Dessert Dumplings 101: Introducing Deliciousness

Yes, you’re reading that right—we’ve developed some decadent, chef-approved chocolate black sesame dumplings that are the perfect way to cap off dim sum or a night on the town. Here’s a bit more about these dessert dumplings, including what inspired them and how we paired up with Chef Dominique Ansel to bring this mouthwatering creation to life!

What Makes It a Chinese Dessert Dumpling, Anyway?

Just like there are tons of different types of savory dumplings, there are also sweet dumplings and bao that people can enjoy, whether it’s at dim sum or after binge-watching a particularly emotional show from your favorite streaming service. They’re made similarly to the dumplings you get from your favorite dim sum shop but with a unique twist on the classic fillings and flavors.

The Fillings That Define Them

Black sesame is finally having its turn in the spotlight within dessert dumplings! While this filling has been a classic in China for centuries as a sweet finish or snack, it’s been picking up steam as more people learn about how good it is as a filling for dumplings and dessert bao.

However, while black sesame and chocolate are taking center stage with this new Chinese-style dessert dumplings, they’re far from the only dessert filling out there. Some chefs keep it classic with red beans or lotus paste, while others have experimented with flavors like custard, taro, ube, or fruity fillings.

Notice how there’s a common thread with all of these dessert dumplings—instead, they’re looking for something rich and decadent to cap off the meal.

The Flavor Within

You might think a dessert dumpling would be a one-note experience, but that’s not the case here. Black sesame has a rich, nutty flavor that reminds some people of peanut butter. Paired with the equally rich sweetness of chocolate, they’re a match made in dessert heaven!

It all comes together to make a dish that has a sophisticated sweetness that has enough depth to leave your palate curious but satisfied. It’s the perfect way to end a dumpling-themed meal—or a way to get something different. Plus, if you want to dial the decadence up to 11, they pair perfectly with 

A Super-Short History of Dessert Dumplings

China might not seem like it has many dessert-heavy cultures—and in some ways, that’s true. However, no culture is exempt from having a sweet tooth. 

Tang yuan (团圆) is a prime example of that. These glutinous rice dumplings are filled with peanuts, red bean paste, lotus seed paste, or sugar and are typically served in a delicately flavored soup or syrup. This dish has over 2,000 years of history behind it and has continued to evolve as people have developed tastes for custard, matcha, and chocolate.

It might seem like we’re deviating completely from tradition with our Asian dessert dumplings, but that’s just not true. We were also inspired by the classic chocolate lava cake and the nostalgic flavor of zhi ma hu (芝麻糊), a sweet black sesame soup, that captures our childhood and spending time with our grandma during the holidays.

So, what do we do when we see two dishes that we love? Naturally, we team up with our friend Chef Dominique Ansel—the mastermind behind the Cronut®—to create our first-ever dessert dumpling using the two iconic flavors.

Get Your Asian Dessert Fix with Our Friend Chef Dominique Ansel

If you’ve been keeping up with us for a bit, you know that we love good fusion food.

As a James Beard Award-winning pastry chef, Chef Dominique Ansel agreed to team up with us to launch our very first dessert dumpling. He captured the heart of MìLà’s culinary heritage with a playful twist through our chocolate black sesame lava dumpling—it’s indulgent, innovative, and only available for a limited time!

These black sesame and chocolate dumplings are perfect for when you’re craving something sweet without wanting something cloying. Chef Dominique’s combination of chocolate and black sesame provides a contrast that marries two different cultures into one magnificent flavor journey that you’ll want to take over and over. Your parents and anyone else coming over won’t be able to get enough when you bring them out for dessert!

Stock Your Freezer with Dinner AND Dessert Today

Once our chocolate black sesame lava dumplings are gone, they’re gone! Order your dessert dumplings today and get one step closer to the all-dumpling feast of your dreams from the comfort of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is This a Soup Dumpling?

Technically, but not quite. While traditional soup dumplings usually have meat and gelatinized broth in the center, we used liquid chocolate and black sesame for a dessert that marries dumplings with the classic lava cake. It has the same shape as its savory counterparts and a similar cooking process, but it’s the perfect way to end a multi-course dumpling feast.

How Should I Eat My Dessert Dumplings?

You might want to have a spoon handy for this one to catch the molten black sesame and chocolate center. Enjoy them on their own or à la mode with a scoop of ice cream and some fresh whipped cream if you’re feeling really decadent!