The Best Thai Baked Desserts for Summer

When the temperature rises, nothing beats enjoying refreshing desserts that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide a delightful taste of Thailand. Thai baked desserts are renowned for their unique flavors and textural contrasts, making them perfect for summer gatherings or a refreshing treat on hot days. Below are some of the best Thai baked desserts to enjoy when the sun is shining.

1. Khanom Mo Kaeng

Khanom Mo Kaeng is a traditional Thai baked custard made from creamy coconut milk, eggs, and rice flour. This dessert is typically steamed or baked in small cups, resulting in a soft and slightly chewy texture. The aroma of coconut and pandan leaves makes this dish a true tropical delight. Enjoy it warm or chilled for a refreshing summer treat.

2. Coconut Sticky Rice Cake (Khanom Krok)

Coconut Sticky Rice Cake, or Khanom Krok, is a popular street food that has made its way into home kitchens. These small, round treats are made from rice flour and coconut milk, giving them a rich and creamy flavor. They are cooked in special pans filled with small round molds, resulting in a crisp outer layer and a soft interior. Perfectly bite-sized, they are ideal for summer snacking.

3. Thai Banana Bread

Thai Banana Bread is a moist and flavorful dessert that showcases ripe bananas and sometimes incorporates coconut cream, adding a hint of tropical flavor. This easy-to-make bread is a great way to utilize overripe bananas, and it pairs beautifully with a scoop of coconut ice cream for a refreshing summer pairing.

4. Lemongrass and Coconut Cake

This unique cake combines the aromatic flavor of lemongrass with the richness of coconut. The light and fluffy texture, along with the refreshing zest of lemongrass, makes it a delightful dessert for summer. Topped with a coconut glaze, this cake is not only visually appealing but also extraordinarily aromatic.

5. Coconut Layer Cake (Khanom Chan)

Khanom Chan is a beautiful, multi-layered dessert made with rice flour, pandan juice, and coconut milk. The layers are steamed, leading to a chewy consistency that melts in your mouth. This colorful dessert showcases vibrant green and white stripes and is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. It’s often enjoyed chilled, making it perfect for those hot summer days.

6. Pineapple Coconut Tart

This tropical tart features a buttery crust filled with a luscious mixture of fresh pineapple and coconut cream. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the rich coconut flavor, resulting in a well-balanced dessert. Serve it chilled for a refreshing twist that’s perfect for summer picnics or barbecues.

7. Thai Mung Bean Cakes (Khanom Tuan)

Khanom Tuan are steamed cakes made from mung bean flour, coconut cream, and sugar. These delightful little cakes are steamed in small cups, resulting in a soft and slightly sweet treat. They are often served with a drizzle of coconut cream on top, adding an indulgent richness that complements the light mung bean flavor. Enjoy them chilled for a refreshing snack.

In conclusion, Thai baked desserts add an exotic twist to the summer dessert scene. With their unique flavors, vibrant colors, and delightful textures, these sweet treats are sure to impress your friends and family. Try making one or all of these desserts this summer and bring a taste of Thailand to your table.