Last Updated on December 13, 2024 by Jade and Deeshen

Wondering what Taiwan food souvenirs to bring home? Whether you’re a foodie or want to bring home snacks for your friends and family, Taiwan has something special for you!

The island is bursting with delicious snacks and innovative savory treats that make for the perfect gifts. We always have a stash of Taiwanese snacks and tea in our kitchen.

When it comes to best food souvenirs, a few things truly stands out. At Taipei night markets, Taiwan snacks such as bubble tea-flavored gummies, biscuits, nougats, and savory dried snacks are the
hottest buys., where you’ll find a variety of Taiwan snacks like bubble tea-flavored gummies, biscuits, pineapple cakes, and savory dried beancurd.

At Jiufen Old Street and other old streets, packaged cakes, pastries, oolong tea, and nuts are the most popular.

For something a bit more traditional, you can’t go wrong with Taiwan’s famous oolong tea. You’ll find high-quality tea leaves at local tea shops or markets, or Tea plantations like Pinglin and Alishan, which make for an elegant and thoughtful gift.

Pair it with a beautifully crafted teapot set, often made from Taiwan’s distinctive Yixing clay, and you’ll have a gift that’s both functional and beautiful.

Another popular Taiwan food souvenir is Taiwan’s famous pineapple cake (but we love the taro pastries even more!). These buttery, sweet cakes filled with pineapple filling are a must-try, and you can easily find them packaged in beautiful boxes at markets or Taipei airport.

For a more savory optionz, consider bringing home some fragrant Taiwanese taro pastries, sun cakes or hundreds of biscuit options, nuts or dried fruits – all perfect for nibbling.

No matter what you choose, Taiwan’s food souvenirs will offer a slice of the island’s rich flavors to take home!

As Taiwan travel experts, we’ll share the best Taiwan food souvenirs, along with details on where to find them and who will love them.

Planning a trip to Taiwan? Readers love our guide on the BEST Taiwan itinerary for 10 days.

Readers also love our guides on cycling the Sun Moon Lake bike route, and where to stay in Sun Moon Lake.

Taiwan Best Food Souvenirs

If you’re wondering what to buy from Taipei and Taiwan, here are the best food souvenirs from Taiwan to buy for your friends back home!

Taiwanese Pineapple Cake

One of the most famous snacks to bring home from Taiwan is the pineapple cake. These small, square pastries have a buttery crust and are filled with sweet and tangy pineapple jam.

Pineapple cakes have deep cultural roots in Taiwan. In Taiwanese, the word for pineapple, ong lai (旺來), sounds like “prosperity comes,” making these treats a symbol of good luck and success.

They were traditionally given as gifts during celebrations and festivals, and over time, they became a popular souvenir that represents Taiwan’s hospitality and rich culinary tradition.

You can even make your own pineapple cakes with this family friendly tour in Taipei!

Great souvenirs for: Families, friends, coworkers, food lovers, and anyone with a sweet tooth.

Where to buy: You can find pineapple cakes in bakeries, gift shops, and souvenir stores all over Taiwan. Famous places include Chia Te Bakery in Taipei and Sunny Hills in Taichung. They’re usually sold in pretty gift boxes, making them a thoughtful souvenir or gift.

⭐Best deal for ChiaTe Bakery Pineapple Pastry w/ Free Delivery to Hotel or Airport Pickup – We LOVE using this option when we don’t want to lug souvenirs around wait in line at the famous ChiaTe Bakery.

If you love shopping, also check out our 30+ best apps for Taiwan, which includes the best Taiwan shopping apps too!

Taiwanese Sun Cakes

Another Taiwan best selling product to bring home is the Sun Cake, known as tai yang bing. These light, flaky pastries are filled with a sweet malt sugar filling and have a delicate, crispy texture that melts in your mouth!

Sun cakes are a symbol of Taichung, where they originated. The name “sun cake” comes from their round shape, resembling the sun.

