Who needs a plane ticket when TikTok delivers the world’s snacks straight to your feed? From caramel-y to crunchy to over-the-top colorful, international treats are the latest obsession in America’s snack scene. Here are 10 global snacks that went viral.
10. Matcha Kit Kat
Matcha and chocolate lovers, this one’s for you! Matcha Kit Kat is finally getting its moment in the American spotlight, thanks to TikTok. The subtle bitterness of matcha balances the sweetness of white chocolate, creating a surprisingly refreshing treat. It’s a great afternoon pick-me-up and an easy way to experience a taste of modern Japanese culture.
9. Biscoff Cookie Butter
What’s better than peanut butter? Belgians say it’s Biscoff Cookie Butter, and it’s taking TikTok by storm! It’s a dreamy spread made from Belgian speculoos cookies, boasting warm, caramelized flavor and hints of cinnamon and other spices. TikTok creators are going wild with it, adding the spread to lattes and cookies.
8. Tres Leches Cake
If you’ve never had Tres Leches Cake, well, you need to! This classic Latin American dessert is a light and airy sponge cake soaked in three different kinds of milk. The result is a cake that isn’t too sweet but incredibly moist and decadent. TikTok creators are sharing their creative variations, from strawberry-topped versions to chocolate-infused creations.
7. Kinder Bueno
This European treat is a combination of crispy wafer, hazelnut filling, and a milk chocolate drizzle. Need we say more? But honestly, it’s a delicious way to treat yourself after a long day. It’s light, airy, and not too sweet, perfect for the grown-up palate. TikTok creators are also using it for milkshakes and tiramisu.
6. Tin Fish Date Night
The latest TikTok trend for a romantic, delicious dinner is all about the tin of fish. It involves elevating canned seafood, like sardines and tuna, with artisanal crackers, crusty bread, and other ingredients like olives and fresh herbs. Online, you can even find creative and beautiful “seacuterie” boards!
5. Hwachae
Hwachae is a traditional Korean dessert that’s become a viral sensation on TikTok. It’s a watermelon-based punch made with a variety of fresh fruits, milk, and sometimes a scoop of ice cream. It’s a fun dessert that’s perfect for sharing, or one that you can enjoy all year round.
4. Tanghulu
Tanghulu, a traditional Chinese street food, is basically a candied fruit on a stick. TikTok is obsessed with the process of making Tanghulu, from dipping the fruit in hot sugar syrup to the satisfying crackle of the finished product. The treat comes with a glass-like sugar coating that shatters with every bite, creating a sound that’s pure ASMR bliss.
3. Chamoy Pickle
Chamoy Pickle is a snack that will surely wake up your taste buds. It’s not your average pickle; it’s a dill pickle soaked in a combination of chamoy (a savory-sweet condiment made from pickled fruit), sweet and sour candy powders, and Tajin. It’s often wrapped in a fruit roll-up and stuffed with Takis for added crunch and kick.
2. Swedish Candy
The Swedish candy trend on TikTok is all about the “lördagsgodis” or “Saturday candy” tradition, where you create your own custom mix of candies from a wide selection of gummies, licorice, and sours. TikTok creators are showcasing their colorful candy hauls and inspiring a new appreciation for the art of candy mix.
1. Dubai Chocolate Bar
If there’s one international treat that has truly taken over TikTok, it’s the Dubai Chocolate Bar. Now, this isn’t just a chocolate bar, it’s a masterpiece of texture and flavor. It has a crispy, crunchy filling of kataifi (shredded phyllo pastry) and pistachio, encased in a milk chocolate shell. It delivers a taste of Middle Eastern luxury that captured the hearts of many foodies around the world.