

Discover the fascinating world of Vietnamese cake through this curated collection of authentic traditional delicacies. From the iconic Chung cake of the North to the delicate water fern cakes of Central Vietnam, each regional specialty showcases unique flavors and time-honored preparation methods that reflect Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage.
Bánh Chưng is one of Vietnam’s most iconic traditional cakes. Made with glutinous rice, pork, and mung beans, it is wrapped in dong leaves to give it a distinctive green color and earthy aroma. The square shape symbolizes the earth, reflecting the ancient Vietnamese belief in the harmony of the universe.
Steamed for hours, Bánh Chưng has a soft, sticky texture and rich, savory filling. It is often served with pickled onions or dipped in soy sauce for added flavor. Beyond its taste, this cake holds deep cultural significance, making it a must-try for anyone exploring Vietnamese cuisine.
Bánh Gai is a traditional Vietnamese cake known for its distinct black color and delightful sweetness. Made with glutinous rice flour and ramie leaves, the cake gets its dark hue and subtle herbal aroma from the ramie. Inside, it is filled with a sweet mixture of mung beans, shredded coconut, or ground peanuts, wrapped in dried banana leaves for a rustic look.
The chewy texture of Bánh Gai, combined with its mildly sweet and nutty filling, makes it a popular snack or dessert. Its unique flavor and cultural significance make it a must-try for anyone seeking to explore the diversity of Vietnamese cuisine.
Bánh cốm is a traditional Vietnamese cake made from young green rice (cốm) that is toasted and then wrapped with a sweet filling, often made of mung beans or coconut. The cake has a soft, chewy texture, with the toasted rice giving it a unique nutty flavor. It is often wrapped in banana leaves, which add a subtle fragrance to the cake.
The soft, chewy texture of Bánh Cốm, combined with the sweet filling and nutty undertones of the rice, makes it a perfect snack or dessert. Its cultural significance and unique flavor make it a must-try treat for those exploring Northern Vietnamese sweets.
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Bánh Bèo is a beloved specialty from central Vietnam, known for its soft, steamed rice cake base and flavorful toppings. The name “Bánh Bèo” translates to “water fern cake,” as its round, thin shape resembles a water fern leaf. The cake is typically topped with minced shrimp, crispy pork skin, scallion oil, and a drizzle of fish sauce, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
The soft, slightly chewy rice cakes pair beautifully with the savory toppings, and the accompanying fish sauce enhances the flavor. Served on small plates, Bánh Bèo is often eaten in sets, making it a perfect communal dish to share with friends and family.
Bánh Ít Lá Gai is a traditional Vietnamese cake with a distinct greenish-black hue, made from glutinous rice flour and lá gai (ramie leaves). These leaves give the cake its unique color and a mildly herbal flavor. The filling usually consists of sweet mung bean paste or grated coconut, and the cake is wrapped in banana leaves, adding a rustic charm.
The chewy, slightly sticky texture of Bánh Ít Lá Gai, combined with its sweet filling, creates a harmonious flavor. Its simplicity and connection to traditional ceremonies make it a cherished dessert in Vietnamese culture.
Bánh nậm is a traditional Vietnamese steamed rice cake that showcases the culinary elegance of Huế, the imperial city of Vietnam. Made from a thin layer of rice flour, it is filled with a savory mixture of minced shrimp and pork, seasoned with spices. The cake is wrapped in banana leaves, which infuse it with a delicate aroma during steaming.
The soft, silky texture of the rice cake melts in your mouth, while the flavorful filling offers a delightful contrast. Usually enjoyed with fish sauce for dipping, Bánh Nậm is a must-try for those seeking the refined flavors of central Vietnamese cuisine.
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Bánh Tét is a traditional Vietnamese cake that resembles Bánh Chưng but is cylindrical in shape. Made with glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, it is wrapped in banana leaves and tied tightly before being boiled for hours. Its rich flavor and satisfying texture make it a popular dish during celebrations.
The soft glutinous rice is perfectly balanced by the savory pork and creamy mung beans. Variations of Bánh Tét include sweet fillings like bananas or black beans for those with a sweet tooth. This versatile and meaningful dish is a must-try for anyone exploring Vietnamese festive cuisine.
Bánh chuối hấp is a popular Vietnamese steamed banana cake made with ripe bananas, glutinous rice flour, and sugar. The cake has a moist, soft texture and a natural sweetness from the bananas. It is often flavored with coconut milk, giving it a rich and creamy taste.
Steamed to perfection, Bánh Chuối Hấp offers a comforting taste of ripe bananas with a soft, almost pudding-like consistency. It’s a simple yet delicious dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of bananas, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a treat after meals.
Bánh da lợn is a traditional Vietnamese steamed cake known for its colorful, layered appearance and unique texture. Made from rice flour, tapioca flour, and mung beans, the cake is often flavored with pandan leaves or coconut milk, giving it a subtle, aromatic sweetness. The layers are alternately green and yellow, creating a beautiful visual effect.
The soft, chewy texture of Bánh Da Lợn is complemented by the rich, coconut flavor, making it a delightful treat. Its vibrant colors and layered structure not only make it visually appealing but also offer a sweet, satisfying taste that’s perfect for dessert or an afternoon snack.
Bánh cam is a traditional Vietnamese dessert known for its crispy outer shell and sweet, rich filling. Made from glutinous rice flour, the dough is shaped into small balls and filled with a sweet mixture of mung beans and sugar. The balls are deep-fried until golden brown, creating a crunchy exterior that contrasts with the soft, sweet interior. Some variations include sesame seeds sprinkled on top for extra flavor.
The combination of crispy, golden exterior and sweet mung bean filling makes Bánh Cam a delightful bite. It’s a favorite for those who enjoy a balance of textures, and its simplicity and accessibility make it a beloved treat across Vietnam.
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Each of these cakes brings something special to the table, offering a mix of textures, flavors, and stories from different regions of Vietnam. Whether you’re enjoying them during a festive occasion or as a simple snack, these traditional treats are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, the next time you find yourself in Vietnam, make sure to savor these iconic cakes and experience the heart of Vietnamese culture, one bite at a time!