If you’re craving something unique and flavorful, 12 must-try Thai desserts that bring you back to Bangkok will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand’s vibrant street food scene. From rich coconut puddings to fragrant sticky rice, Thai sweets offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures that make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re reminiscing about your travels or just exploring new treats, these desserts bring the essence of Thailand right into your kitchen.
Thai Milk Tea Ice Cream
Thai Milk Tea Ice Cream is a delightful twist on a beloved drink, combining the rich, bold flavors of Thai tea with a creamy texture that’s perfect for dessert. This treat is not only refreshing but also easy to make, making it a great addition to your list of unique Thai dessert ideas. The sweet, slightly spiced notes of the tea blend perfectly with the creamy base, creating a treat that’s both comforting and exotic.
If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dessert to serve on special occasions or just to enjoy at home, this ice cream will surely please everyone. The vibrant orange color can also make your dessert table pop, enticing guests to dig in. Here’s how to make this delicious treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup brewed Thai tea (cooled)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, coconut milk, brewed Thai tea, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until it is thoroughly chilled.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze: Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Serve: Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy your homemade Thai Milk Tea Ice Cream!
Banana Fritters with Honey
Banana fritters are a delightful Thai dessert that brings a warm, sweet flavor to your plate. These crispy treats are made from ripe bananas, which are battered and deep-fried until golden brown. Topped with honey or syrup, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture that is sure to please everyone.
This recipe is simple and quick, making it a great option for a dessert or snack. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with fresh fruits for added freshness. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual evening treat!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Oil for frying
- Honey for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the coconut milk and stir until you have a smooth batter.
- Slice the Bananas: Cut the ripe bananas into thick slices.
- Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat enough oil over medium heat for deep frying.
- Fry the Fritters: Dip each banana slice into the batter, then carefully place it in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fritters from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel. Drizzle with honey before serving.
Sweet Potato and Coconut Dessert
This delightful Thai dessert combines the rich flavors of sweet potato and creamy coconut milk, creating a treat that’s both satisfying and comforting. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the luscious coconut, making every bite a little piece of heaven.
Not only is this dessert delicious, but it’s also quite simple to prepare. You’ll find it’s a wonderful option for those looking to try unique Thai dessert ideas at home. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a classic that embodies the essence of Thai coconut desserts.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup tapioca pearls (optional)
- 1 tablespoon pandan leaves (optional, for fragrance)
Instructions
- Boil the Sweet Potatoes: In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the diced sweet potatoes. Cook until they are soft, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Coconut Sauce: In a separate pot, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over low heat until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally. If you’re using pandan leaves, add them for extra flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the boiled sweet potatoes to the coconut mixture. If using tapioca pearls, cook them separately according to package instructions and then add them to the pot.
- Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional coconut milk if desired.
Thai Coconut Pudding Cakes
Thai coconut pudding cakes, or “kanom krok”, are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweetness and creaminess. These small, steamed desserts have a rich coconut flavor with just the right amount of sweetness, making them a popular choice among traditional Thai sweets to try.
They are quite simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients like coconut milk and rice flour. The texture is soft and slightly chewy, with a light topping of grated coconut that adds a nice finishing touch. If you’re looking for unique Thai dessert ideas, this recipe will surely impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water
- Grated coconut for topping
Instructions
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine rice flour, sugar, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix coconut milk and water until well combined.
- Combine mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Prepare the steamer: Fill a steamer with water and bring it to a boil. Grease small molds lightly.
- Fill the molds: Pour the batter into the prepared molds, filling them about halfway.
- Steam the cakes: Cover the steamer and steam for about 15-20 minutes until the cakes are set and firm.
- Top and serve: Once done, remove the cakes from the molds, top with grated coconut, and enjoy your delicious Thai coconut pudding cakes!
Mango Sticky Rice Bliss
Mango sticky rice, or Khao Niew Mamuang, is a classic Thai dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and texture. The sticky rice is steamed to perfection and served alongside ripe, juicy mango slices. Drizzled with a rich coconut sauce, every bite is a delightful blend of creamy and fruity flavors. It’s a simple treat to whip up, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks.
