Name: Thai Mango Sweet Sticky Rice
Prep time: 2 h 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 cup glutinous sweet rice; 1 cup full-fat coconut milk; 1 tablespoon coconut milk (extra); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch; 2–3 ripe mangoes; 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Thai Mango Sweet Sticky Rice is a beloved Southeast Asian dessert made with creamy coconut-infused sticky rice, juicy ripe mangoes, and a rich coconut sauce drizzled on top. This classic treat perfectly balances sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors in every bite. Whether served after dinner or enjoyed as a refreshing afternoon dessert, this recipe delivers authentic Thai-inspired flavors with simple ingredients and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Naturally dairy-free and vegan-friendly
Perfect combination of creamy coconut and sweet mango
Great make-ahead dessert for gatherings
Authentic Thai dessert flavor at home
Rich, satisfying, and beautifully presented
Customizable with different toppings and fruits
Perfect balance of warm sticky rice and cool fresh mango

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup glutinous sweet rice
1 cup full-fat coconut milk
1 tablespoon coconut milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
2 to 3 ripe fresh mangoes
1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

Begin by soaking the glutinous rice in water for at least 2 hours or overnight. This step is important because it softens the rice and helps create the signature sticky texture after steaming. Once soaked, drain the rice thoroughly.

Prepare a steamer and steam the rice for 20 to 30 minutes. Check the rice after 20 minutes to ensure it is soft and fully cooked. The grains should be tender with no hard center remaining.

If you do not own a steamer, you can create a simple homemade version. Fill a large pot with water and place three equal-sized balls of aluminum foil at the bottom. Set a heat-safe plate or bowl on top of the foil balls and place the rice inside. Cover the pot and steam the rice until tender.

While the rice cooks, prepare the coconut sauce. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.

Once boiling, pour half of the coconut mixture into a separate bowl and set it aside. This portion will later be mixed directly into the cooked rice.

To thicken the remaining coconut sauce, mix 1 tablespoon coconut milk with cornstarch in a small bowl. Add this mixture into the saucepan and cook for several minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

When the rice is fully cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and pour the reserved coconut mixture over it. Stir gently to combine, then let the rice sit for about 15 to 20 minutes so it absorbs the sweet coconut flavor.

Meanwhile, peel and slice the mangoes into thin pieces.

To assemble, place portions of sticky rice onto serving plates. Arrange sliced mangoes alongside the rice and drizzle the thickened coconut sauce generously over the top. Sprinkle sesame seeds as garnish before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

Add toasted coconut flakes for extra texture and flavor.
Replace sesame seeds with crushed roasted peanuts.
Serve with sliced bananas or fresh berries for a fruit variation.
Use coconut cream instead of coconut milk for an even richer dessert.
Add a small splash of vanilla extract to the coconut sauce for additional sweetness.
Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a deeper flavor profile.
Try black sticky rice for a colorful twist on the traditional recipe.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover sticky rice and coconut sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep sliced mangoes refrigerated in a separate container for the freshest flavor.

To reheat the sticky rice, sprinkle a little water over it and microwave in short intervals until warm and soft. Reheat the coconut sauce separately in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.

Avoid reheating the mangoes, as fresh mango tastes best when served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What is glutinous rice?

Glutinous rice, also called sweet rice or sticky rice, is a type of rice commonly used in Asian desserts because of its sticky texture after cooking.

Can I use regular rice instead?

Yes, but the texture will be different. Jasmine or sushi rice can work in a pinch, though authentic mango sticky rice traditionally uses glutinous rice.

Why do I need to soak the rice?

Soaking softens the grains and allows the rice to steam evenly, creating the proper sticky consistency.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the rice and coconut sauce ahead of time and assemble the dessert before serving.

What type of mango works best?

Use ripe, sweet mangoes with soft flesh. The sweeter the mango, the better the dessert tastes.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes. This recipe contains no dairy or animal products, making it naturally vegan-friendly.

Can I freeze sticky rice?

Freezing is possible, but the texture may change slightly after thawing. Freshly made sticky rice tastes best.

How do I know when the rice is done steaming?

The rice should be tender all the way through with no hard center when bitten.

Can I use light coconut milk?

You can, but full-fat coconut milk gives the dessert a creamier and richer flavor.

What can I use instead of sesame seeds?

You can substitute toasted coconut flakes, chopped nuts, or simply leave the garnish out.

Conclusion

Thai Mango Sweet Sticky Rice is a comforting dessert that combines creamy coconut-infused rice with naturally sweet mangoes for a truly unforgettable treat. Its rich texture, tropical flavor, and simple preparation make it perfect for family desserts, dinner parties, or whenever you crave something sweet and satisfying. Once you try this homemade version, it may quickly become one of your favorite desserts to make again and again.