Overall Assessment
The 2026 CNY snack scene in Singapore offers an impressive blend of tradition and innovation. From heritage brands dating back to the 1960s to modern artisanal bakeries, shoppers have access to an extensive range of festive treats that cater to diverse dietary needs and flavor preferences. The market has evolved to include halal-certified options, plant-based alternatives, and creative fusion flavors while maintaining the nostalgic essence of traditional recipes.
Detailed Snack Analysis
Traditional Classics
Pineapple Tarts The undisputed star of CNY celebrations comes in multiple variations across brands. Traditional Nyonya-style tarts feature buttery pastry shells filled with caramelized pineapple jam, while open-faced versions showcase golden pineapple balls atop melt-in-the-mouth bases. Modern interpretations include matcha, pandan, mango, Earl Grey, and even numbing mala variations. These tarts represent prosperity and good fortune, making them essential for every household.
Kueh Bangkit These delicate coconut-tapioca cookies literally melt on your tongue, offering a subtle sweetness and aromatic coconut fragrance. The traditional white version remains popular, though innovative bakers now offer variations topped with crispy cheese flakes for an unexpected savory twist. Their powdery, crumbly texture makes them particularly appealing to older generations.
Love Letters (Kueh Kapit) Paper-thin, crispy rolled wafers with a honeyed sweetness and distinctive scroll shape. Traditional versions feature the classic egg and coconut flavor, while contemporary adaptations incorporate chicken floss for a savory-sweet combination. These labor-intensive treats require special molds and careful rolling while still hot.
Savory Selections
Prawn Rolls & Shrimp Rolls Crispy, deep-fried spring roll pastries filled with spiced prawn paste, often enhanced with sambal and hae bi hiam (spicy dried shrimp). These addictive snacks deliver a satisfying crunch with umami-rich filling and a subtle heat that keeps you reaching for more.
Keropok & Chips The snacking category includes traditional belinjau (bitternut) crackers offering sweet-spicy notes, Japanese lotus root chips with their characteristic holes and crispy texture, arrowhead chips, and salted egg variations. These light, crunchy options are perfect for casual nibbling during reunion gatherings.
Bak Kwa Heritage smoky jerky with a characteristic char aroma, tender yet slightly chewy texture, and sweet-savory glaze. Modern variations include satay-flavored and Mandarin orange-infused options. Kim Tee’s uniquely thin and tender texture sets it apart from chunkier competitors.
Cookie Innovations
Fusion Flavors The modern CNY cookie landscape showcases remarkable creativity. Nasi lemak cookies capture the essence of Singapore’s beloved dish with anchovy umami, coconut aroma, and subtle sambal kick. Nanyang kopi gao butter cookies deliver bold coffee flavor for caffeine lovers. Blueberry cheesecake tarts offer Western-inspired indulgence in traditional tart shells.
Classic Cookies Cashew nut cookies with buttery richness and slight saltiness, almond cookies with their distinctive crumbly texture, salted egg butter cookies combining savory yolk with sweet butter, and tangerine chocolate chip cookies adding citrus brightness to familiar chocolate chips.
Specialty Items
Kuih Bahulu Mini honey sponge cakes with a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. These bite-sized treats are less common but highly prized for their nostalgic appeal and unique texture contrast.
Blind Box Cookies August Signature’s innovation brings the excitement of surprise unboxing to CNY snacking. Four mini cookie cans contain hidden flavors, appealing to younger generations familiar with collectible culture.
Delivery & Ordering Options
Pre-Order Timelines
Immediate Availability:
- Pineapple Tarts Singapore: Pre-orders open now, delivery from 5 Jan 2026
- Wang Lai Bakery: Pre-orders open now, delivery from 2 Jan 2026
- Ding Bakery: Orders accepted now through 3 Mar 2026
- August Signature: Pre-orders open now
- Swiss Cottage Bakery: Pre-orders online with 2-4 day lead time
- Aunty Hong: Pre-orders open now
- Kim Tee: Pre-orders open now, delivery 27 Jan – 15 Feb 2026
Delivery Methods
Standard Delivery Most brands offer standard islandwide delivery with varying minimum order requirements. Ding Bakery provides free delivery on orders above $100, making bulk purchases more economical.
Pick-Up Options Kim Tee offers in-store collection from 26 Jan – 14 Feb 2026 at multiple locations including Toa Payoh and Old Airport Road (subject to stock availability). Swiss Cottage Bakery allows pick-up with pre-orders.
Lead Times Delivery windows range from immediate to 2-4 days depending on the brand. Peak period deliveries (late January to mid-February) should be booked early as slots fill quickly during the festive rush.
Ordering Platforms
All featured brands accept online orders through their respective websites. This allows convenient browsing, customizable bundle selections, and contactless transactions. Most platforms offer bundle deals and early bird discounts for advance orders.
Price Analysis
Budget Range
Entry-level options start from $10.79 (Ding Bakery), with most traditional snacks priced between $12.50-$17 per tin or bottle.
Mid-Range
Premium handmade selections typically cost $14.90-$28.80 per container, reflecting quality ingredients and artisanal production methods.
Value Strategies
- Early bird discounts available across multiple brands
- Bundle deals offering 4-8 bottles with mix-and-match options
- Free delivery thresholds that encourage larger orders
- Competitive pricing despite premium ingredients
Special Dietary Considerations
Halal-Certified: Swiss Cottage Bakery offers fully halal-certified options without compromising on variety or taste.
Vegetarian/Plant-Based: Swiss Cottage Bakery also caters to plant-based diets, making CNY celebrations inclusive for all dietary preferences.
Traditional Ingredients: Brands like Wang Lai Bakery and Aunty Hong preserve heritage recipes using time-honored methods, appealing to purists seeking authentic flavors.
Final Recommendations
For Traditional Purists: Wang Lai Bakery (recipes since 1968) or Aunty Hong (heritage recipes from 1960s)
For Innovation Seekers: August Signature (blind boxes, nasi lemak cookies) or Pineapple Tarts Singapore (mala variations)
For Premium Quality: Ding Bakery (freshly baked before delivery, imported ingredients)
For Dietary Needs: Swiss Cottage Bakery (halal-certified, vegetarian-friendly)
For Bak Kwa Lovers: Kim Tee (heritage brand with unique flavors)
For Budget-Conscious Shoppers: Ding Bakery (from $10.79) with free delivery over $100
The 2026 CNY snack market successfully balances nostalgia with innovation, offering something for every palate and budget while maintaining the cultural significance of festive snacking traditions.