How to Make Mango Sticky Rice Like a Thai Dream ✨
Creamy coconut, fragrant rice, and juicy ripe mango… what could be dreamier? Mango Sticky Rice is Thailand’s most beloved dessert, and once you’ve tasted it, you’ll understand why. It’s tropical, comforting, and shockingly easy to make at home. And I love it. I’ve been to Thailand 3 times and it is my go to dessert when I’m there.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best Mango Sticky Rice recipe, the essentials to get that perfect sticky texture, how to store it (if there’s any left), and joyful tips to make it your own. Let’s dive into the creamy, dreamy heart of it all.
Mango Sticky Rice Recipe (Creamy, Sweet & Dreamy)
This Thai-inspired dessert is pure comfort wrapped in tropical sunshine. The best part? You don’t need fancy tools—just a few pantry staples, ripe mangoes, and a little love.
🛒 Ingredients (2-3 servings):
- 1 cup glutinous (sticky) rice
- 1 ½ cups water (for steaming or soaking)
- 1 ¼ cups full-fat coconut milk
- ¼ cup sugar (coconut sugar or white sugar work great)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
Optional topping:
- 2 tbsp coconut cream (for drizzling)
- Toasted sesame seeds or mung beans (for crunch)
🍚 Sticky Rice Essentials:
- Glutinous rice (a.k.a. sweet rice) – not interchangeable with jasmine or basmati
- Bamboo or mesh steamer – for authentic sticky rice texture
- Coconut milk – use full-fat for that dreamy richness
- Sharp mango slicer – because perfect mango slices make the dish sing
- Rice soaking bowl or sieve – for proper prep
Ingredients
Method
- Soak the rice
- Rinse glutinous rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak in water for 6–8 hours (or overnight). This ensures the classic sticky, chewy texture.
- Steam the rice
- Drain the rice and steam it in a bamboo steamer lined with cheesecloth or parchment over simmering water for 20–30 minutes, flipping once halfway. Don’t boil—steaming keeps the grains perfectly sticky.
- Make the coconut sauce
- While the rice steams, gently heat coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan until fully dissolved—don’t let it boil.
- Mix it all together
- Once rice is cooked, transfer to a mixing bowl and pour in about ¾ of the coconut mixture. Stir gently and cover for 10–15 minutes so the rice absorbs the flavor.
- Plate with love
- Scoop rice onto a plate, top with sliced mango, and drizzle with the remaining coconut sauce. Add toasted sesame or mung beans if desired.
No Time to Soak Overnight?
No worries—if you’re short on time, you can still make delicious mango sticky rice without the overnight soak. Just soak the glutinous rice in hot water for 1 to 2 hours instead. This speeds up the process while still softening the grains enough for steaming. The texture may be slightly less chewy than the traditional version, but it still turns out creamy and satisfying—perfect for a last-minute treat!
💡 Joyful Tips & Add-Ons:
- Serve warm or room temperature—the texture is best this way.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or pandan essence to the coconut sauce for a dreamy twist.
- Use black sticky rice for a beautiful variation with extra fiber and nuttiness.
- Want it extra creamy? Top with a swirl of coconut cream just before serving.
🧊 Storage:
Store leftover sticky rice and coconut sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave with a spoonful of coconut milk to soften. Best eaten within 2 days.
Creative Mango Sticky Rice Twists (Add Your Own Joy)
Want to play with flavors? These dreamy variations add color, texture, and fun. Perfect for guests—or when you’re just feeling fancy.
🌸 Butterfly Pea Mango Sticky Rice
Add a few dried butterfly pea flowers to the soaking water to naturally dye your rice a stunning purple-blue. Kids and adults alike will love the magical look!
🍓 Mango Sticky Rice with Berries
Add sliced strawberries or raspberries for a sweet-tart contrast. The extra fruit adds freshness and turns this dessert into a colorful showstopper.
🥥 Toasted Coconut Crunch
Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top for added texture and a nutty finish. Use a non-stick skillet and keep the heat low—coconut burns fast!
🍫 Mango Sticky Rice with Chocolate Drizzle
A bold move, but one worth trying! Just melt dark chocolate and drizzle over plated mango slices for a Thai-meets-European twist.
Serving Ideas That Spark Joy ✨
Mango Sticky Rice isn’t just dessert—it’s a moment. Here are fun ways to make it feel extra special:
- Tropical Dessert Bar: Serve in mini ceramic cups with a variety of toppings like sesame seeds, toasted coconut, and passionfruit.
- Elegant Plating: Use a small bowl to mold the rice into a neat dome and serve on banana leaves.
- Brunch with a Twist: Add a scoop alongside pancakes or coconut waffles for an exotic side dish.
- Kids’ Fun Plate: Shape sticky rice into hearts or stars using silicone molds—a joyful surprise for little ones!
FAQ’s About Mango Sticky Rice
Can I make it without soaking the rice?
Technically yes—but the texture won’t be as chewy and authentic. Soaking is worth it!
What’s the best mango to use?
Go for ripe Ataulfo (honey) mangoes—they’re super sweet and buttery. Avoid fibrous varieties.
Can I use canned mango?
Fresh is best, but canned works in a pinch. Just drain well and slice carefully.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes! It’s naturally dairy-free, gluten-free, and plant-based.
Let the Sweet Joy Linger 💛
Isn’t it amazing what a little sticky rice, sweet mango, and creamy coconut can do? Whether you made the classic or tried a twist, we hope your kitchen feels like a tropical escape right now.
Craving more feel-good food inspiration? Explore these joyful reader favorites next:
- Vegan Avocado Toast That Tastes Like Pure Joy 🥑 – perfect light meal after a sweet dessert
- Easy Healthy Breakfast Ideas You’ll Crave Daily 🍓 – for those who love a tropical twist in the morning
- Watermelon Smoothie Recipe & Fun Twists 💕 – another fruity favorite for warm weather days
Save this pin now so your future self never has to search for the perfect mango sticky rice again 🥭🍚✨
