Malaysia is a multicultural country that offers various cuisines, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, Thai, Javanese, and Sumatran dishes. The cuisine is renowned for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours, created using a blend of staple ingredients, spices, and herbs. Each state features unique dishes, and the food in Malaysia often has a distinct twist compared to the original versions. If you are planning a trip to Malaysia, here are five must-try local desserts.
Cendol is a refreshing dessert made from mung bean flour. The basic ingredients include coconut milk, jelly noodles made from rice flour that is coloured green using pandan extract, shaved ice, and palm sugar. Sometimes, gula melaka syrup is added for extra sweetness, making each bite even more delicious. You can easily find cendol at street stalls and food courts throughout Malaysia. It is a must-try dessert when visiting the country.
Kuih Lapis is a sweet dish made from rice flour and tapioca flour combined with coconut milk. It features a variety of colors, making it visually appealing. This layered cake showcases Malaysia's rich culinary traditions. It is steamed to achieve a chewy texture. Each layer is carefully crafted, offering a subtle sweetness that is perfect for those who prefer desserts that aren’t overly rich. Visitors can enjoy this delightful treat in traditional markets and bakeries.
Apam Balik is an excellent snack made from milk, crushed peanuts, and sweet corn. It is perfect for pancake lovers and is an excellent choice for breakfast, available in both thin and crispy or thick and fluffy varieties. This warm, crispy dessert, filled with a rich and nutty mixture, is cooked until bubbles form and is beloved by both locals and tourists. Visitors can savour this popular dish at night markets, such as Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur.
Ais Kacang is a refreshing and delicious dessert made from shaved ice, sweetened red beans, grass jelly, and sweet corn, and drizzled with condensed milk and Gula Melaka syrup or rose syrup. All these ingredients are mixed in a bowl with shaved ice, creating a delightful treat. You can enjoy this chilled dessert at various food courts and cafes throughout Malaysia.
Dodol is a sweet confection that resembles toffee made from sugar palm. It consists of coconut milk, jaggery, and rice flour, giving it a sticky, thick, and sweet texture. The dodol must be continuously stirred in a large wok throughout the cooking process, as any pauses could cause it to burn, ruining its taste and aroma. The dodol is considered fully cooked when firm and does not stick to your fingers when touched. It is commonly enjoyed during festivals like Hari Raya but can also be found in local markets.