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As the tropical sun sets and the sweet scent of ripe mangoes fills the air, I find myself transported to a place of warmth and bliss. The allure of this dessert isn’t just in its vibrant colors; it’s in the delightful combination of flavors that bring a taste of Thailand straight to your kitchen. When I first crafted this Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert for a gathering, it was met with gasps of delight—friends and family couldn’t get enough of the creamy coconut sauce drizzled over that perfectly sticky rice!

Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or celebrating a special occasion, this delicacy is the perfect treat to make any moment feel extraordinary. Not only is it surprisingly simple to prepare, but the lush mango paired with the warm, sweet rice is utterly irresistible. So, dust off your steamer and get ready to whip up a dessert that is as beautiful to behold as it is delicious to savor. Trust me; your taste buds are in for a delightful adventure!

Why is Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert So Special?

Sweet, Tropical Bliss: The combination of fresh mangoes and creamy coconut-infused sticky rice creates a dessert that transports you to paradise.
Effortless Elegance: This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow your guests.
Versatile Delight: Serve it as a refreshing summer treat or a cozy winter indulgence—it’s perfect for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Loved by all ages, this dessert is a guaranteed hit at gatherings, just like my other favorite Thai recipes.
Layered Textures: Enjoy the contrast of the soft, sticky rice with the juicy mango slices, making every bite a delight.

Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert Ingredients

Prepare to delight your senses with this pro-level dessert!

For the Sticky Rice
• Glutinous rice – this is essential for that perfect sticky texture.
• Water – needed for soaking and steaming the rice; it helps achieve that tender, fluffy consistency.
• Salt – enhances the flavors of the coconut milk and the rice.

For the Coconut Sauce
• Coconut milk – creates a creamy richness that brings the dessert to life.
• White sugar – sweetens the sauce, balancing the natural tartness of the mango.
• Pandan leaves – optional, but add a beautiful aroma and flavor that’s distinctly Thai.
• Rice flour – helps thicken the coconut sauce for a luscious drizzle.

For Serving
• Ripe mangoes – choose ones that are colorful and fragrant for the best flavor.
• Toasted sesame seeds – an optional garnish that adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.

This Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert is just waiting to be crafted into a stunning dish!

How to Make Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert

Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. This is crucial for removing excess starch; then, let it soak in water for 4 hours or overnight to ensure a tender and sticky texture.
Steam the drained rice by placing it in a steamer lined with cheesecloth. Steam it over boiling water for 20–30 minutes, keeping an eye out for that perfect soft, sticky, and translucent look.
Cool the steamed rice slightly, allowing it to become easier to handle. Then, prepare to mix it with your delicious coconut sauce for that mouthwatering flavor infusion.
Combine the coconut milk, sugar, salt, and optional pandan leaves in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir regularly for about 3 minutes, or until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a harmonious blend.
Soak the steamed sticky rice in a mixing bowl and pour the prepared coconut sauce over it. Mix gently, cover the bowl, and let it soak for 20 minutes to fully absorb all those tantalizing flavors.
Thicken the coconut sauce by mixing the remaining coconut milk, salt, and rice flour in a bowl. Transfer this mix to a pot and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until it reaches your desired creamy thickness.
Serve by scooping a generous portion of the coconut-infused sticky rice onto a plate, arranging thinly sliced ripe mango alongside. Drizzle with thickened coconut sauce and garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra touch of delight!

Optional: Serve with fresh coconut shreds or yellow mung beans for added texture.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can soak the glutinous rice up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it achieves that perfect sticky texture. The coconut sauce can also be prepped up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its lusciousness. When you’re ready to serve, simply steam the rice and mix it with the coconut sauce, allowing it to soak for about 20 minutes for maximum flavor. With these make-ahead tips, enjoying this delightful dessert becomes an effortless experience.

What to Serve with Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert?

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that brighten every bite and create a memorable feast.

