro in this creamy and refreshing dessert. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of taro with a hint of coconut milk for a smooth and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pureed taro (canned or fresh)
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the pureed taro and stir to combine.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, whip the mixture with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
6. Stir in coconut cream and vanilla extract.
7. Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (heating), 2+ hours (chilling)
Taro Cheesecake
Experience the creamy richness of taro cheesecake, with a subtle sweetness and nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cooked taro puree
- Vanilla extract, to taste
Instructions:
- Pulse the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a food processor until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by heavy cream and taro puree. Add vanilla extract to taste.
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust. Smooth the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 55-60 minutes or until the center is set. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Taro Sweet Soup
This sweet and comforting soup is a traditional dessert in many Asian cultures. Made with taro, a starchy vegetable with a unique flavor, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a warm treat on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large taro root, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup evaporated milk
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine taro cubes, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in evaporated milk, cornstarch mixture (mix equal parts milk and cornstarch), and vanilla extract.
3. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until soup thickens slightly.
4. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taro Sticky Rice Cake
This traditional Southeast Asian dessert is a delightful combination of sweet taro and sticky rice, perfect for any occasion. The result is a moist and flavorful cake that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sticky rice (glutinous rice)
– 1/2 cup mashed taro
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pandan extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 6-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked sticky rice, mashed taro, sugar, water, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tips: For an extra fragrant cake, add pandan extract to the mixture before baking. Serve warm or at room temperature, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Taro Custard Tart
Experience the sweet and creamy delight of a traditional French tart with the exotic twist of taro custard filling. This unique dessert is perfect for adventurous foodies looking to add some tropical flair to their gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups taro puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and place in a tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together taro puree, sugar, egg yolks, heavy cream, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the custard mixture into the pastry-lined tart pan.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
6. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Taro Sago Dessert
A traditional Filipino dessert made with taro root and sago (tapioca pearls), this sweet treat is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro root, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup sago (tapioca pearls)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pandan extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the mashed taro root and sago.
2. Add the coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the sago pearls are fully cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in pandan extract, if using.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the dessert to chill and set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taro Pancakes
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these deliciously unique Taro Pancakes! Made with the nutty flavor of taro root, these fluffy pancakes are perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Fresh fruit or whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together taro puree, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Enjoy your Taro Pancakes hot with fresh fruit or whipped cream, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Taro Purple Yam Buns
A delightful fusion of taro and purple yam flavors, these sweet buns are perfect for a breakfast or snack treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup taro puree
– 1/4 cup purple yam puree
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioner’s sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water, yeast, taro puree, and purple yam puree to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into buns.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow buns to cool before serving. Dust with confectioner’s sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taro Chiffon Cake
This moist and airy cake gets its unique flavor and vibrant green color from taro, a starchy root vegetable commonly used in Asian baking. With its light-as-air texture and subtle sweetness, this cake is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup taro puree
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Add taro puree, baking powder, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until just combined.
5. Pour in oil and mix until fully incorporated.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Taro Coconut Milk Jelly
This tropical dessert combines the natural sweetness of taro with the richness of coconut milk, perfect for warm weather or as a unique treat any time of year. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this creamy and refreshing jelly at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon agar agar powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine taro puree, coconut milk, sugar, agar agar powder, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Strain the jelly through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
6. Refrigerate until chilled and set, about 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Taro Red Bean Paste Dumplings
Experience the harmony of sweet and savory flavors with these Taro Red Bean Paste Dumplings, a unique fusion of traditional Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups taro paste
– 1/2 cup red bean paste
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine taro and red bean paste.
2. Add flour and salt, mixing until well combined.
3. Gradually add water to form a dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into small portions.
6. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly.
7. Fry the dumplings in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
8. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Taro Fried Sesame Balls
These crispy and flavorful sesame balls are infused with the natural sweetness of taro, making them a perfect snack or dessert. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these addictive treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups taro powder
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame seeds for coating
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine taro powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add sugar and mix until well combined.
3. Add vegetable oil and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten slightly.
6. Coat each ball with sesame seeds.
7. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
8. Fry the taro balls for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
9. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Taro Coconut Tapioca Pudding
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of taro with the richness of coconut and the creamy texture of tapioca pudding. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons tapioca pearls
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine taro puree, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add tapioca pearls and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the tapioca is cooked (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Taro Mousse Cake
Taro Mousse Cake Recipe
A creamy and light dessert perfect for any occasion, this Taro Mousse Cake is a unique twist on the classic chocolate cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together taro puree, heavy cream, sugar, egg whites, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and softened butter until just combined.
4. Pour the taro mixture into the flour mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Taro Almond Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of taro with the crunch of almonds, making them a perfect snack or dessert. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a batch ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro powder
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Optional: confectioner’s sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together taro powder, flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until smooth. Add the dry ingredients mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in sliced almonds.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Taro Sweet Dumplings in Ginger Syrup
Discover the delightful fusion of taro and ginger in these sweet dumplings, perfect for a unique dessert or snack. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of taro with the warmth of ginger, resulting in a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups taro puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine taro puree, flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add vegetable oil, grated ginger, and water to the mixture. Stir well.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small dumplings (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. Steam the dumplings for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusting with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your Taro Sweet Dumplings in Ginger Syrup!
Taro Coconut Milk Shake
Beat the heat with this refreshing Taro Coconut Milk Shake! Made with taro, coconut milk, and a touch of sweetness, this tropical treat is perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen taro
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves or shredded coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen taro, coconut milk, and Greek yogurt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or shredded coconut, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 creative and delicious creamy taro dessert recipes! From classic treats like Taro Mochi and Taro Ice Cream, to unique fusion desserts like Taro Bubble Tea and Taro Coconut Pudding, there’s something for everyone. Discover the versatility of taro in sweet soups, sticky rice cakes, custard tarts, and more. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Asian desserts or looking to try something new, this collection has got you covered. Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy, taro-tastic treats!