This dessert is not just a popular Thai sweet, but also a wonderful option for special occasions, celebrations, or simply a satisfying dessert at home. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge yourself, learning how to make Thai desserts like this one adds a touch of authenticity to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice (sticky rice)
- 1 1/2 cups coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
- Sesame seeds or mung beans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Rinse the glutinous rice until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Steam the Rice: Drain the soaked rice and place it in a steamer lined with cheesecloth. Steam for about 30-40 minutes until the rice is tender and sticky.
- Make the Coconut Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, but do not let it boil.
- Combine: Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and mix in about 1 cup of the coconut sauce, letting it soak for about 30 minutes.
- Serve: Place the sticky rice on a plate, top with mango slices, and drizzle with the remaining coconut sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds or mung beans if desired.
Sticky Rice with Coconut Custard
Sticky Rice with Coconut Custard, known as ‘Khao Niew Mamuang’ in Thai, is a delightful treat that beautifully combines sweet and creamy flavors. The soft, chewy rice pairs wonderfully with a rich coconut custard, creating a dessert that feels both comforting and indulgent. This recipe is relatively simple to make and is perfect for anyone looking to explore easy Thai dessert recipes that impress.
This dessert is a dream for coconut lovers, featuring layers of sticky rice and a luscious coconut custard on top. It’s often served chilled, making it a refreshing treat after a meal or as a sweet snack. This dish not only highlights the classic flavors of Thai pandan desserts but also showcases the versatility of Thai coconut desserts. Now, let’s dive into how to make this delicious dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice
- 1 1/2 cups coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon pandan extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup palm sugar (for the filling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sticky Rice: Soak the glutinous rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and steam the rice for about 20 minutes until fully cooked.
- Make the Coconut Custard: In a mixing bowl, combine coconut milk, sugar, salt, and eggs. Whisk until smooth. If using, add in pandan extract for added flavor.
- Layer the Dessert: In a square dish, spread half of the cooked sticky rice evenly on the bottom. Pour half of the coconut custard mixture over the rice. Add a layer of palm sugar, then top with the remaining sticky rice. Pour the rest of the custard on top.
- Steam: Cover the dish with a lid or foil, and steam for 25-30 minutes until the custard is set and has a slight bounce.
- Cool and Serve: Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours. Cut into squares and enjoy your Sticky Rice with Coconut Custard!
Coconut Ice Cream in Fresh Coconuts
Coconut ice cream served in fresh coconuts is a delightful treat that captures the essence of tropical flavors. This creamy dessert balances the sweetness of coconut milk with the refreshing taste of fresh coconut, making it a perfect way to cool off on a warm day. It’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and a little patience while it freezes.
To prepare this dessert, you’ll enjoy the smooth, rich texture of the ice cream, complemented by the nutty flavor of coconut meat. You can also get creative with toppings, such as colorful sprinkles or roasted nuts. For those looking to make unique Thai dessert ideas, coconut ice cream in its natural shell is definitely a showstopper!
Ingredients
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh coconut meat (from the coconuts used for serving)
- Toppings: colorful sprinkles, roasted peanuts, or fruit
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well blended.
- Chill Mix: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
- Churn Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a creamy consistency.
- Freeze: Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Serve: Cut the fresh coconuts in half and scoop out some coconut meat. Fill the coconut shells with the coconut ice cream and add your favorite toppings.
Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Cream
Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Cream, known as ‘Bua Loy,’ is a delightful Thai dessert that perfectly balances creaminess and a hint of sweetness. These chewy tapioca pearls swim in a rich coconut milk sauce, creating a perfect treat for any occasion. The combination of the smooth coconut cream and the soft pearls makes every bite a little celebration.
This dessert is not only delicious but also quite simple to whip up at home. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that reminds you of bustling Bangkok. It’s a popular choice among Thai desserts and is especially enjoyed on special occasions, making it a great addition to your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tapioca pearls
- 4 cups coconut milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Colorful fruit or sweet toppings (like mung beans or sweet dumplings)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tapioca Pearls: In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add tapioca pearls and cook until they become translucent, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water.
- Make the Coconut Cream Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally. You can add vanilla extract for extra flavor if desired.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked tapioca pearls to the coconut cream sauce. Stir gently to combine. Serve warm or chilled, topped with colorful fruits or sweet dumplings for a playful twist.
