The Most Exotic Thai Desserts You Should Try

Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and beautifully presented dishes, but the world of Thai desserts is equally captivating. With a blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic ingredients, Thai sweets are a delightful culmination of culinary artistry. Here are some of the most exotic Thai desserts you should definitely try.

Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)
One of the most famous Thai desserts, Mango Sticky Rice consists of glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk, served with ripe mango slices. The combination of the sweet, creamy coconut sauce paired with the fragrant mango gives this dish an irresistible appeal. It’s often garnished with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans for an extra crunch.

Durian Sticky Rice
For the adventurous sweet tooth, Durian Sticky Rice is a must-try. Known as the "king of fruits," durian has a strong aroma that divides opinions. When combined with sticky rice and creamy coconut milk, it transforms into a rich dessert that durian lovers rave about. It’s a unique experience that you won’t find just anywhere.

Thai Coconut Pudding (Khanom Krok)
Khanom Krok is a popular street food dessert made of rice flour and coconut milk. These small, round puddings are cooked in a special cast-iron pan, creating a crispy outer layer while remaining soft and creamy inside. They are typically topped with sweet or savory ingredients, such as corn or green onions, making them an excellent snack for any time of the day.

Banana in Coconut Milk (Kluay Buad Chee)
This comforting dessert features ripe bananas simmered in a sweet coconut milk sauce. Enhanced with a pinch of salt, this dish highlights the bananas' natural sweetness, creating a fantastic balance of flavors. It’s simple yet undeniably delicious, making it a favorite among locals.

Tarod Cake (Khanom Mur)
Tarod Cake is a traditional Thai dessert made from steamed taro root and coconut milk. This moist cake is naturally sweet and can be enjoyed warm or cold. Its purple hue and delightful texture make it a visual treat as well as a delicious one, perfect for those looking to experience a unique taste of Thai culture.

Sweet Sticky Rice with Pineapple (Khao Niew Sapparod)
This dessert beautifully combines the sweetness of sticky rice with the tropical flavor of pineapple. The rice is cooked with coconut milk and sugar, then paired with fresh pineapple for a refreshing and satisfying end to any meal. It’s a perfect summer dessert that embodies the essence of tropical Thailand.

Rosette Cookies (Khanom Buang)
These crispy rice flour pancakes are filled with a mixture of coconut cream and sweet fillings like mung bean paste or shredded coconut. They are then folded and served as a delightful finger food. The delicate texture and captivating presentation make Khanom Buang both a treat for the palate and the eyes.

Floating Boat (Khanom Thang Taek)
A lesser-known dessert, Floating Boat consists of a light, crunchy layer made from rice flour, filled with a sweet coconut cream. The dessert is steamed and has a unique texture that is both chewy and soft, creating a unique dining experience. It's loved for its playful presentation and delightful taste.

Black Sesame Balls (Bua Loy)
These chewy rice flour balls are filled with black sesame paste and served in a warm coconut milk soup. The contrast of the warm, sweet soup with the nutty flavor of black sesame creates an irresistible treat that is both comforting and satisfying.

Exploring the realm of Thai desserts offers a treasure trove of flavors and textures that truly reflect the country's rich culinary tradition. From the mouthwatering Sticky Rice with Mango to the adventurous Durian Sticky Rice, each dish is an experience in itself. When in Thailand, or at a Thai restaurant, don’t miss the opportunity to savor these exotic delicacies.