This summer in China, a remarkable culinary transformation is underway as rice, long revered as a dietary cornerstone, emerges as the ingredient of choice in the nation’s most popular beverages and desserts. What began as a traditional staple is now making a significant impact across innovative tea shops and coffee chains, signaling a vibrant new chapter for this ancient grain.

Forget everything you thought you knew about rice in beverages. This isn’t just about rice milk lattes (though they’re still a cult favorite). We’re talking about an explosion of “rice desserts” that are as diverse as they are delicious. Imagine ice slushies blended with chewy sticky rice and fresh fruit, refreshing lychee rice brews, or delicate osmanthus rice smoothies that offer a fragrant, textural experience. Brands like HeyTea, LeLeCha, and ChaShan are leading the charge, making rice their signature ingredient and turning humble grains into premium, innovative concoctions.

But the rice revolution doesn’t stop there. Yogurt chains are getting in on the action with wholesome sticky rice + yogurt bowls, while even ice cream giants are rolling out indulgent Wuchang rice mochi blizzards. Niche dessert shops are going viral with their unique rice-based creations, proving that this trend has deep roots and broad appeal.

Compared to previous years, this year’s rice wave is a masterclass in culinary creativity and elevated taste, offering a sophisticated twist on a beloved ingredient. It’s not just a fad; it’s a testament to how traditional ingredients can inspire exciting new flavors in China’s ever-evolving food and beverage scene.

All images via Xiaohongshu.