Fried Sweet Coconut Dumplings
Fried Sweet Coconut Dumplings are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Thai desserts perfectly. These crispy pockets are filled with a rich coconut mixture, offering a sweet and slightly chewy texture. The contrast between the golden, crunchy exterior and the creamy filling makes each bite a joy. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, making them a great option for both casual snacking and special occasions.
These dumplings are among the popular Thai sweets you must try. They can be served warm with a side of sweet dipping sauce, allowing you to customize each bite to your taste. If you love coconut, this is one of the unique Thai dessert ideas that should not be missed!
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
- Oil for frying
- Sweet chili sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
- Shape the Dumplings: Take a small piece of the dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a teaspoon of grated coconut in the center and fold the dough over to seal it, shaping it into a dumpling.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat oil over medium heat for frying. Make sure there’s enough oil to submerge the dumplings.
- Fry the Dumplings: Carefully drop the dumplings into the hot oil, frying them until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Plate the dumplings and serve warm with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Pandan Flavored Layered Cake
Pandan flavored layered cake is a delightful treat often enjoyed in Thailand. Its vibrant green color comes from the pandan plant, which offers a unique, fragrant taste that many describe as a mix between vanilla and coconut. This cake is light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion, making it one of the popular Thai sweets you should try.
The layers of this cake are often separated by a smooth, creamy filling that complements the pandan flavor beautifully. It’s not overly sweet, making it a great dessert option after a savory meal. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers looking to explore traditional Thai desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup pandan juice (freshly extracted or bottled)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 6-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coconut milk and pandan juice until fully combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, layer the cakes with your favorite frosting or a simple whipped cream, and enjoy your splendid pandan flavored layered cake!
Lotus Seed and Longan Dessert Soup
This delightful dessert soup combines the sweet flavors of lotus seeds and longan, creating a comforting and soothing treat. Often enjoyed warm, this dish features a light broth that beautifully complements the textures of the ingredients. The subtle sweetness makes it a perfect end to any meal or a refreshing snack at any time of day.
Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also a great way to experience traditional Thai desserts. You’ll find the ingredients easy to source, and the cooking process straightforward, making it a great recipe for those learning how to make Thai desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lotus seeds
- 1/2 cup dried longan
- 1/4 cup rock sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 pandan leaves (optional for fragrance)
- Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Soak the lotus seeds in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Rinse and drain them before use.
- In a pot, combine the soaked lotus seeds, dried longan, water, and salt. If using pandan leaves, tie them in a knot and add them to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lotus seeds are tender.
- Add the rock sugar and stir until dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Remove from heat, discard the pandan leaves, and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm in bowls, garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Durian Sticky Rice Delight
Durian sticky rice is a delicious blend of sweet and savory that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. This dish combines the rich creaminess of coconut milk with the unique flavor of durian, creating a dessert that is both satisfying and indulgent. While durian has a strong aroma that might be off-putting to some, those who love it often find it irresistible. The sticky rice adds a delightful texture, making this dessert a truly unique experience.
Making durian sticky rice is a straightforward process, perfect for those new to Thai desserts. You’ll find that the combination of ingredients is simple, yet the result is a rich and flavorful treat that will impress your friends and family. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy traditional Thai ingredients and perfect for special occasions or when you want to try your hand at unique Thai dessert ideas.
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice
- 1 1/2 cups coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 ripe durian, flesh removed
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Soak the glutinous rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and steam the rice for about 30 minutes until cooked through.
- While the rice is steaming, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then remove from heat.
- Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and pour half of the coconut milk mixture over it. Mix well and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- To serve, place a portion of the sticky rice on a plate, top with durian flesh, and drizzle with the remaining coconut milk mixture. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Experience the Flavors of Thai Desserts
If you’re excited to try these Thai desserts or want to find local bakeries and restaurants serving authentic Thai sweets, check out our dessert directory to discover small businesses near you. Supporting local dessert shops means you can enjoy freshly made treats crafted with traditional ingredients and techniques.
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Thai desserts highlight bold flavors like coconut, pandan, and tropical fruits, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re savoring creamy mango sticky rice, cooling off with Thai iced desserts, or indulging in golden-fried delights, these sweets are sure to impress.
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At Creme Filled Churros, we’re here to inspire your next dessert journey. Try these 12 must-try Thai desserts, and let the bold, tropical flavors bring you a taste of Bangkok!