As I uncapped a bottle of coconut milk, its creamy scent wafted into the air, whisking me away to the vibrant streets of Thailand. These Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups have a way of bringing that sun-drenched joy right to your kitchen. With their irresistible gluten-free charm, they’re not just another dessert — they’re a delightful experience. Ideal for both casual gatherings and family dinners, this quick treat combines the chewy texture of sticky rice with the fresh sweetness of ripe mango. Easy to prepare and gorgeous to serve, they promise to impress everyone at your table. Who wouldn’t want to indulge in a taste of Thailand? Let’s dive in and make this tropical delight together!
Why are Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups special?
Unforgettable Flavor: The sweet coconut-infused sticky rice paired with fresh mango creates a flavor explosion that transports you straight to Thailand.
Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities, this dessert ensures everyone can enjoy its deliciousness without worry.
Effortless Presentation: Serve these in individual cups for a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests at gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these delightful Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups in no time—making it a stress-free dessert option.
Versatile Joy: Whether enjoyed as a light snack on a warm afternoon or as part of a dessert platter to accompany iced tea, this recipe is incredibly versatile.
Cultural Connection: Experience a beloved Thai street food tradition that brings a sense of celebration and joy to any meal—perfect for those warm summer days! For more refreshing ideas, check out our Avocado Strawberry Mango or the vibrant Christmas Tree Rice.
Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups Ingredients
Unlock the delightful flavors with these simple components.
For the Sticky Rice
- Glutinous Rice – This chewy rice forms the base of your Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups, delivering that satisfying texture.
- Water – Soaking and steaming the rice requires water for the perfect consistency.
For the Coconut Sauce
- Full-Fat Coconut Milk – Adds richness and creaminess; opt for full-fat for the best flavor in your dessert.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the coconut sauce; consider maple syrup for an exciting flavor twist.
- Salt – Just a pinch enhances sweetness and balances all the wonderful flavors.
For the Toppings
- Ripe Mangoes – Choose sweet, fragrant mangoes to complete your delightful Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds or Mung Beans – These optional garnishes provide added texture and flavor; coconut flakes are a great substitute for crunch.
- Fresh Mint Leaves – Use these as a finishing touch to add a burst of freshness and color.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups
Step 1: Soak the Rice
Begin by rinsing the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear, which removes excess starch. Then, soak the rinsed rice in a bowl of water for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This soaking process ensures the rice will absorb moisture and cook evenly, providing that wonderful chewy texture characteristic of Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups.
Step 2: Steam the Rice
After soaking, drain the glutinous rice and transfer it to a cheesecloth-lined steamer basket. Place the steamer over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the rice. Cover with a lid and steam for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice becomes tender and translucent. Once ready, you’ll know it’s perfect for your Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups.
Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Sauce
While the rice is steaming, combine full-fat coconut milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium-low, stirring gently until the sugar completely dissolves. Be careful not to let it boil; you want the coconut milk mixture creamy and fragrant. This luscious sauce is crucial for enhancing the flavor of your Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Sauce
Once your glutinous rice is steamed to perfection, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Pour most of the warm coconut sauce over the rice, saving a little for drizzling later. Gently mix until the rice is well-coated. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, allowing it to sit for about 15 minutes so the rice can absorb the delicious sauce, creating the ideal blend for your Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups.
Step 5: Assemble the Cups
Now it’s time to assemble your Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups! Start by portioning the sticky rice mixture into individual serving cups. Layer each serving with enticing slices of ripe mango, ensuring the vibrant color shines through. This presentation adds charm, making each cup an inviting treat for family and guests alike.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
To enhance the flavor and beauty of your Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups, drizzle the reserved coconut sauce generously over the topped mango slices. For a delightful crunch, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans. As a final touch, add a few fresh mint leaves for that extra burst of freshness and visual appeal; serve warm or at room temperature for a truly delightful experience!
Helpful Tricks for Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups
Ideal Soaking Time: Keep the rice soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure it achieves that perfect chewy texture.
Don’t Rush Steaming: Steam the rice until it’s tender; undercooking can lead to a grainy texture in your Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups.
Thicker Sauce: For a creamier coconut sauce, use full-fat coconut milk — it makes a significant difference in flavor and texture.
Fruit Selection: Choose ripe mangoes that are sweet and fragrant; unripe ones may not complement the sticky rice well.
Garnish Variations: Experiment with different garnishes like toasted coconut flakes or a sprinkle of lime zest for added flavor twists.
How to Store and Freeze Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups
Room Temperature: These Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups are best enjoyed fresh, but can be left out for about 2 hours if served at room temperature.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Ensure they are well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sticky rice (without the mango) in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To bring back the moisture, reheat leftover rice gently in the microwave with a sprinkle of water, covered with a damp paper towel, to maintain texture.
Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups Variations
Feel free to play around with these Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups to create your personalized twist on this classic treat.
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Black Sticky Rice: Swap out glutinous rice for black sticky rice for a beautiful contrast and a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind it will require longer soaking and steaming! The result is not only stunning but adds a unique depth to the dish.