Coconut Ice Cream: The creamy, frozen treat enhances the tropical vibes and balances the rich flavors of mango and sticky rice. A scoop adds a refreshing chill that pairs beautifully with the warm dessert.
Thai Iced Tea: This sweet, creamy drink with a hint of spice complements the dessert perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will transport you straight to a bustling Thai café.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A combination of tropical fruits like papaya, pineapple, and kiwi provides a burst of freshness and vibrant colors that enhance the mango’s sweetness.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkling these on top introduces a delightful crunch and an extra layer of coconut flavor, elevating the dreamy experience of each bite.
Pandan Waffles: Bringing a chewy contrast, these fragrant waffles can serve as a delightful base or a side, creating a lovely balance with the creamy rice and mango.
Sweetened Coconut Chips: A little crunch complements the sticky rice’s paddiness while adding a nutty element—an inviting touch that beckons another bite.
Thai Mango Salad: A zesty, herb-packed salad will refresh your palate, cutting through the richness of the coconut sauce while staying within the Thai flavor profile.
Lychee Sorbet: The light, floral notes of lychee help cleanse the palate and provide a touch of elegance that pairs beautifully with the dessert.
Sesame Dango: These chewy rice dumplings offer a hint of sweetness and nutty flavor that resonates well with the coconut and mango.

Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own while enjoying the dreamy flavors!

Vegan: Substitute coconut sugar for white sugar to maintain sweetness without animal products.
Creamier Coconut Sauce: Use full-fat coconut milk for an even richer sauce that enhances the overall dessert experience.
Berries Boost: Add fresh strawberries or blueberries alongside the mango for a burst of color and a slight tartness.
Nutty Crust: Top with crushed peanuts or almonds for a crunchy contrast against the soft rice and juicy mango.
Spice It Up: Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or cardamom in the coconut sauce for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavors to new heights.
Alternative Sweeteners: Experiment with honey or agave syrup instead of sugar for a unique flavor and natural sweetness.
Coconut Flakes: Stir in unsweetened shredded coconut into the sticky rice before serving for added texture and a tropical taste.
Lime Zest: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh lime zest for a zesty kick that balances out the sweetness beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert

Room Temperature: Serve the Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert immediately for the best flavor and texture. If left out, it can be safely stored for up to 2 hours.

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of coconut milk to restore creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sticky rice without the mango for up to 1 month. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen sticky rice, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat with a little coconut milk until warmed through.

Tips for the Best Mango Sticky Rice

Choose Ripe Mangoes: Select mangoes that are soft to the touch and fragrant for the ultimate sweet flavor in your Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert.
Soak Rice Properly: Don’t skip the soaking step! It’s essential for achieving that perfectly sticky texture; aim for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
Watch the Steaming: Steaming the rice too long can make it mushy. Check for doneness around the 20-minute mark to ensure it’s soft yet retains its structure.
Mix Gently: When combining the sticky rice with the coconut sauce, stir gently. You want even distribution without breaking up the rice too much.
Adjust Thickness: If the coconut sauce is too thick, add a splash of coconut milk. For a thicker consistency, let it cook a bit longer while stirring continuously.

Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my mangoes are ripe enough to use?
Absolutely! Look for mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and emit a sweet, fruity aroma. The skin should have a vibrant color and may even show a few dark spots, indicating ripeness. Avoid mangoes that are too firm or have large blemishes.

What is the best way to store leftover Mango Sticky Rice?
Very! For leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of coconut milk if it seems dry; this helps restore that creamy texture.

Can I freeze the Mango Sticky Rice? What’s the best method?
Absolutely! You can freeze the sticky rice (without the mango) for up to 1 month. Make sure it cools completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the rice overnight in the fridge and reheat with a little coconut milk over low heat until warm and inviting.

What if my sticky rice turns out too hard or dry?
No worries! You can try soaking the rice longer next time—ideally around 6 to 8 hours—or ensure it’s steamed for the appropriate time to achieve that tender, sticky consistency. If you find the rice is too dry after cooking, simply mix in a little warm coconut milk gradually until you reach the desired moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions or allergies?
Yes, the Best Mango Sticky Rice Dessert can be made suitable for various dietary needs! If someone has a coconut allergy, you could substitute the coconut milk with almond or soy milk. For gluten-free options, be sure to use certified gluten-free rice flour. Always check for ingredients that may contain allergens before serving to guests or family.