DB9. Vietnamese Snowball Cake (10 pieces)

Bánh Bao Chỉ, lovingly called “Snowball Cake,” is a delightful Vietnamese dessert with Chinese roots that brings back sweet childhood memories for many. These charming, snow-white treats feature a soft, chewy outer layer made from glutinous rice flour (bột nếp), giving them a mochi-like texture that is bouncy yet melts tenderly in the mouth. Each Bánh Bao Chỉ hides a sweet, fragrant filling — traditionally a smooth paste of yellow mung beans cooked with sugar and coconut, or variations featuring shredded coconut, roasted peanuts, black sesame, or pandan-scented goodness. The delicate dough is carefully wrapped around the filling, shaped into small, round balls, and generously rolled in a thick layer of desiccated coconut. This final coating creates the signature “snowball” look — fluffy, white, and irresistibly inviting. When you take a bite, the contrast is magical: the fragrant, slightly sweet coconut exterior gives way to the soft, sticky rice dough and the rich, creamy filling inside. The natural chewiness of the glutinous rice pairs beautifully with the subtle sweetness and nutty or coconutty flavors of the center. Some modern versions add pandan leaf for a gentle floral aroma or even creative fillings like matcha, taro, or durian. Bánh Bao Chỉ is a light, not-too-sweet treat perfect as an afternoon snack, party dessert, or sweet ending to a meal. It is commonly sold at street stalls, traditional markets, and bakeries across Vietnam, especially popular among the Hoa (Chinese-Vietnamese) community. Its simple yet refined character makes it a beloved comfort food — nostalgic, portable, and impossible to eat just one. With its snowy appearance and delightful chew, Bánh Bao Chỉ is more than just a dessert — it is a small, joyful bite of Vietnamese-Chinese culinary heritage. Ingredients: glutinous rice flour, shredded coconut, roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, sugar, and coconut flakes.