Indonesia’s culinary heritage is incredibly rich, and nowhere is it more deliciously showcased than on the island of Bali. From colorful iced treats to fragrant baked delights, Indonesian desserts are an essential part of the country’s food culture. As you explore Bali’s beaches, temples, and bustling night markets, don’t miss the chance to indulge in these traditional sweets — each one offering a taste of Indonesia’s vibrant diversity.
Refreshing Iced Desserts
With its tropical climate, Bali can get hot and humid year-round — which makes cold desserts a refreshing way to beat the heat. Indonesians have perfected the art of iced sweets, combining tropical fruits, creamy coconut milk, and palm sugar into irresistible creations.
Es Pisang Hijau
Originating from Makassar in South Sulawesi, Es Pisang Hijau (iced green banana) has found fans all across Indonesia, including Bali. It features steamed bananas wrapped in green pandan-flavored rice flour, served over shaved ice with coconut milk and syrup. This dessert is both creamy and refreshing — the perfect afternoon treat after exploring Bali’s sunny streets.
Es Campur
Literally translating to mixed ice, Es Campur is a colorful combination of fruits and jellies served over crushed ice with condensed milk and sweet syrup. You’ll find it in every corner of the island, each with its own regional twist — sometimes featuring jackfruit, avocado, or fermented cassava. It’s one of the most popular iced desserts in Indonesia and a true tropical indulgence.
Cendol
Endemic of south east Asia, Cendol is a sweet, creamy dessert-drink made with green rice-flour jelly noodles, coconut milk, and smoky palm sugar syrup. On a hot Bali afternoon, nothing beats sipping a glass of icy Cendol by the beach or at a traditional café. It’s both energizing and deeply satisfying.
Beloved Baked and Warm Treats
Kue Lapis
Kue Lapis, or Indonesian layer cake, is a stunning dessert made from colorful layers of rice flour batter steamed or baked to perfection. Each bite is soft, chewy, and infused with coconut milk and pandan. Though it originates from Java, it’s widely enjoyed in Bali and often sold at traditional markets (pasar tradisional) or served during festive occasions.
Terang Bulan
Known locally as Martabak Manis, Terang Bulan is Indonesia’s version of a thick, fluffy pancake — and it’s as indulgent as it gets. Each one is smothered with generous layers of margarine and sweetened condensed milk before being packed with toppings of your choice: Nutella, chocolate flakes, bananas, crushed peanuts, and more. It’s definitely a calorie-heavy treat, but that’s part of its charm. You’ll find Terang Bulan stands all over Bali’s night markets — the scent of melted butter and sugar is impossible to resist. Grab one fresh off the pan and enjoy it while it’s still warm and gooey.
More Sweet Bites You Shouldn’t Miss in Bali
Beyond the iced and baked desserts, there are plenty of smaller traditional sweets to try in Bali that showcase Indonesia’s love of coconut, rice, and palm sugar.
Klepon
Klepon are bite-sized green rice balls filled with melted palm sugar and rolled in grated coconut. They’re soft, chewy, and burst with sweetness the moment you bite in. Often sold as part of jajan pasar (traditional market snacks), Klepon are a favorite across Indonesia and a must-try for any sweet lover visiting Bali.
Pisang Goreng
Simple yet irresistible, Pisang Goreng (fried banana) is one of Indonesia’s most beloved snacks. You’ll find countless variations around Bali — from crispy street versions to gourmet takes topped with chocolate, cheese, or ice cream. Whether as a quick snack or a sweet breakfast bite, Pisang Goreng perfectly captures the warmth and comfort of Indonesian home cooking.
Final Thoughts
Bali is a paradise not only for its landscapes and culture but also for its desserts. From icy delights like Es Campur and Cendol to sweet bites like Klepon and Pisang Goreng, every treat tells a story of Indonesia’s regions and traditions. So next time you’re traveling through Bali, take a moment to explore the island’s dessert scene - your taste buds will thank you.
And stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive into some of Bali’s lesser-known but equally delicious sweets — hidden gems that deserve just as much love as the classics.
