Sweet-tooths, rejoice! Taro may be a starchy root that’s often overlooked in favor of more glamorous ingredients, but when it comes to desserts, this humble tuber really shines. With its rich, nutty flavor and silky texture, taro is the perfect base for a wide range of creamy treats. From classic puddings and cakes to innovative twists like bubble tea and mochi balls, we’ve rounded up 20 of the creamiest taro dessert recipes out there.
In this article, we’ll dive into the wonderful world of taro desserts, exploring everything from nostalgic childhood favorites to exotic international treats. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new ingredient to play with, these sweet and satisfying recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Taro Coconut Pudding
A creamy and delicious dessert that combines the natural sweetness of taro with the richness of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together taro puree, sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, kosher salt, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually pour the cream mixture into the taro mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Note: You can serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Taro Mochi Balls
A traditional Japanese treat, Taro Mochi Balls are soft and chewy on the outside, with a sweet and nutty filling inside. These bite-sized treats make for a delightful snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup taro paste (or mashed cooked taro)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Flatten each ball slightly and place a spoonful of taro paste in the center.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a ball shape, making sure the edges are sealed.
6. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the mochi balls for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil with paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Taro Bubble Tea
A refreshing twist on traditional bubble tea, this recipe combines the creamy flavor of taro with chewy boba and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup taro powder (or 2-3 large taro roots, cooked and mashed)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup tapioca pearls (boba)
– 1/2 cup milk or creamer (optional)
– Ice cubes
– Flavorings (such as vanilla or honey) to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine water, taro powder (or cooked and mashed taro), and sugar in a large pitcher. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the taro flavor has been fully absorbed.
3. Add tapioca pearls (boba) to the pitcher and stir gently to distribute evenly.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve cold, with milk or creamer added if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taro Cheesecake
Discover a unique fusion of creamy cheesecake and the subtle sweetness of taro root, a popular ingredient in many Asian desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup taro puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the crust: Mix crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter; stir until combined.
3. Press the crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
5. Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by taro puree and vanilla extract.
6. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan over the crust.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Taro Ice Cream
Taro Ice Cream Recipe
Discover the unique flavor of taro ice cream, a popular treat in many Asian cultures. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of taro with creamy coconut milk and a touch of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree (or 2-3 large taro roots, cooked and mashed)
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the taro puree, sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Open the can of coconut milk and scoop out the thick cream that has risen to the top. Reserve the remaining liquid for another use.
3. Add the vanilla extract to the taro mixture and stir to combine.
4. Fold in the coconut cream until smooth and creamy.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on your ice cream maker)
Note: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can also freeze the mixture in a shallow metal pan and then blend it in a food processor once it’s frozen solid. This will give you a slightly chunkier texture, similar to gelato.
Taro Mousse Cake
A classic dessert gets a modern twist with the addition of taro, adding an exotic flavor and vibrant green color to this light and airy mousse cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup taro puree
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, butter, taro puree, and egg whites. Whip until smooth.
4. Fold whipped cream into the taro mixture until well combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taro Sticky Rice Dessert
Taro Sticky Rice Dessert Recipe
Summary: This traditional Chinese dessert is a sweet and sticky treat made with glutinous rice, taro, and coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of glutinous rice
– 1 cup of water
– 1/2 cup of taro, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 piece of pandan leaf (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and wash the rice thoroughly, then combine it with taro, sugar, coconut milk, and salt in a large pot.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and sticky.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vegetable oil and pandan leaf (if using).
6. Let it cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taro Tapioca Pudding
Taro Tapioca Pudding Recipe
A creamy and comforting dessert that combines the natural sweetness of taro with the unique texture of tapioca pearls.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups taro puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup tapioca pearls, soaked overnight and rinsed
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine taro puree, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the sugar dissolves (about 10 minutes).
