7 Must-Try Signature Desserts from Countries Around the World

Originating in either Australia or New Zealand, pavlova is a meringue-based dessert topped with fruit and whipped cream. This light, summery dessert, named after Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, is now a staple across the world and part of the national cuisine of both Australia and New Zealand. © Ppy2010ha | Dreamstime.com

This traditional Brazilian dessert consists of condensed milk, butter, cocoa powder and chocolate sprinkles. Brigadeiro is popular throughout the country, often featured at festivals and other special events. © Eva Ziatkova | Dreamstime.com

Synonymous with French cuisine is the iconic macaron, supposedly dating back to the Renaissance. A meringue-based item with egg white, icing sugar and sometimes food coloring for a rainbow of colors, this delicious dessert comes in a variety of flavors, from chocolate to raspberry to lavender. Many French cafés across the country serve authentic macarons. © Elena Veselova | Dreamstime.com

Mochi is a Japanese rice cake often mixed with water, sugar and cornstarch. This popular dessert can be traced back to the sixth century and is associated with different seasons and festivals. Sweet mochi can be filled with different flavored fillings, from strawberry to red bean paste to even ice cream. © Tashka2000 | Dreamstime.com

This Lebanese dish, called ashta, consists of simmered milk, sugar, orange blossom water and cornstarch, as well as vinegar for a unique texture and appearance. This beloved and rich dessert is adored throughout the Middle East. © Iuliana Sbirnea | Dreamstime.com

Hailing from India is kaju katli, a sweet made with sugar, thickening milk, cashew nuts and saffron. An old recipe, this popular dessert often takes a diamond shape and can also feature ghee and dried fruits. © Jehangir Hanafi | Dreamstime.com

Founded in the Ottoman Empire (now Türkiye), the popular baklava dessert has made a global impression in the dessert world. Made with filo pastry, nuts and syrup or honey, baklava has made its way across Turkish, Iranian, Arab and Greek cuisine. © Umariletisim | Dreamstime.com