Chinese New Year is approaching, and that means eating your heart out as you make your rounds visiting friends and family. While know all about the big CNY feasts and festive cakes laid out on the table, let’s not forgetย the treasure trove of goodies hidden in the snack box.ย Known as Chuen Hap, or the tray of togetherness, this iconic snack box represents unity of families during this celebratory season and is a staple in households and gathering spaces. Although each tray is unique in its own way, we’ve rounded up the must-try classics and a few modern picks to elevate your spread of Chinese New Year snacks.
Read More:ย Red-y, Set, Celebrate โ A Guide To Chinese New Year Traditions
Dried Candied Winter Melon/Fruit
This is as traditional as it gets. Candied lotus root and winter melon are timeless treats commonly found in an old-fashioned chuen hap. Tracing back to ancient China, winter melon was candied to extend its shelf life, enjoyed as sweet treats that could last throughout the year. Simple to prepare at home, it became a popular snack during the Han Dynasty, with many families keeping it in stock. Over time, it gained cultural significance, often featured in tea ceremonies and gatherings. Eventually, it solidified its status as a symbol of good luck, particularly when consumed during Chinese New Year.
White Rabbit Candy
A nostalgic treat, the sweet White Rabbit is loved for its chewy, creamy, milky flavour, all wrapped in a thin sheet of edible rice paper that melts in your mouth. Since its debut in 1943, this candy has become a core memory treasured across generations. While the original milk flavour remains unmatched, their newer variations โ such as red bean, coffee, matcha, and osmanthus โ offer exciting twists on the classic. Undoubtedly, it stands as one of the finest milk candies ever created.
Melon Seeds
If thereโs one snack worth stocking up on, itโs melon seeds. These crunchy treats vanish in seconds at gatherings, often scooped up by the handful. Youโll typically encounter two varieties: red melon seeds, known for their subtle, tea-like aroma, and black melon seeds, salted and roasted for a savoury taste. Symbolising fertility and abundance, melon seeds are a popular choice for any celebration. Whichever type you choose, theyโre the perfect companion to a lively conversation.
Chocolate Coins
Gold foil-wrapped chocolate coins are a classic treat that represents sweetness and prosperity. While they may not be known for their standout taste, their meaning โ and the fun of ‘eating money’ โ makes them a festive tradition. A delightful way to welcome wealth into the new year!
Pistachios
Directly translated as the โhappy nutโ in Chinese due to their natural smile-like cracks, pistachios are a meaningful treat in the chuen hap. Easy to munch on while catching up with loved ones, theyโre associated with spreading joy and ushering in good fortune for the coming year.
Tiramisu Almonds
A modern addition to the snack box, tiramisu almonds have gained popularity over the years. While they don’t have historical roots, their rich chocolate coating, almond crunch, and dusting of cocoa powder create a multilayered treat thatโs hard to resist. A contemporary must-have for your snack spread!
Assorted Chocolates
From Toblerone to Cadbury mini bars, Hershey’s Kisses, Ferrero Rocher, and Almond Roca, assorted chocolates are always a crowd-pleaser. Sweet and versatile, they offer something for everyone at your gathering.
Sugus
Another cherished childhood treat, Sugus chewy candies are a well-liked choice during Chinese New Year. Both children and adults enjoy the anticipation of discovering the diverse range of fruity tastes hidden within the colourful wrappers. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them an agreeable and easy-to-share snack.
Tong Wan (Honeycomb Cookies)
Though not typically found in the tray, Tong Wan is an underrated traditional Chinese New Year snack. These delicate, fried flour and egg biscuits, renowned for their intricate patterns, offer a satisfyingly crisp bite. Light and airy, they make for the perfect snack. Popular across Southeast Asia under various names, Tong Wan are inspired by European rosettes, traditionally made with coconut milk.
Rachel Tang
Rachel Tang is the Social Media Manager and a contributing writer at Friday Club., where she combines her expertise in PR and Marketing with a passion for storytelling. She began writing for a media platform early in her career, which sparked a love for storytelling that still drives her work today. With a deep passion for fashion, music, and all things pretty, Rachel is always on the lookout for the next best thing โ and sheโs quick to rave about it to those around her.