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Tropical Fruit Medley: Use different tropical fruits like pineapple or kiwi instead of mango for a refreshing twist. Each option brings a new layer of flavor, making every bite exciting and irresistible.
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Coconut Alternative: Try almond or oat milk in place of coconut milk for a dairy-free version. While the taste will shift, it allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy this delightful dessert too!
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Sweetness Variation: For a richer flavor, substitute white sugar with brown sugar or honey in your coconut sauce. This will caramelize beautifully and create additional depth in sweetness.
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Spiced Coconut Sauce: Add a touch of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the coconut sauce for a warm, aromatic twist that tantalizes the palate. This little addition can transform the entire flavor profile!
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Crunchy Toppings: Instead of sesame seeds or mung beans, top your cups with crushed pistachios or chopped almonds for an exciting texture contrast. Their crunchiness pairs beautifully with the creamy rice and sweet fruit.
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Creamy Coconut Addition: Stir in a dollop of whipped cream into your coconut sauce before drizzling over the cups. It adds a delightful creaminess, elevating the indulgence factor!
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Mint Infusion: For a more vibrant flavor, chop fresh mint leaves and mix them into the sticky rice before serving. The fresh notes will brighten each bite!
Looking for more delightful recipes? Check out our Mango Tres Leches for another sweet treat or indulge in some Peanut Butter Oat Cups for a savory-sweet snack!
What to Serve with Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these delightful cups with complementary options that balance flavors and contrast textures.
- Iced Green Tea: A refreshing beverage that provides a subtle earthiness, perfectly offsetting the sweetness of the sticky rice and mango.
- Coconut Lychee Sorbet: This light, fruity sorbet mimics the tropical flavors of the dish while adding a chill factor for warm days.
- Spicy Thai Peanut Salad: A crunchy, savory salad with a hint of spice that complements the sweetness of the dessert, creating a harmonious meal.
- Fruit Salad: Combine tropical fruits like passion fruit and papaya for a vibrant, colorful side that enhances the tropical theme without overwhelming the palate.
- Lemongrass Coconut Drink: A unique, fragrant beverage that marries the flavors of coconut with an aromatic twist; it stands up well to the rich dessert.
- Cashew Cookie Bites: Crunchy and slightly savory, these cookies add an interesting texture and nutty flavor, bringing depth to your dessert platter.
- Mango Sticky Rice Spring Rolls: A playful twist, these wraps offer a fresh take on the original flavor combination, ideal as a fun finger food option.
- Minted Lime Sparkler: A refreshing drink that blends zesty lime and mint, cleansing the palate between bites of the sweet Thai treat.
- Coconut Milk Flan: For a rich finish, this creamy dessert echoes your main dish’s flavors while providing a delightful textural contrast.
Make Ahead Options
These Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups are a dream for busy home cooks! You can prepare the glutinous rice and coconut sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply soak the rice overnight, steam it up to a day ahead, and mix it with the coconut sauce—just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it from drying out. The mango slices should be added just before serving to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply portion the rice into cups, layer on the mango, drizzle with extra coconut sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds or mint leaves for a beautiful finish. Enjoy effortlessly delicious Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups with less stress!
Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups Recipe FAQs
What kind of rice should I use for Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups?
Absolutely! For this recipe, glutinous rice is the best choice due to its chewy texture, which is characteristic of authentic Thai sticky rice. If you can’t find it, sushi rice can serve as a decent substitute, although it won’t achieve the same level of chewiness.
How do I know when my mangoes are ripe?
Look for mangoes that feel slightly soft to the touch and emit a sweet, floral aroma. Their skin should be vibrant and free of dark spots. Opt for fruits at this stage to ensure your Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups are bursting with fresh flavor!
How should I store leftover Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups?
You can keep these cups for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator! Just make sure to place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. If they start to lose moisture, you can sprinkle a few drops of water before covering them during storage.
Can I freeze my Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze the sticky rice portion! Store it in an airtight container for up to 1 month without the mango. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently in the microwave with a sprinkle of water to maintain its wonderful texture.
What should I do if my rice becomes too sticky during cooking?
Very good question! If you find your rice is too sticky, try using a bit less water next time when soaking. Another tip is to make sure you’re not over-soaking it; 4 hours to overnight is ideal. If it’s already cooked and too sticky, you can gently fluff it with a fork after it has cooled a bit!
Are these Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups safe for people with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! This delightful dessert is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for loved ones with gluten sensitivities. Just double-check the labels on your coconut milk and any garnishes to ensure they meet gluten-free requirements. Enjoy worry-free!
Delightful Thai Mango Sticky Rice Cups for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak in a bowl of water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Drain the rice and place it in a cheesecloth-lined steamer basket. Steam over simmering water for about 25-30 minutes until tender and translucent.
- While the rice is steaming, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan, heating gently until the sugar dissolves.
- Transfer the cooked rice to a mixing bowl, pour most of the warm coconut sauce over it, and gently mix. Let it sit covered for about 15 minutes.
- Portion the sticky rice mixture into individual cups, layering with slices of ripe mango.
- Drizzle with reserved coconut sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds or mung beans, and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
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