sticky rice dessert recipe
The Best sticky rice dessert recipe
I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite sticky rice dessert recipe. This traditional Thai dish is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too. Sticky rice, also known as sweet sticky rice or glutinous rice, is a type of short-grain rice that’s naturally sweet and chewy.
It’s a perfect base for all sorts of delicious desserts, from classic mango sticky rice to more modern creations like coconut sticky rice with fresh fruit. Growing up, my family would often have sticky rice desserts at special occasions like weddings and holidays. My mom would spend hours in the kitchen preparing the perfect sticky rice, cooking it to perfection, and serving it with fresh fruits, nuts, and other sweet treats.
It was always a highlight of the meal, and I loved watching her carefully craft each dessert with love and care. As I got older, I began experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create new variations of this classic dessert. I’ve tried using different types of sugar, adding spices like cinnamon and cardamom, and even incorporating fresh herbs like basil and lemongrass.
But no matter what I add or take away, the core ingredient remains the same: sticky rice. There’s something magical about cooking sticky rice that makes it truly special. The way it absorbs all the flavors around it, the way it becomes soft and fluffy while still retaining its natural sweetness…
it’s just incredible. And when you serve it with fresh fruits or other sweet treats, the combination is simply divine.

Sticky Rice with Coconut and Mung Beans
A traditional Southeast Asian dessert featuring sweet sticky rice, coconut milk, and mung beans. This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and cook.
🥘Ingredients
For the Sticky Rice
For the Coconut Milk Mixture
For the Mung Bean Filling
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
This sticky rice dessert is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be served at room temperature or chilled, making it perfect for family gatherings. You can make it ahead of time, which makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special events. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to other desserts, as it’s made with natural ingredients and is low in sugar.
It’s a great way to introduce your family to Asian cuisine and a fun way to bond over a shared meal. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet. The key to making this dessert is to soak the sticky rice overnight. This helps the rice absorb water and cook evenly, resulting in a perfectly chewy texture.
It’s also important to use a steamer or a rice cooker with a steaming function. This allows the rice to cook gently and evenly, without becoming mushy. You can serve it chilled, with a drizzle of coconut cream and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added crunch. This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste.
You can add fruits like mango or pineapple for a tropical twist, or mix in some nuts for added protein and crunch.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sticky Rice with Coconut and Mung Beans
Q: What type of sugar should I use for this recipe?
You can use either granulated sugar or brown sugar for this recipe. If you want a more traditional flavor, use granulated sugar. If you want a richer flavor with hints of caramel, use brown sugar.
Q: Can I substitute other types of rice for sticky rice?
No, you cannot substitute other types of rice for sticky rice. Sticky rice has a unique texture and flavor that’s essential to this dessert. Other types of rice may not provide the same level of chewiness and natural sweetness.
Q: How do I store leftover sticky rice desserts?
Store leftover sticky rice desserts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When storing in the refrigerator, make sure to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the dessert to prevent drying out.
Q: Can I reheat leftover sticky rice desserts?
Yes, you can reheat leftover sticky rice desserts by microwaving them for 10-15 seconds or by baking them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Q: What are some popular variations of this recipe?
Some popular variations include using different types of fruits like mangoes or pineapples, adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom, or incorporating fresh herbs like basil or lemongrass.
