As we welcome the Year of the Horse, Singapore’s culinary scene has outdone itself with an impressive array of Chinese New Year treats. After sampling offerings from various vendors, here’s an in-depth review of the standout snacks, their quality, and what makes them worth your festive budget.
Premium Hotel Offerings: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant – Marriott Tang Plaza
Signature Dish: Golden Nian Gao Tarts (From $38)
The star of Wan Hao’s lineup is undoubtedly their Golden Nian Gao Tarts collection. The new Salted Egg and Mung Bean Paste variation strikes a masterful balance between savory and sweet—the salted egg yolk adds a rich, umami depth that cuts through the sweetness of the nian gao, while the mung bean paste provides a smooth, earthy undertone. The buttery tart shell crumbles perfectly, maintaining its structure without being overly dense.
The Yuzu Chocolate variety offers a more adventurous flavor profile. The bright citrus notes of yuzu dance with white chocolate ganache, creating a sophisticated treat that feels contemporary yet respectful of tradition. For purists, the Golden Pandan Nian Gao Tarts with Gula Melaka deliver nostalgic comfort with their fragrant pandan aroma and caramelized coconut topping.
Must-Try: The made-to-order Koi Fish desserts are nothing short of showstoppers. While they border on too-beautiful-to-eat territory, the Fresh Mango Pudding version offers a refreshing counterpoint to the typically rich CNY fare.
Delivery: Available from 8 January to 3 March 2026. Orders require advance booking via their website or call 6831 4605. Both self-collection and delivery available.
Goodwood Park Hotel – The Deli
Signature Creation: Charming Stallion Butter Cake (From $32.80)
Goodwood Park Hotel’s artisanal approach is evident in their hand-sculpted cakes. Pastry Chef Joe Tan spends two days crafting each Charming Stallion, and the effort shows. No two cakes are identical, making each purchase feel personal and special. The butter cake itself is moist without being heavy, with a fine crumb that melts on the tongue.
The Gold Ingots of Prosperity (Pineapple Financiers) reimagines the classic French pastry as auspicious treats. These boast the characteristic almond aroma and nutty flavor of traditional financiers, but the addition of pineapple brings a tropical sweetness and slight tang that prevents them from being cloying.
For those seeking something truly unique, the Sour Cream & Garlic Yam Chips offer an addictive savory option. The yam’s natural earthiness pairs beautifully with the tangy sour cream and pungent garlic, creating a sophisticated alternative to standard CNY nibbles.
Value Alert: Purchase between 11-14 January for 30% off. DBS/POSB, UOB, OCBC and Citibank cardholders get 20% early bird discount from 11 January to 8 February.
Delivery: Self-collection and delivery from 23 January to 3 March 2026. Order via website, call (+65) 6730 1786, or email [email protected].
Traditional Masters: Heritage Recipes Done Right
Ding Bakery
Signature: Award-Winning Pineapple Tarts (From $13.90)
With over 2,000 five-star Google reviews, Ding Bakery’s reputation precedes them. Their pineapple tarts live up to the hype—the pastry literally melts in your mouth, a testament to their use of premium New Zealand butter and the delicate handling of their dough. The pineapple filling strikes that elusive balance between sweet and tangy, with visible fruit fibers indicating real pineapple rather than artificial flavoring.
What sets Ding Bakery apart is their commitment to freshness. Every cookie is handmade right before delivery, never mass-produced or warehoused. This means you’re getting treats at their peak flavor and texture. Their Kueh Bangkit crumbles perfectly with that characteristic tapioca starch texture, while their savory options like Crispy Crabstick and Fish Skin provide welcome variety.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of their generous early bird discounts to stock up.
Delivery: Order online at www.cnygoodies.sg with delivery arranged upon ordering.
Aunty Hong
Signature: Sweet & Spicy Belinjau Keropok (From $17)
Aunty Hong represents the soul of traditional CNY snacks. Born in 1962, Aunty Hong’s recipes carry the authenticity of an era when festive treats were genuine labors of love. Her Sweet & Spicy Belinjau Keropok delivers complex flavor—the crunch is satisfying, the sweetness balanced by a gentle heat that builds gradually rather than overwhelming.
The Melty Kuih Bangkit achieves that almost impossible texture—firm enough to hold its shape but dissolving into a cloud of coconutty, aromatic powder the moment it touches your tongue. These are the cookies that grandmothers spent hours perfecting, and Aunty Hong has mastered them.
Feel-Good Factor: 1% of online proceeds go to Dover Park Hospice.
Special Offer: Quote SASSYMAMA for 5% off orders above $120 until 19 January 2026.
Delivery: Online orders available at www.auntyhong.sg with standard delivery options.
Contemporary Innovators: Modern Twists on Classics
Hiwalk (Taiwan’s No. 1 Egg Roll Brand)
Signature: Assorted Thick Egg Rolls (From $18.70)
Hiwalk brings Taiwanese flair to Singapore’s CNY scene with egg rolls that are ten times thicker than traditional versions. This isn’t just marketing speak—the difference is immediately apparent. Each roll has substantial heft and a satisfying crunch that holds up even after the package has been opened for a while.
The flavor range is impressive. The 70% dark chocolate version offers sophisticated bitterness for adult palates, while the pistachio brings nutty richness. The coffee latte flavor is surprisingly successful, capturing the essence of a creamy latte without being artificial. Individual packaging ensures each roll stays fresh and makes sharing hygienic and convenient.