Traditionally, these treats were made to celebrate the harvest season and have been a part of Taiwanese culture for over a century. Today, these delicacies are a favorite souvenir, representing the warmth and hospitality of Taiwan.

Great souvenirs for: Families, friends, coworkers, food lovers, and anyone who enjoys sweet, light pastries.

Where to buy: Sun cakes are widely available in local bakeries, pastry shops, and souvenir stores throughout Taiwan, particularly in cities like Taichung and Tainan.

If you visit Taichung, remember to go biking around Sun Moon Lake and check out our other best things to do in Taiwan!

Some of our favorite shops include: Ruyi Sunny Cake (如邑堂餅家) in Taipei, Chia Te Bakery (佳德糕餅) in Taipei, Yu Jan Shin (裕珍馨) in Taipei and Taichung., Sugar and Spice locations here all over Taiwan, Tai Yang Tang Lao Dian (太陽堂老店) locations here all over Taiwan, Ah Ming Shi Sun Cake Shop (阿明師太陽餅店) locations in Taichung here.

Taiwanese Sweet Castella Honey Cake

Taiwanese Sweet Castella Honey Cake is loved for its light, airy texture and rich honey flavor.

Honey cake was my absolute favorite comfort food growing up. I love how spongy and airy it is, and it’s so satisfying to eat!

This soft, honey-infused cake is a Taiwanese version of the classic Japanese castella. It’s made with simple ingredients like eggs, flour, sugar, and honey, which create a spongy and moist treat that melts in your mouth.

Great for: Cake lovers, families, friends, co-workers, or anyone who wants a sweet but not overly sugary snack.

Where to buy: You can find this cake in many bakeries, local markets, and souvenir shops across Taiwan. Popular brands like Kuo Yuan Ye, Café de Monde, and WAGASHI are known for their delicious honey cakes in flavors like Chinese tea, pineapple and classic.

Taiwanese Nougat

If you’re in the mood for something sweet and unique to bring back from Taiwan, Taiwanese nougat is a great choice.

While nougat isn’t exclusive to Taiwan, the local version is quite different from the ones you’ll find in other countries.

With over 30 flavors to choose from, Taiwanese nougat offers a variety of textures, from chewy to crunchy, and is generally less sweet than the versions from the United States or Europe.

Taiwanese nougat is known for its wide range of flavors, which can include everything from traditional honey and peanut to more adventurous options like matcha, chocolate, and even durian.

Great for: Sweet treat lovers, those looking for a unique gift, and anyone who enjoys trying new flavors.

Where to buy: Taiwanese nougat can be found in specialty candy shops, supermarkets, and souvenir stores throughout Taiwan.

Popular brands like Chia Te and Sunny Hills offer beautifully packaged nougat that makes for a great gift.

You can also find nougat in many night markets, where y

Taiwanese Instant Noodles (Ramen)

If you’re looking for a fun snack souvenir to bring home from Taiwan, Taiwanese instant noodles are a instant hit!

Taiwanese people take their instant noodles very seriously, and you’ll find a whole aisle dedicated to noodles and ramen in nearly every 7-11 across the island.

Many of these instant noodles are exclusive to Taiwan, making them a unique comfort food to share a taste of Taiwan with friends and family.

Taiwanese instant noodles come in a wide range of flavors, often with rich broths and unique seasonings that you can’t find anywhere else.

Top 10 Taiwanese Instant Noodles (according to Apple Daily)

