Mango and Sticky Rice

By Sho @ Hungry for Thai on Jan 27th 2025 Updated: Aug 20th 2025

Mango and Sticky Rice Recipe (Khao Niew Mamuang)

If you’ve ever been to Thailand, you’ll know that mango sticky rice (ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง) is one of the country’s most beloved desserts—and for good reason!

It’s the perfect mix of creamy, chewy, sweet, and juicy.

You don’t need fancy tools to make it, just a little patience with soaking and steaming the rice.

Mango and sticky rice is a sweet Thai delight that’s loved all around the world.

Known in Thai as khao niew mamuang, this dessert is the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

You get chewy sticky rice, creamy coconut milk, and fresh, juicy mangoes—all in one bite.

It’s no surprise that many people call this the Thai national dessert. 🇹🇭🥭

The magic of this mango and sticky rice recipe comes from the way the rice soaks up the sweetened coconut milk.

The coconut sauce is lightly salted, which makes the sweetness of the ripe mango really shine.

Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds (or crispy mung beans if you want it extra traditional), and you’ve got a dessert that’s simple but irresistible.

There’s something magical about the first time you taste mango and sticky rice in Thailand.

My partner still remembers walking through a bustling street market in Bangkok, the air filled with aromas of grilled meats, fresh herbs, and sweet tropical fruits.

And then he saw it—piles of glistening sticky rice topped with golden mango slices, drizzled with creamy coconut milk.

He took a bite, and instantly, the chewy rice, sweet coconut, and juicy mango melted together perfectly.

He has no wonder this dessert, known in Thai as khao niew mamuang, is beloved across the country—and around the world.

The beauty of this Thai mango and sticky rice recipe is that it’s surprisingly simple to recreate at home.

You don’t need fancy equipment—just a little patience with soaking and steaming the sticky rice, and the magic happens when it’s mixed with sweetened coconut milk.

The result is that glossy, flavorful rice that pairs so perfectly with tender, ripe mango slices.

Sprinkle on a few toasted sesame seeds, and you’ve got a dessert that’s creamy, chewy, fruity, and utterly irresistible.

Over the years, I’ve tried many versions—at street stalls, in restaurants, even in ice cream form—but nothing beats making it fresh at home.

Whether it’s for a summer treat, a dinner party, or just a cozy night in, this easy mango and sticky rice recipe brings a taste of Thailand right to your kitchen.

And don’t worry—whether you’re new to Thai cooking or just looking for a sweet escape, this dessert is approachable, satisfying, and naturally vegan and gluten free!

What you'll need

For the Sticky Rice:

• Sticky Rice Cooked: The main ingredient for this dish, known for its chewy texture and ability to absorb the sweet coconut flavor.
• Pandan Leaves: Adds a natural aromatic fragrance to enhance the flavor of the sticky rice.
• Coconut Milk: A rich and creamy base that gives the sticky rice its signature taste and texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens the rice, balancing the richness of the coconut milk.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and brings out the depth of the coconut flavor.

For the Coconut Cream Topping:

• Coconut Milk: Forms the creamy, savory-sweet topping for the sticky rice.
• Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to complement the richness of the topping.
• Salt: Creates a savory contrast to balance the sweetness.
• Rice Flour: Thickens the topping for a smooth, silky texture.

Why You’ll Love This Mango and Sticky Rice Recipe 🩷

• Authentic Thai Flavor: Enjoy the classic taste of Thailand right at home with creamy coconut sticky rice and sweet mango.
• Sweet and Refreshing: The combination of juicy mango and soft, glossy rice is perfectly balanced.
• Naturally Vegan: Made with coconut milk, sugar, and fresh fruit—no dairy needed!
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, anyone can create this easy mango and sticky rice recipe.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for summer treats, dinner parties, or a tropical dessert fix.
• Visually Stunning: Bright yellow mango over glossy white rice makes a dessert that’s Instagram-ready.
• Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike—sure to be a hit with everyone.

How to Make Mango and Sticky Rice

Cooking Sticky Rice with Coconut Milk

1. Steam sticky rice until tender.
2. In a pot, warm coconut milk with sugar, salt, and pandan leaves. Stir until dissolved (don’t let it boil hard).
3. Pour over hot sticky rice, mix well, cover, and let sit 15 minutes.
4. Flip the rice, cover again, and rest another 15 minutes until the coconut milk is absorbed and rice is glossy.

Coconut Cream Topping

1. Warm coconut milk in a pot with sugar and salt.
2. Mix flour with a little water, then stir into the pot.
3. Simmer gently until thick and creamy.
4. Cool slightly, then drizzle over mango and sticky rice before serving.

What to Serve With

Looking for the perfect sides to round out your meal? Here are some tasty ideas:

🥗 Starter: Thai Spring Rolls – light, crispy, and perfect to start.

🥩 Main Course: Juicy Lemongrass Pork Chops or Adobo.

🍰 Dessert: Thai Mango and Sticky Rice – yes, double it up because you’ll want seconds!

What makes this treat even better is how versatile it is.

You can enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even cold as a refreshing summer snack.

These days, you’ll even find creative spins like mango and sticky rice ice cream or pre-made packs at places like Costco, but nothing beats making it fresh at home.

It’s truly the best mango and sticky rice recipe when you use ripe, fragrant mangoes.

If you’re wondering how to make mango and sticky rice, don’t worry—it’s easier than you might think.

With just a little prep time for soaking the rice, you’ll have a dessert that looks impressive but is actually very beginner-friendly.

Whether you’re new to Thai cooking or just craving something sweet and tropical, this easy mango and sticky rice recipe is sure to win you over.

Asian desserts are always a treat! 🥭

This Mango and Sticky Rice is naturally vegan, sweet, and refreshing with the perfect balance of coconut cream and ripe mango.

For another creamy and comforting vegan dessert, check out ube champorado.

Made with sticky rice, ube powder, and coconut milk, it’s Filipino comfort food at its best! 💜