When it comes to frozen treats, ice cream is often the go-to indulgence. But across the globe, there’s a whole world of frozen desserts that are just as delicious, and often quite different from the familiar scoops of ice cream. From creamy to icy, fruity to nutty, these frozen delights bring unique flavors, textures, and cultural experiences to the table. Whether you’re traveling the world or just looking to mix things up, here’s a look at some frozen desserts beyond ice cream that are worth trying.
Kulfi [India]
Kulfi is a traditional Indian frozen dessert made by slowly simmering sweetened milk until thick, then freezing it in molds. Unlike churned ice cream, Kulfi is denser and creamier, often flavored with cardamom, saffron, mango, or pistachio. Served on a stick or in small cups, it’s frequently topped with chopped nuts for extra texture. This slow-made treat offers a rich and satisfying experience, especially in the summer heat.
Sorbet [France]
Sorbet is a dairy-free frozen dessert made from fruit purée, water, and sugar. In France, it’s often served between courses or as a refreshing finish to a meal. Classic flavors include lemon, raspberry, and blackcurrant, but sorbet can also become more indulgent when paired with champagne or vodka, as in a coupe colonel. Its light, icy texture and fresh fruit flavors make it ideal for hot days or refined occasions.
Granita [Italy]
Originating in Sicily, Granita is made by freezing a mixture of sugar, water, and flavors — like lemon, coffee, or almond — while scraping it periodically to achieve a grainy, icy texture. Often enjoyed at breakfast with a brioche bun, it’s less smooth than sorbet but just as refreshing. Granita’s simplicity and bright, bold flavors make it a beloved summer staple in Southern Italy.
Dondurma [Turkey]
Dondurma, Turkish ice cream, is famous for its stretchy, chewy texture, thanks to salep (wild orchid root flour) and mastic resin. Vendors often serve it with flair, playfully testing your patience with acrobatic tricks before handing it over. With flavors like pistachio, vanilla, and rose, Dondurma stands out for both its texture and theatrical experience.
Baobing [Taiwan]
Baobing is Taiwan’s take on shaved ice, using fine, fluffy flakes piled high and topped with ingredients like red beans, taro balls, condensed milk, fresh fruit, and boba pearls. The mix of creamy, chewy, and fruity textures creates a fun, build-your-own dessert that’s endlessly customizable. It’s a staple in Taiwanese night markets and perfect for cooling off in humid weather.
Açaí Bowl [Brazil]
Originating from Brazil’s Amazon region, the açaí bowl blends frozen açaí berries with banana or other fruits into a thick, smooth base. It’s typically topped with granola, sliced fruit, coconut flakes, or honey. Though often seen as a breakfast or health snack, its icy, fruity freshness and superfood appeal make it a deliciously guilt-free frozen treat.
Bingsu [South Korea]
Bingsu is a Korean shaved ice dessert made with ultra-fine, milk-infused ice, offering a snow-like consistency. Toppings range from sweet red beans and mochi to fruit, cereal, and cheesecake. Modern cafés serve elaborate variations, making Bingsu a trendy and customizable favorite, as photogenic as it is delicious.
[Contributed By Anushka Gaikwad]