1. Wei Lih Spicy Beef Noodles – Known for its rich beef broth and spicy kick.
   
2. Uni-President Noodles (Beef Soup Flavor) – A Taiwanese classic with a savory beef broth.
   
3. Topokki Instant Noodles – A fusion of spicy Korean-style rice cakes and noodles.
   
4. A-Sha Noodles (Taiwanese Dry Noodles) – Famous for its chewy texture and flavorful sauce.
   
5. I-Mei Braised Pork Noodles – Packed with a deliciously savory braised pork flavor.
   
6. Ching Wei Noodles (Hot and Sour Soup Flavor) – A perfect balance of spicy and tangy.
   
7. MyTaiwanShop Spicy Hot Pot Noodles – A favorite for those who love the spicy hot pot experience.
   
8. Vigor Kobo Tofu Noodles – A unique vegetarian noodle option with tofu and soy-based broth.
   
9. Yung Fa Instant Noodles (Pork Bone Soup Flavor) – Known for its creamy and rich pork bone broth.
   
10. Hsin Tung Yang Instant Noodles (Chicken Soup Flavor) – Offers a comforting chicken broth with hearty noodles.

Great for: Food lovers, friends, and anyone who enjoys savory, comforting meals, and those who want to bring home a taste of Taiwan’s food culture.

Where to buy: You can find these Taiwanese instant noodles in convenience stores like 7-11, local supermarkets, and specialty stores across Taiwan. For a wider selection, try visiting a store like City Super or Carrefour at any major city like Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taichung.

Taiwanese Peanut Nougats and Peanut Brittle

Taiwanese Peanut Nougats and Brittle 花生酥 are a must-try treat for anyone who loves a balance of nutty and sweet flavors.

We first discovered these while hiking up Keelung Mountain near Jiufen, while staying overnight in Jiufen, when a kind 72-year-old grandma gifted us a whole bag of them! (took us 6 months to finish them)

The combination of crunchy peanuts and chewy nougat was so delicious, we couldn’t stop eating them.

These nougats are made with high-quality peanuts and a mix of sugar, maltose, and sometimes milk, giving them a rich, creamy taste. The contrast between the roasted peanut crunch and the soft nougat texture makes it a truly satisfying snack.

Great for: Nut lovers, families, friends, co-workers, or anyone who enjoys a classic sweet snack with a hint of nuttiness.

Where to buy: You can find Taiwanese peanut nougats in bakeries, local markets, and souvenir shops. Popular brands like Sugar & Spice and Kuo Yuan Ye offer some of the best nougats, with flavors ranging from original peanut to more unique varieties like sesame or almond.

Taiwanese Peanut Nougats are a perfect gift or snack to bring home, showcasing Taiwan’s love for bold, simple, and satisfying flavors.

Taiwanese Q Cakes

Taiwanese Q Cakes are soft, chewy pastries filled with delicious flavors like red bean, taro, or pineapple.

We first tried them while walking through a local market in Taiwan. The vendor told us that “Q” is a Taiwanese word for “chewy,” and it perfectly describes the texture of these tasty treats. After just one bite, we were hooked!

The outer layer is a biscuit-like crust sprinkled with sesame seeds, adding a nutty aroma to the cake. But the real surprise is inside—each Q Cake is packed with 3-4 layers of unique fillings, such as dried shredded pork, salted egg yolk, red bean paste, and mochi. This mix of sweet, savory, and chewy textures creates an unforgettable flavor experience.

Great for: Pastry lovers, families, friends, or anyone who enjoys a fun and chewy snack.

Where to buy: Q Cakes are sold in bakeries, markets, and souvenir shops across Taiwan. Popular brands like Sunny Hills and Chia Te make some of the best ones, with flavors ranging from traditional pineapple to modern options like green tea and sesame.

Scallion Nougat Crackers

These biscuits are a delicious cracker with a chive and onion flavor, and they have a savory, chewy cream interior that complements the crispy exterior perfectly. While Chia Te Onion Nougat Biscuits are the most famous, there are smaller, local brands that offer equally tasty versions.

We first discovered Chive Biscuits while staying overnight in Jiufen. I didn’t think much of it at first, but once we took a bite, we were totally surprised by how delicious and unique they were! It’s such a simple yet genius combination of flavors.

Great for: Snack lovers, friends, family, or anyone looking for a savory treat with a bit of a twist.

Where to buy: You can find these savory biscuits at Jiufen Old Street, where local vendors offer fresh, hot chive biscuits that are perfect for a quick snack while exploring the area.

Chive biscuits are a perfect way to taste a local favorite in Taiwan, and they make for a great savory snack to bring home!