Special Offer: Quote SASSYHIWALK for additional 3% off on top of early bird discounts (limited to 50 redemptions, valid until 27 January 2026).
Delivery: Order online at www.sunnyhills.com.sg or visit their Takashimaya pop-up.
Krumb
Signature: Matcha White Chocolate Chip Cookies (From $19)
Krumb successfully bridges tradition and modernity. Their Matcha White Chocolate Chip cookies exemplify this approach—the earthy, slightly bitter matcha plays beautifully against the sweet white chocolate, creating a balanced bite that feels festive yet contemporary. The use of New Zealand butter is evident in the rich, creamy texture.
The Cereal Potato cookies offer an unexpected combination that works remarkably well. The potato provides earthiness and structure, while the cereal adds textural crunch and a subtle malty sweetness. These are conversation starters that actually taste good.
For traditionalists, their Pineapple Balls deliver classic flavors with superior execution—buttery pastry housing tangy-sweet pineapple jam.
Special Offer: Quote SASSYKRUMB for $8 off when spending minimum $58 (valid until 9 January 2026).
Delivery: Online orders at www.krumb.sg with islandwide delivery.
Luxury Hamper Options: For Gifting with Impact
Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore
Premium Hampers (From $480)
Grand Copthorne’s hampers are designed for serious gifting. The Executive Hamper justifies its premium price point with truly luxurious inclusions—fine wine, Japanese dried scallops, American ginseng, and Buddha Jump Over the Wall represent the pinnacle of Chinese culinary ingredients.
The standout is Executive Chef David Toh’s Sambal X.O. Sauce, a fusion masterpiece that combines the umami-rich complexity of X.O. sauce with the fiery, aromatic punch of sambal. This elevates simple dishes and shows thoughtfulness beyond standard hamper fare.
Delivery: Order online with collection from 5 January to 3 March 2026 (minimum 3 days advance notice required).
The Hamper Story
Radiant Dynasty CNY Hamper (From $258)
The Hamper Story’s Radiant Dynasty offering demonstrates that mid-range hampers can still impress. The packaging alone—a striking red-and-blue gift box with intricate temple design—sets the tone. Inside, the curation is intelligent: Lim Chee Guan bak kwa provides the traditional anchor, Crown abalone and New Moon bird’s nest add prestige, while Barton & Guestier wine and Sincero chocolate broaden the appeal.
The inclusion of mandarin oranges, fairy lights, and festive décor shows attention to the complete gifting experience, not just the consumables.
Value Proposition: Free islandwide delivery, no GST, and free customization make this hamper particularly attractive for corporate gifting.
Delivery: Order online at www.thehamperstory.com or WhatsApp (+65) 8181 0813.
Dietary-Specific Options: Inclusive Celebrations
Mdm Ling Bakery
Halal, Vegetarian & Vegan Options (From $10.80)
Mdm Ling Bakery deserves recognition for making CNY celebrations truly inclusive. With over 50 goodies including halal-certified, vegetarian, and vegan options, they ensure everyone can participate in the festive snacking.
Their halal pineapple tarts maintain all the quality you’d expect—buttery pastry and tangy pineapple—without compromise. This is crucial for mixed gatherings where dietary requirements need consideration without sacrificing taste or tradition.
Delivery: Purchase online at www.mdmlingbakery.com with standard delivery options.
Value Analysis: Where to Spend Your CNY Budget
Best Premium Experience: Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant – The artistry and innovation justify the premium pricing, especially the Koi Fish desserts.
Best Traditional Value: Ding Bakery – Award-winning quality at accessible prices, plus early bird discounts make this exceptional value.
Best Innovation: Hiwalk – Bringing authentic Taiwanese egg rolls with unique flavors creates a memorable gifting option.
Best for Variety: Aunty Hong – Extensive range at reasonable prices with the added benefit of charitable contributions.
Best Luxury Hamper: The Hamper Story – Balances prestige with practical value through free delivery and customization.
Best Inclusive Options: Mdm Ling Bakery – Making CNY celebrations accessible to all dietary requirements without compromising quality.
Overall Delivery Landscape
Most vendors offer flexible delivery options:
- Self-collection is typically available from late January through early March
- Delivery services are widely offered, often free for orders above certain thresholds
- Advance ordering is recommended (usually 3-7 days) for made-to-order items
- Peak period: Expect longer delivery times in the final week before CNY
Final Recommendations
For Home Celebrations: Stock up on Ding Bakery’s pineapple tarts and Aunty Hong’s traditional snacks. Add Hiwalk egg rolls for variety.
For Corporate Gifting: The Hamper Story’s Radiant Dynasty strikes the right balance of prestige and value. For VIP clients, Grand Copthorne’s Executive Hamper demonstrates serious investment.
For Impressing In-Laws: Wan Hao’s Koi Fish desserts and Goodwood Park Hotel’s hand-sculpted cakes show thoughtfulness and sophistication.
For Modern Families: Krumb and Baker’s Brew offer contemporary flavors that appeal to younger palates while respecting tradition.
For Mixed Gatherings: Mdm Ling Bakery ensures everyone can enjoy the festivities regardless of dietary restrictions.
This Year of the Horse promises delicious celebrations. Whether you’re honoring tradition or embracing innovation, Singapore’s CNY goodies scene offers something for every taste and budget. Order early to secure your favorites and take advantage of early bird promotions—the best treats sell out quickly.
Gong Xi Fa Cai, and happy snacking!