Tianjin, a bustling metropolis in northern China, is often celebrated for its rich history, European-style architecture, and vibrant street food scene. But beyond the savory delights like goubuli baozi or jianbing, the city hides a treasure trove of sugary wonders waiting to be discovered. For travelers with a sweet tooth, Tianjin’s desserts offer a delightful journey through tradition, innovation, and cultural fusion.
No visit to Tianjin is complete without trying mahua, a crispy, deep-fried dough twist coated in sugar or honey. This iconic snack dates back centuries and remains a staple in local tea houses. The best mahua boasts a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness, often paired with a cup of jasmine tea. Head to Guifaxiang, a century-old brand, for an authentic taste.
While tanghulu isn’t exclusive to Tianjin, the city’s version stands out with its glossy sugar shell and juicy hawthorn berries. Street vendors near Ancient Culture Street skewer the fruit on bamboo sticks, dip them in molten sugar, and let them harden into a shiny, crackly treat. It’s a nostalgic bite of childhood for locals and a photogenic must-try for visitors.
Named after the tiny alley (Erduoyan Hutong) where it was first sold, this dessert features glutinous rice cakes fried to a golden crisp and dusted with sugar. The contrast between the chewy interior and crunchy exterior is pure magic. Locals swear by the original shop near the Drum Tower, where queues form daily.
Tianjin’s Portuguese-style egg tarts, influenced by Macau’s pastéis de nata, have a loyal following. Bakeries like Aijiawu put a local spin on the classic by adding red bean paste or matcha. The flaky crust and custardy center make these tarts a perfect pick-me-up while exploring Five Great Avenues.
Younger dessert spots in Tianjin are blending traditional mochi with modern flavors. Try the black sesame or taro mochi ice cream at Sweet Monster, where chewy rice dough wraps around creamy, artisanal ice cream. It’s a refreshing break during summer strolls along Haihe River.
Bubble waffles, a Hong Kong import, have taken Tianjin by storm. Vendors near Nanshi Food Street serve them piping hot, filled with Nutella, fresh fruit, or even lao bing (a savory Tianjin crepe) for a sweet-and-salty twist. Don’t miss the Instagram-worthy “egglet” sandwiches stuffed with ice cream!
This tourist hotspot isn’t just for souvenirs—it’s a hub for sugar painting (tangren). Watch artisans craft delicate edible sculptures from molten sugar, turning dragons, phoenixes, or even your zodiac sign into a tasty work of art.
Tianjin’s Italian Style Street, a relic of the colonial era, now houses charming gelato shops. Vivoli Gelato offers flavors like yuzu and five-spice chocolate, blending Italian techniques with Chinese ingredients. Sit under the arched colonnades and pretend you’re in Rome—with a Tianjin twist.
When the sun sets, Tianjin’s night markets come alive with dessert stalls. At Shifeng Night Market, try bingfen (a jelly-like dessert with fruit syrup) or lüdagunr (sweet glutinous rice rolls coated in soybean flour). The lively atmosphere makes it a must for nocturnal foodies.
Tianjin’s desserts are more than just sugar—they’re a window into the city’s soul, where old-world charm meets modern creativity. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone with a relentless sweet tooth, this sugary travel journey promises unforgettable flavors at every turn.
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Author: Tianjin Travel
Link: https://tianjintravel.github.io/travel-blog/tianjins-desserts-a-sugary-travel-journey-1102.htm
Source: Tianjin Travel
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