Taiwan Taro Pastry at Jiufen Jiang Jia Bakery

Location: Jiufen Jia Jiang Bakery

Our personal favorite Taiwan food souvenirs to bring back is the Taro Pastry from Jiufen Old Street’s Jiang Jia Bakery! We usually always buy extra of this Taiwan snack souvenir for our selves, families, and friends!

Jiufen is our favorite place to eat, and we share the Top 13 Jiufen Must Eats (which is extra tasty after hiking the nearby Teapot Mountain in Taiwan)!

We highly recommend staying overnight in Jiufen for 3-4 days (which is our annual tradition). Here’s our guide to where to stay in Jiufen with all the best hotels and minsus in Jiufen.

Not to mention seeing Jiufen at Night a must on any Taiwan trip!

At Jiang Jia Bakery, the owner and pastry chef craft freshly baked, flaky Taro pastries and Pineapple cakes unfolds daily. A harmonious blend of textures and tastes that transports you to a realm where time-honored techniques meet the precision of contemporary craftsmanship.

Taiwanese Moon Cake

Moon cakes are one of Taiwan’s most beloved traditional treats, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival. We first tried them during a family gathering in Taipei, and their rich flavor and delicate texture immediately won us over.

Taiwanese moon cakes are typically filled with a variety of delicious ingredients like red bean paste, lotus seed paste, or salted egg yolk. Some even have modern flavors like taro or matcha. The flaky, buttery crust pairs perfectly with the sweet or savory fillings, creating a treat that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Great souvenir for: Families, friends, teachers, coworkers, or anyone who loves traditional pastries.

Where to buy: Moon cakes are available in bakeries, specialty stores, and markets throughout Taiwan. Well-known brands like Kuo Yuan Ye and Chia Te are famous for their high-quality moon cakes, especially around the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Taiwanese Mung Bean Cake (綠豆糕)

Mung Bean Cake is a classic Taiwanese snack that’s both sweet and comforting. We discovered it while exploring the streets of Taipei, and I was immediately drawn to its smooth, delicate texture and mild sweetness.

This soft cake is made from mung beans and sugar, resulting in a light, fragrant dessert. The subtle sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth consistency make it a perfect treat for anyone who enjoys a more refined, less sugary snack.

Great souvenir for: Parents, teachers, friends, or anyone looking for a sweet yet delicate Taiwanese treat.

Where to buy: You can find Mung Bean Cake in many bakeries, local markets, and souvenir shops across Taiwan. Popular brands like Hsin Tung Yang and Chia Te Bakery are well-known for offering high-quality mung bean cakes.

Mung Bean Cake is a wonderful way to experience a traditional Taiwanese snack that’s both delicious and comforting!

Other Taiwanese Snacks to Bring Home

There are hundreds of snacks to buy in Taiwan including cakes, pastries and nougats that are simply divine. Have a little fun, and taste samples to your heart’s content. Ask vendors for samples to try and buy your favorites! Other favorite Taiwan snacks to bring home are…

• Crispy Sesame Candy 芝麻糖: A delightful blend of crunchy sesame seeds and sweet caramelized sugar, offering a satisfyingly nutty and aromatic flavor.
  
• Black Charcoal Peanuts: Roasted peanuts coated in a layer of black charcoal seasoning, delivering a unique smoky flavor with a hint of earthy richness.
  
• Almond Cookies: Crumbly and buttery, almond cookies are a classic Taiwanese dessert often enjoyed with a cup of tea. They make for a delightful souvenir that captures the essence of Taiwanese baking.
  
• Lemon Cakes from Ifhouse in Taizhong: Zesty and refreshing, lemon cakes are a popular choice for those who enjoy citrusy flavors. Made with fresh lemon zest and juice, these cakes are a taste of Taiwan’s tropical fruit abundance. I love Ifhouse in Taizhong.

Loved by: Families, friends, colleagues, kids, couples, elders, those with a sweet tooth, foodies

Where to buy: While these treats can be found in bakeries and pastry shops across Taiwan, you’ll find some of the best selections in specialty shops in cities like Taipei, Taichung, Yilan, and Tainan.

