Mango Sticky Rice

A naturally sweet, gluten-free dessert that’s sticky, creamy, and perfect for summer. Made with coconut milk, ripe mango, and chewy glutinous rice, this classic Thai-inspired recipe is easy to make and dairy-free optional.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gluten-free + dairy-free optional

• Made with pantry staples

• Naturally sweetened (use coconut sugar or maple syrup)

• Perfect make-ahead dessert

• Creamy, chewy, and comforting — with fresh tropical vibes
  

Ingredients

For the Sticky Rice:

• 1 cup glutinous rice (also called sweet rice)

• 1 ½ cups full-fat coconut milk (canned)

• ¼ cup coconut sugar (or maple syrup, or white sugar)

• ½ tsp salt

For Serving:

• 1–2 ripe mangoes, sliced

• 2 tbsp coconut cream (optional for extra drizzle)

• Toasted sesame seeds or mung beans (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Rinse & Soak the Rice: Rinse glutinous rice in cool water until the water runs mostly clear. Soak for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

2. Steam the Rice: Place soaked rice in a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth or parchment. Steam for 20–25 minutes until soft and sticky. (No steamer? Use a rice cooker or Instant Pot if you’re familiar with your settings.)

3. Make the Coconut Sauce: In a saucepan, heat coconut milk, coconut sugar, and salt over medium heat until dissolved. Do not boil. Once smooth, remove from heat.

4. Combine: In a bowl, mix hot sticky rice with ¾ of the coconut sauce. Stir gently, then cover and let sit for 20–30 minutes so the rice absorbs the coconut flavor.

5. Serve: Scoop rice onto a plate or shallow bowl, top with sliced mango, and drizzle the rest of the coconut sauce or coconut cream. Sprinkle sesame seeds or mung beans for crunch.

Helpful Tips

• Use Ataulfo or Champagne mangoes — they’re sweeter and less stringy.

• Only use glutinous/sweet rice — not jasmine or basmati.

• Want less sugar? Use maple syrup or monk fruit sweetener.

Substitutions

• No glutinous rice? Try sushi rice (texture won’t be quite the same but still sticky)

• No coconut cream? Use extra coconut milk

• Want protein? Stir in 1 tbsp unflavored collagen or vanilla protein powder into the coconut sauce before mixing