As Asian-inspired desserts gain in popularity, sesame balls appeal to diners seeking both safety and novelty in dessert options.

Sesame balls are in the inception stage; they skew toward independent and midscale operators.

Found on 0.9% of U.S. menus

+36% over the past four years

35% of the population knows it

15% have tried it

Awareness highest among Asian consumers

Unit Su Vege, Philadelphia

Fried Sesame Ball: Red bean paste wrapped in rice flour and rolled in sesame seeds; this dish is vegan.