If you’re traveling to Yilan or Tainan for shopping, check out my guide on what is a Minsu in Taiwan and how to book them.

Taiwan Mochi

Taiwanese mochi, known locally as “muah chee,” is a popular snack made from glutinous rice flour and filled with various sweet or savory fillings. These bite-sized delights are a must buy in Taiwan and are soft, chewy, and often coated with a dusting of powdered sugar or ground peanuts for added flavor.

Look for vendors who handcraft their mochi using traditional methods for the freshest and most authentic flavors. Some popular variations include red bean, peanut, and sesame fillings, each offering a unique taste experience.

Loved by: Food enthusiasts, families, friends

Where to buy: Mochi are delicious souvenirs from Taiwan and can be found in specialty shops, night markets, and street food stalls throughout Taiwan. For the freshest selection of Taiwan mochi, explore the bustling stalls of Taipei’s iconic Shilin Night Market, Raohe Night Market, specialty shops in Ximending, or visit traditional tea houses and specialty dessert shops scattered throughout Taiwan.

Our readers love staying at the best luxury hotels in Taipei, to get pampered before they shop!

Some favorites from Taipei include: Bulao Hakka Traditional Mochi, Sa bai tian, Shun Chen Bakery, and 米玥麻糬堂-台北大安店.

If you’re wondering how to carry everything back to your hotel and is there Uber in Taiwan?

The answer is yes! In my guide on Uber in Taiwan, we cover everything on how if its better than taking yellows taxis and examples fares from our trips.

Formosa Chang Braised Pork Lu Rou Fan

Thought you had to fly to Taiwan to eat Lu Rou Fan? Think again!

One of the most beloved comfort foods in Taiwan is Braised Pork over rice, also known as Lu Rou Fan. To my surprise, there’s an instant version that brings the authentic taste of Taiwan straight to your kitchen—how cool is that?

The pork belly in this dish is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the rice is perfectly soaked in a savory braising sauce, creating a rich and satisfying meal. With Formosa Chang’s Braised Pork Lu Rou Fan paste, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic Taiwanese dish at home. Simply boil the unopened packet for five minutes, then pour the paste over a bowl of rice. In minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering, authentic meal!

Great for: Fans of Taiwanese food, home cooks, friends, family, or anyone craving a taste of Taiwan’s comforting flavors.

Where to buy: You can find Formosa Chang Braised Pork Lu Rou Fan paste on Miss Foodie.TW, making it easy to enjoy this local favorite from anywhere.

This instant version of Lu Rou Fan brings the true taste of Taiwan right to your table, without any hassle!

Taiwan Snacks to Bring Home: Crunchoco Chocolate Cookies with Almonds

A Taiwanese snack that I am seriously in love with is the Imei Crunchoco Chocolate Cookies with Almonds. They are everything I wish a chocolate cookie to be, and I love to eat them with hot soy milk!

These cookies feature a perfect blend of crunchy cookies, smooth chocolate, and roasted almonds, creating the ideal mix of sweet and nutty flavors. Each bite is crispy on the outside, with a melt-in-your-mouth chocolatey center—definitely a crowd-pleaser for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Loved by: Families, friends, coworkers, and anyone who loves chocolate and cookies.

Where to buy: You can find Crunchoco Chocolate Cookies in bakeries, local markets, and souvenir shops across Taiwan. Be sure to look for them in popular spots like Shilin Night Market or Taipei’s shopping districts.

Taiwan Oolong Tea and Drinks

Taiwan’s Oolong teas are renowned for their complex flavors and aromatic profiles. Taiwan is one of the best places to grow Oolong tea so it’s no surprise that it’s one of the best Taiwanese souvenirs to take home.

