Gen Z's Tet (Lunar New Year) shopping for 2026: From the national favorite Raffaello candy to imported delicacies.
Instead of their parents preparing the traditional Tet sweets tray, young people are searching for Russian chocolates, nutritious oatmeal cookies, and exotic pine nuts for the Lunar New Year of the Horse.
With less than a month to go, the festive atmosphere of the 2026 Lunar New Year (Year of the Horse) will fill every street. This year, besides investing in outfits, a lively discussion is taking place on social media platforms about choosing sweets and treats to offer guests. As Gen Z is entrusted by their parents with preparing the tray of sweets, traditional choices are gradually giving way to new, sophisticated, and high-end delicacies.
Imported chocolate holds a dominant position.
At the top of the search list for sweet lovers this year are imported chocolates. While in the past, Tet fruit platters often featured chocolates in the shape of coins or familiar animals, now consumers prioritize international brands with distinctive flavors.
Most notably, there's Ivan almond chocolate from Russia. Despite its relatively high price, this candy is extremely popular thanks to its combination of rich sweetness and the nutty flavor of almonds. In addition, Riesen chocolate from Germany, with its slightly bitter chocolate coating and chewy caramel filling, is also a highly-rated contender on food forums.
It's impossible not to mention the national candy, Raffaello. With its elegant appearance, the round candy is covered in white shredded coconut, and inside is a crispy wafer encasing a creamy filling. However, buyers should be careful to choose reputable sources to avoid purchasing counterfeit products that detract from the taste experience.
Trends in nutritious cakes and premium nuts
Besides sweets, the trend of healthy food is also spreading strongly during the 2026 Lunar New Year season. Oatmeal cookies like Malaysian Oat Crunch chocolate or LSS buttermilk cookies are becoming a preferred choice for those who want to eat something delicious but not too rich.
Notably, this year's Tet confectionery tray promises the appearance of a new item: pine nuts. Unlike common sunflower or watermelon seeds, pine nuts have a distinctive nutty, aromatic flavor and easily crackable shells, although their popularity is not yet widespread. In addition, cashews, macadamia nuts, and almonds continue to maintain their appeal in the premium confectionery category.
Slow down and enjoy homemade happiness candy.
Instead of buying ready-made treats, many young people are choosing their own path by making nougat or other traditional cakes themselves. Gathering with family to make traditional cakes like bánh thuẫn, bánh in, or cốm not only creates unique treats but also allows Gen Z to rediscover core values and fully experience the atmosphere of the traditional Lunar New Year.
