Looking for the best Chinese New Year cookies in Singapore this 2026? You’ve come to the right place.
Every Lunar New Year, cookie jars across Singapore are filled with irresistible treats, buttery pineapple tarts, melt-in-mouth kueh bangkit, crispy love letters, and modern favourites like salted egg and hae bee hiam cookies.
These goodies aren’t just snacks; they carry deep cultural meaning. In Chinese tradition, offering sweet treats symbolises prosperity, happiness, and togetherness for the coming year. Whether you’re hosting relatives or gifting colleagues, these cookies are the perfect way to spread festive cheer.
Here’s your guide to the seven best CNY cookies in Singapore, a mix of timeless classics and creative flavours to welcome the Year of the Snake in 2026.
1. Pineapple Tarts
No list of Chinese New Year cookies is complete without pineapple tarts.
In Hokkien, “ong lai” means fortune comes, which explains why these golden pastries are the highlight of every festive platter. Each tart combines buttery, crumbly pastry with slow-cooked pineapple jam for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
What to look for:
- Freshly made tarts with a soft, buttery crust
- Pineapple jam that’s not overly sweet or sticky
- No artificial colouring or essence
Tip: Both open-faced and closed-ball versions are popular; the open-faced version is ideal for presentation, while the closed version is perfect for extra jam filling.
2. Almond Cookies
Light, nutty, and fragrant, almond cookies are believed to bring happiness and success. Their crumbly texture and subtle aroma make them an elegant contrast to sweeter CNY snacks.
Why Singaporeans love them: They’re not too sweet, easy to pair with tea, and stay fresh longer than cream-filled cookies. Some bakeries also offer cashew or macadamia variations for those who prefer a different nutty twist.
Buying tip: Choose cookies made with real almond flour or ground nuts rather than artificial flavouring; the taste difference is unmistakable.
3.Crispy Golden Arrowroot Cookies
Arrowroot cookies are a nostalgic CNY favourite in many Singaporean households. Light, airy, and delicately sweet, these cookies crumble beautifully with every bite. They’re made from arrowroot flour, butter, eggs, and sugar — giving them a unique, powdery texture that melts instantly on the tongue.
Why they’re loved:
Arrowroot cookies strike the perfect balance between subtle sweetness and satisfying crunch. They’re a great choice for guests who prefer lighter snacks that aren’t too buttery or rich. Many families also consider them a symbol of purity and new beginnings for the Lunar New Year.
What to look for:
Light, delicate sweetness
Pale golden colour (not overly browned)
Crisp texture that breaks gently
No oily residue
4. Kueh Bangkit
If you grew up in Singapore, you probably know the joy of kueh bangkit, a cookie that melts almost instantly on the tongue. Made from tapioca flour, coconut milk, and pandan, it’s both delicate and addictive.
Fun fact: “Bangkit” means to rise, symbolising personal growth and new beginnings, making it one of the most meaningful cookies of the Lunar New Year.
Signs of quality:
- Pale white colour (not browned)
- Strong coconut aroma
- Dissolves easily without being gritty
Best paired with: Unsweetened tea or coffee to balance the light coconut flavour.
5. Hae Bee Hiam Cookies
For those who prefer savoury snacks, hae bee hiam cookies are a must-try. Combining butter, dried shrimp, and chilli sambal, these spicy bites deliver that addictive umami punch Singaporeans can’t get enough of.
Why it stands out: They balance rich, spicy, and slightly sweet notes, a welcome change from the usual sugary treats. Perfect for guests who like something bold and different.
Serving suggestion: Include them in your cookie box to surprise visitors with a flavour that’s uniquely Singaporean.
6. Pandan Ondeh-Ondeh Cookies
Inspired by the traditional Malay dessert ondeh-ondeh, this modern cookie combines pandan, coconut, and gula melaka (palm sugar) in one delightful bite. The result is a fragrant, chewy treat that bridges cultures and generations.
If you love creative local flavours and plant-based treats, explore our guide to the best vegetarian restaurants in Singapore.
Taste profile:
- Sweetness from gula melaka
- Aroma from fresh pandan
- Slight chewiness from coconut
Why it’s popular: Singaporeans love fusion flavours, and pandan ondeh-ondeh cookies capture that local charm perfectly, aromatic, colourful, and nostalgic.
It’s a modern twist that fits seamlessly into any festive platter.
It’s a modern twist that fits seamlessly into any festive platter.
7. Salted Egg Cookies
The salted egg trend may have started with potato chips, but it quickly found its way into Chinese New Year cookies. These golden bites combine savoury richness with buttery sweetness for a truly indulgent snack.
Why it’s a hit: The combination of salted egg yolk and butter creates a deep umami flavour that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savoury items. It’s luxurious yet comforting, ideal for gifting to friends or clients.
Pro tip: Look for cookies that use real salted egg yolk paste instead of flavour powder for a more authentic taste and texture.
How to Pick the Best Chinese New Year Cookies in Singapore
When shopping for festive treats, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here’s what to consider before you buy:
| Factor | What to Check | Why It Matters |
| Freshness | Opt for cookies baked within the past week | Guarantees crunch and aroma |
| Ingredients | Choose natural butter, nuts, and fruit | Avoid artificial flavour and colouring |
| Texture | Look for variety, crisp, crumbly, chewy | Keeps your snack tray interesting |
| Packaging | Airtight jars or tins | Preserves freshness and prevents breakage |
| Variety | Mix sweet and savoury options | Satisfies all types of guests |
Pro tip:If ordering online, check for “baked-to-order” or “freshly made” descriptions. These indicate smaller batch production and better flavour.
Tips for Building the Perfect CNY Snack Platter
Coffee enthusiasts can also check out our local guide to the best coffee in Singapore to find perfect brews for pairing with these festive cookies.
- Balance your flavours: Include both sweet and savoury snacks.
- Mix textures: Combine melt-in-mouth cookies (like kueh bangkit) with crispy ones (like love letters).
- Label the jars: Guests appreciate knowing what they’re tasting, especially for fusion flavours like pandan ondeh-ondeh.
- Store wisely: Singapore’s humidity can soften cookies fast. Always reseal jars tightly after use.
Conclusion
From buttery pineapple tarts to modern salted egg crisps, Chinese New Year cookies in Singapore represent much more than festive snacking; they embody joy, prosperity, and the warmth of reunion.
Whether you prefer traditional recipes passed down through generations or new creative flavours inspired by local favourites, the key is freshness, quality ingredients, and a variety that brings people together.
So, as you prepare your home for the Lunar New Year, fill your table with these seven must-have cookies, each one a delicious wish for a sweet, prosperous 2026.
FAQs
When should I buy CNY cookies in Singapore?
Most bakeries open pre-orders in December. It’s best to buy between early and mid-January to ensure freshness before the New Year rush.
How long do CNY cookies last?
Most cookies stay good for 2,4 weeks when kept in airtight containers. Avoid exposure to moisture or sunlight.
Are there halal or vegan options?
Yes. Many bakeries across Singapore offer halal-certified, vegan, or low-sugar versions suitable for diverse households.
What’s the best mix for gifting?
A combination of pineapple tarts, almond cookies, and salted egg crisps is a safe and universally loved trio for festive hampers.