Tea can be bought from most tea merchants and stores in Taiwan for 200-900 NTD ($6-$30 per bag) depending on the quality and vendor. One of the best tea is from Pinglin from Xuan Zi Ju tea house, winner of the Taiwan national tea competition. Alishan’s tea is also very high quality and make excellent gifts. You can buy pre-packaged tea bags or packs in order to brew them at home.

Head to Pinglin for a traditional Taiwanese tea ceremony experience with this Shiding and Pinglin Tea Plantation Tour which is part of our Taiwan Itinerary for 10 days.

Loved by: Tea enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals

Where to buy: While Oolong tea can be found in tea shops and supermarkets across Taiwan, in Pinglin and Alishan, renowned for its picturesque tea fields and high-quality teas. Visitors can purchase tea directly from the plantation or from nearby tea shops and souvenir stores.

If you love nature, consider hiking Elephant mountain trail in Taipei, or visiting the famous Kenting National Park in Pingtung County.

Taiwan Brown Sugar Ginger Tea Cubes

Brown Sugar Ginger Tea 海燕窝 are one of Taiwan famous things to buy and have incredibly health benefits and tastes amazing!

Taiwan’s brown sugar ginger tea cubes are a blend of premium brown sugar, freshly grated ginger, and aromatic spices, compressed into convenient cubes. Basically boil the sugar cube in hot water then serve as a hot beverage.

Deeshen absolutely loves this—it packs a punch just like coffee but even better! The bold, warming flavors make it a perfect pick-me-up anytime you need a boost.

You can buy this at Jiufen Old Street, our favorite place to eat Jiufen food and buy food souvenirs.

Loved by: Perfect for coffee and tea lovers. Those seeking a comforting and revitalizing beverage, individuals interested in traditional Taiwanese remedies, tea enthusiasts

Where to buy: Our favorite place to buy food souvenirs including these ginger tea is in Jiufen (Pssttt, Save my best food in Jiufen guide). Look for packaged cubes in Jiufen. Brown sugar ginger tea cubes are also readily available in tea shops, health food stores, and traditional markets throughout Taiwan. Consider purchasing a few extra packs to share the warmth and flavor of Taiwan with friends and loved ones back home.

Taiwan Dried Fruits and Candied Fruits

Dried and candied fruits are a delicious and easy snack to bring home from Taiwan. We first tried them at a night market in Taipei, and they quickly became a favorite of ours.

Taiwan offers a variety of dried and candied fruits, from sweet dried pineapple to tangy candied ginger. These treats are made from local fruits, keeping their natural flavors while adding a sweet, chewy twist.

Great souvenir for: Families, friends, coworkers, or anyone who enjoys fruity snacks.

Where to buy: You can find dried and candied fruits in specialty shops, markets, and souvenir stores across Taiwan. Popular spots like Shilin Night Market in Taipei and Jiufen Old Street offer a great selection of these treats.

Taiwan’s dried and candied fruits are a perfect way to bring home a tasty piece of the island!

Shopping at Taiwan Night Markets are very safe. Check out my guide on is it safe to travel to Taiwan right now. The country is very safe however there are a couple safety tips to be aware of while traveling in Taiwan.

Taiwan Food Souvenirs: Chocolates

Uncover Taiwan’s hidden gem—artisanal chocolates! There is a tree-to-bar chocolate industry in Taiwan that most people don’t know about. Fuwan Chocolate, TL Chocolates & Cacao Plantation in Nantou, Chiu’s CoCo in Pingtung, Joyce Chocolate Cafe Workshop in Pingtung, Cocosun Ccao Farm in Pintung, FuWan Chocolate in Kaohsiung, Uncle A-Shin’s Choco Farm in Kenting.

Loved by: Chocolate enthusiasts, foodies

Where to buy: You can find these artisanal chocolate shops in different parts of Taiwan, including Nantou, Pingtung, and Kaohsiung.

Final Thoughts: Taiwan Snacks Souvenir

And there you have it, here’s the famous Taiwan food souvenirs you must buy hike in Formosa!

We hope you found this list all the Taiwan delicacies to bring home helpful.

Don’t forget to try new snacks outside of these recommendations as well.