Shanghai’s Must-Try Desserts: Sweet Treats to End Your Meal

Shanghai is a city that dazzles with its skyline, rich history, and vibrant food scene. While its savory dishes like xiaolongbao and hairy crab often steal the spotlight, the city’s dessert culture is equally captivating. From traditional Chinese sweets to modern fusion creations, Shanghai offers a world of sugary delights that are perfect for ending any meal. Whether you’re strolling through the French Concession or exploring the bustling streets of Nanjing Road, here are the must-try desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Classic Chinese Desserts with a Shanghai Twist

Tanghulu (Candied Hawthorn)

A nostalgic street snack, tanghulu consists of skewered hawthorn berries coated in a shiny, hard sugar glaze. While it’s popular across China, Shanghai’s version often features a modern twist—think strawberries, grapes, or even kiwi dipped in caramelized sugar. You’ll find vendors selling these colorful treats in tourist hotspots like Yuyuan Garden, where the contrast of sweet and tart makes for a refreshing post-meal bite.

Shengjian Mantou (Pan-Fried Soup Dumplings with Sweet Fillings)

Shengjian mantou is typically known as a savory breakfast item, but some Shanghai eateries have reinvented it as a dessert. Stuffed with red bean paste, black sesame, or even custard, these crispy-bottomed buns offer a delightful mix of textures. Head to Yang’s Fry Dumpling for a unique sweet-and-savory experience.

Osmanthus Rice Cake (Guihua Gao)

This delicate, jelly-like dessert is infused with the floral aroma of osmanthus flowers and lightly sweetened with honey. Often served chilled, it’s a refreshing way to cleanse the palate after a rich Shanghainese meal. Look for it in traditional tea houses or dessert shops around Tianzifang.

Modern and Fusion Desserts

Egg Tart from Lillian Bakery

Shanghai’s love for Portuguese egg tarts runs deep, and Lillian Bakery is one of the best places to try them. Their version features a flaky, buttery crust and a creamy, custard-like filling with a perfectly caramelized top. Pair it with a cup of local tea for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Mango Pomelo Sago (Yangzhi Ganlu)

A Hong Kong import that’s taken Shanghai by storm, this dessert combines fresh mango, pomelo, sago pearls, and coconut milk into a luscious, tropical treat. Hui Lau Shan, a famous chain, serves one of the best versions in the city—ideal for cooling down after spicy Szechuan cuisine.

Matcha Tiramisu at % Arabica

For a fusion dessert that blends East and West, try the matcha tiramisu at % Arabica, a trendy café in the French Concession. Layers of matcha-infused mascarpone and sponge cake create a bittersweet, earthy flavor that’s both sophisticated and Instagram-worthy.

Where to Find the Best Dessert Spots

French Concession: A Hub for Sweet Innovations

This historic district is home to chic patisseries, artisanal gelato shops, and avant-garde dessert bars. Don’t miss:
- Chikalicious: A New York import serving exquisite plated desserts.
- Gelato Dal Cuore: Craft gelato with flavors like lychee rose and sesame.

Nanjing Road: Traditional Meets Trendy

From century-old bakeries to bubble tea chains, Nanjing Road offers a mix of old and new. Stop by:
- Shanghai First Food Hall: For classic pastries like mooncakes and walnut cookies.
- Heytea: For viral drinks like cheese tea and brown sugar boba.

Xintiandi: Upscale Indulgence

This stylish district is perfect for those seeking high-end desserts. Try:
- Lady M: Famous for their mille crêpes.
- Le Petit Paris: For authentic French macarons and éclairs.

No trip to Shanghai is complete without diving into its dessert scene. Whether you prefer time-honored sweets or contemporary creations, the city’s sugary offerings are sure to leave a lasting impression.