Introduction to Asian Desserts
Asian desserts have become increasingly popular, with many considering them an "adult acquired taste." This concept is supported by a twentysomething acquaintance who enjoys Asian desserts because they don’t feel like they’re immediately going to give you cavities, comparing the taste of red bean to coffee.
Childhood Memories of Asian Treats
The author recalls their Japanese grandmother sending homemade Japanese treats, including red bean-stuffed buns, when they were a child. Although these treats were not something the author yearned for at the time, they have now become a staple in the world of Asian desserts.
The Rise of Asian Desserts on Social Media
On social media, an array of Eastern desserts can be seen, including mochi in all the colors of the rainbow, cute animal-shaped dessert buns, and red bean-filled taiyaki. This eye-popping display has contributed to the growing interest in Asian desserts.
By Sono Motoyama, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
PITTSBURGH — My Japanese grandmother lived on the opposite coast when I was little. I only met her a couple times, but she would annually send a box of homemade Japanese treats, including red bean-stuffed buns.
As a kid growing up in a New York suburb, these were not exactly something I yearned for. I probably — no, definitely — would have been happier if she sent us Twinkies and Hostess Cakes.
Apparently now, though, Japanese red bean is having a moment, along with other Asian desserts.
A twentysomething acquaintance said he enjoyed Asian desserts because they don’t “feel like they’re immediately going to give you cavities.” Though he admitted that red bean was an “adult acquired taste, like coffee.”
On social media you can see an eye-popping array of Eastern desserts, including mochi in all the colors of the rainbow, the cutest little animal-shaped dessert buns and yes, red bean-filled taiyaki.
Show Caption
1 of 3
Mango Mango in Squirrel Hill, Forbes Ave. (Sono Motoyama/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette/TNS)
Expand
## A Hot Concept in the Dessert World
Trend trackers Carbonate Insights has proclaimed that “Asian dessert cafés are one of the hottest concepts of 2025.” This is evident in the growth of chains such as Paris Baguette, 85°C Bakery Cafe, and French-Asian bakery Tous les Jours.
### The Gateway to Asian Desserts
The gateway to this interest in Asian desserts is bubble tea, which has incited curiosity in other Asian desserts and snacks. Social media has multiplied this curiosity among millennials and Gen Z.
### Late-Night Dessert Cafes
Another draw is that many dessert cafes are open late, offering non-alcohol-based but high-design social hangouts. On a recent evening, the photo-ready interiors of New York-based chain Mango Mango and Japanese chain Kyo Matcha were buzzing with a young crowd.
## Substance Over Style
While welcoming these sleek newcomers, it’s essential not to forget the previous generation that paved the way. Sumi Chun, who emigrated from Seoul, Korea, runs Sumi’s Cakery in the Strip District, touting her strawberry layer cake, green tea cake, and mocha cake. She learned how to bake from the internet and takes pride in making everything in-house.
### Traditional Bakeries
Pink Box Bakery, in Squirrel Hill, opened around the same time as Sumi’s Cakery and is currently run by Hong Yang, a Taiwanese immigrant. The bakery carries a wide variety of sweet and savory buns, taro bread, and colorful mochi cakes, with Yang taking pride in using the best ingredients and preferring substance over style.
## Conclusion
The rise of Asian desserts is a phenomenon that has taken the world by storm. With their unique flavors and Instagram-worthy presentation, it’s no wonder why they have become an “adult acquired taste.” As the dessert world continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how these traditional and modern bakeries continue to innovate and adapt to changing tastes.
## FAQs
Q: What has contributed to the growing interest in Asian desserts?
A: The growing interest in Asian desserts can be attributed to social media, bubble tea, and the unique flavors and presentation of these desserts.
Q: What is the difference between traditional and modern Asian dessert cafes?
A: Traditional Asian dessert cafes focus on substance over style, using high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes, while modern cafes prioritize presentation and Instagram-worthy moments.
Q: Why are Asian desserts considered an “adult acquired taste”?
A: Asian desserts are considered an “adult acquired taste” because they often have unique and subtle flavors that may not appeal to children, but are appreciated by adults who have acquired a taste for them.