2. Add the tapioca pearls to the saucepan and stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Taro Panna Cotta
Discover the creamy delight of Taro Panna Cotta, a unique and refreshing dessert that combines the nutty flavor of taro with the smoothness of panna cotta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine taro puree, heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Taro Swiss Roll
Experience the creamy sweetness of taro combined with the classic elegance of a Swiss roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup taro puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
4. In another bowl, beat butter and taro puree until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the egg whites, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taro Macarons
A twist on the classic French macaron, these Taro Macarons incorporate the vibrant flavor and color of taro root into a delicate and chewy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup taro puree
– Food coloring (green)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Gradually add granulated sugar and taro puree; continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Add food coloring to tint the mixture green.
5. Fold the sifted flour mixture into the egg mixture until well combined.
6. Spoon batter onto prepared baking sheet in small, round circles.
7. Tap baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles.
8. Allow macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.
10. Allow to cool completely before filling with buttercream or ganache.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taro Custard Tart
Taro Custard Tart Recipe
Discover the rich flavors of Hawaii with this unique Taro Custard Tart recipe! This sweet treat combines the natural sweetness of taro root with a creamy custard filling, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup taro root puree
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together taro puree, sugar, melted butter, eggs, heavy cream, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the custard mixture into the pie crust.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Taro Chiffon Cake
This light and airy cake recipe combines the natural sweetness of taro with the fluffiness of chiffon, perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup taro puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, taro puree, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Gradually pour dry ingredients into egg mixture, gently folding until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cake is golden brown and springs back when touched.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Taro Donuts
Experience the unique flavor of taro in these sweet and fluffy donuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together taro puree, milk, and eggs.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth batter forms.
5. Use a piping bag or a spoon to drop the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry the donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the donuts from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Taro Pancakes
Taro Pancakes Recipe
Discover the exotic flavor of taro pancakes, a delicious twist on traditional pancakes. These sweet and savory treats are made with the vibrant purple yam from the taro plant, adding a unique sweetness and nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together taro puree, sugar, and eggs until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Add milk and stir until batter is smooth.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil if necessary.
6. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes per batch
Serve warm with your favorite toppings or enjoy as a snack!
Taro Crepes
Experience the unique flavor of taro in a delicate crepe. This recipe combines the sweetness of taro with the crispness of a traditional French crepe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine taro puree, flour, eggs, milk, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour a small amount of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the surface.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Loosen with a spatula and flip.
7. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
8. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on crepe thickness)
Taro Bread Pudding
A twist on traditional bread pudding, this recipe combines the creamy richness of taro with sweet, caramelized bread and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups taro puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes and taro puree.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour the dry mixture over the bread mixture; toss until bread is evenly coated.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and heavy cream until smooth.
6. Add egg mixture to bread mixture; toss until bread is well coated.
7. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Taro Tiramisu
A creative twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Taro Tiramisu combines the unique flavor of taro with the richness of mascarpone cream.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Heavy cream, whipped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together taro puree and granulated sugar until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whip egg yolks until thick and creamy.
3. Add softened butter to the egg yolks and whip until smooth.
4. Fold in mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Dip ladyfingers into taro mixture for 3-5 seconds on each side.
6. In a large serving dish, create a layer of ladyfingers. Top with half of the mascarpone cream mixture.
7. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of mascarpone cream.
8. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
9. Whip heavy cream and top tiramisu (optional).
Cooking Time: None
Taro Chocolate Truffles
Savor the unique flavor combination of taro and dark chocolate in these rich, bite-sized truffles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine taro puree, butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the mixture to firm up.
4. Roll the chilled mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Dip each taro ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
7. Place truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (includes chilling time)
Taro Mille Crepe Cake
A classic French dessert gets a tropical twist with this Taro Mille Crepe Cake recipe. Delicate crepes filled with sweet taro cream and topped with caramelized sugar make for a truly decadent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together taro puree, heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the melted butter and whisk until well combined.
4. Cook the crepe batter in a small non-stick pan over medium heat, tilting to spread evenly.
5. Fill cooked crepes with taro cream and top with caramelized sugar (see note).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the creamy delights of taro desserts! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the unique flavor and texture of taro with sweet treats. From classic cheesecakes and mousses to innovative desserts like bubble tea and chocolate truffles, these recipes showcase the versatility of taro in both traditional and modern desserts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for new ideas, this collection is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and inspire your next baking adventure.
