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Creamy Mango Sticky Rice Dessert Recipe with Easy Coconut Drizzle

mango sticky rice dessert - featured image

A classic Thai-inspired dessert featuring tender sticky rice soaked in rich coconut milk, paired with fresh mango slices and a silky coconut drizzle. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup glutinous (sticky) rice, rinsed and soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight
  • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (for drizzle)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (for drizzle)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (for drizzle)
  • 1 teaspoon tapioca starch or cornstarch (to thicken drizzle)
  • 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced (firm but sweet varieties like Ataulfo or Kent)
  • Toasted sesame seeds or mung beans (optional, for garnish and crunch)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in fresh water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Drain the soaked rice thoroughly. Set up your steamer basket over boiling water and spread the rice evenly inside. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and steam for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender but still sticky.
  3. While the rice steams, combine 1 cup coconut milk, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a saucepan. Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
  4. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a bowl. Pour the warm coconut milk mixture over it and stir gently to combine. Cover and let it sit for 20-30 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the flavors fully.
  5. In a small saucepan, whisk together 1/2 cup coconut milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon tapioca starch or cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  6. Peel and slice 2 ripe mangoes into thin, even slices. Arrange them on serving plates alongside a generous scoop of the creamy sticky rice.
  7. Drizzle the warm coconut sauce over the rice and mango. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or crispy mung beans if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Soaking the sticky rice for at least 4 hours or overnight is crucial for the perfect chewy texture. Cover the rice with a clean towel while steaming to keep moisture in and prevent sogginess. Warm the coconut milk mixture gently without boiling to avoid separation. If the coconut drizzle thickens too much upon cooling, gently reheat with a splash of coconut milk before serving. Frozen mango chunks can be used if fresh mangoes are not in season; thaw and pat dry to avoid excess water.

Nutrition

Keywords: mango sticky rice, creamy dessert, coconut drizzle, Thai dessert, easy mango recipe, gluten-free dessert, vegan dessert