As I pulled my first batch of Mango Sticky Rice Cookies from the oven, the sweet scent of coconut and ripe mango enveloped my kitchen like a tropical breeze. These little gems are the perfect fusion of sweet, chewy stickiness from traditional Thai desserts wrapped up in a delightful cookie form. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they are also a crowd-pleaser for both family gatherings and quiet nights in. Imagine serving these to friends, who’ll surely be amazed by the unexpected twist of flavors! Ready for a taste of the tropics? Let’s get baking!
Why Are Mango Sticky Rice Cookies a Must-Try?
Tropical Escape: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with every bite of these delightful cookies.
Effortlessly Easy: This simple recipe makes it accessible for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen.
Irresistible Fusion: Enjoy the harmonious blend of familiar cookie crunch and the unique flavors of Thai-inspired sticky rice and mango.
Crowd-Winning Comfort: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, they’re guaranteed to impress your family and friends, just like my Coffee Butter Cookies.
Versatile Twist: Feel free to play with toppings or mix-ins, such as black sesame seeds or coconut flakes, for an even more personal touch!
Quick Prep: With a little under an hour in total, you’ll have a batch of these tropical delights ready to enjoy.
Mango Sticky Rice Cookies Ingredients
For the Mango Jam
• Frozen Mangoes – Provides sweetness and fruity flavor for the jam; substitutable with fresh mangoes for improved freshness.
• White Sugar – Adds sweetness to the mango jam; can be replaced with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
For the Sticky Rice
• Sweet Rice – Essential for the chewy texture of sticky rice; unprocessed ensures optimal cooking.
• Coconut Milk – Contributes creaminess to the sticky rice; substitute with coconut cream for a richer flavor.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds sweetness and creaminess; can be replaced with more coconut milk for a lighter option.
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Gives the cookie dough its rich flavor and tender texture; use dairy-free butter for a vegan alternative.
• Light Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
• White Sugar – Further enhances sweetness and contributes to the texture.
• Egg Yolk – Helps bind the cookie dough and adds richness; use a flax egg for a vegan variation.
• Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic flavor.
• Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise; ensure freshness for best results.
• Salt – Balances the sugar and enhances overall flavor profile.
• Reserved Coconut Cream – Reinforces coconut flavor in the dough, ensuring a cohesive taste throughout.
• All-Purpose Flour – The structural component of cookies; do not overmix to maintain chewiness.
For Toppings
• Flaky Sea Salt – Optional finishing touch for flavor contrast.
• Black Sesame Seeds – Optional topping for added texture and visual appeal; provide an essence of the exotic in your Mango Sticky Rice Cookies.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Sticky Rice Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Mango Jam
Begin by heating frozen mangoes in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft. Once softened, mash the mangoes with white sugar until well combined and smooth, then transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate until it thickens to a jam-like consistency, approximately 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook Sticky Rice
Soak sweet rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight to achieve the perfect texture. After soaking, drain the rice and steam it in a bamboo steamer lined with cheesecloth for about 20-25 minutes until it is tender yet slightly underdone. Stir in coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk until the rice absorbs the creamy liquids, then set aside some for mixing into the dough.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and reserved coconut cream, mixing until smooth. Gradually fold in baking soda, salt, and all-purpose flour until just combined, then chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for easier handling.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop portions of the chilled dough onto the sheet, creating small mounds. Make a shallow indentation to dollop a spoonful of sticky rice and mango jam into each cookie, then optionally sprinkle with black sesame seeds for extra flavor. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly puffed.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Once baked, remove the Mango Sticky Rice Cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy a delightful tropical experience with each chewy bite, perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Mango Sticky Rice Cookies Variations
Feel free to transform your Mango Sticky Rice Cookies with these delightful twists that will awaken your taste buds even further!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter for a delicious dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- Richer Coconut: Swap coconut milk for coconut cream in the sticky rice for a decadently richer texture.
- Flavor Twist: Try using almond or coconut extract instead of vanilla for an exciting new flavor profile that complements the tropical theme beautifully.
- Fruity Surprise: Add chopped dried fruits like pineapple or raisins in the cookie dough for an unexpected burst of sweetness.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over baked cookies for a delightful contrast to the tropical flavors.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped macadamia nuts or cashews into the dough for an added crunch that brings texture and flavor.
- Coconut Flakes: Replace black sesame seeds with lightly toasted coconut flakes for added crunch and a real tropical touch.
Get creative! Each of these variations can elevate your tropical treat further, just as I do with my Coffee Butter Cookies or Pistachio Shortbread Cookies. Enjoy the magic of customizing these tropical delights!
Make Ahead Options
These Mango Sticky Rice Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the mango jam up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerating it until ready to use. Additionally, the sticky rice can be cooked and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it in an airtight container to maintain its chewy texture. When you’re ready to bake, combine the prepared sticky rice with the cookie dough and proceed with baking as instructed. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy the delightful tropical flavors of these cookies with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Mango Sticky Rice Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just a quick reheat in the microwave will make them feel freshly baked.
Freezer: Freeze cookies layered between parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly before enjoying.
Reheating: To revive their delightful tropical taste, gently warm your Mango Sticky Rice Cookies in the microwave for a few seconds. They’ll be ready to savor again!
Expert Tips for Mango Sticky Rice Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes to ensure the cookies maintain their shape while baking and achieve that chewy texture.
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Mind the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should look slightly puffed and golden-brown around the edges when ready to prevent over-baking.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough only until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, so be gentle!
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Customize Your Jam: Feel free to adjust the ratio of mango jam to sticky rice in each cookie to create exciting variations and textures while maintaining the core flavors of Mango Sticky Rice Cookies.
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Serve Warm: These cookies are best served warm, so consider reheating them in the microwave for a few seconds after storing for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
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Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness, and remember they can be refrigerated for a few days or frozen for longer storage.
What to Serve with Mango Sticky Rice Cookies?
Delight in a tropical feast by pairing these cookies with complementary flavors and textures that enhance their chewy goodness.
- Coconut Milk Latte: A warm cup of rich coconut milk latte perfectly balances the sweet, fruity flavors and creamy texture of the cookies.
- Green Tea: The subtle earthiness of green tea provides a refreshing contrast, enhancing the sweetness of the mango without overwhelming the palate.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of pineapple, kiwi, and passionfruit adds a zesty counterpart to the cookie’s rich coconut and mango flavors.
- Chilled Mango Smoothie: For a double dose of tropical bliss, enjoy the cookies with a refreshing mango smoothie, making for a delightful dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a lovely contrast between the warm cookies and cold sweetness, elevating the dessert to a new level.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkling lightly toasted coconut over the cookies adds an extra crunch that ties beautifully to their coconut and mango essence.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream can accompany the cookies, inviting a luscious texture alongside the chewy bites.
- Ginger Tea: The warmth of ginger tea introduces a spicy note that complements the sweet coconut and mango, creating an aromatic pairing.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For those who love a sweet twist, a drizzle of melted chocolate over the cookies offers a rich and delectable contrast.
- Small Fruit Tart: A mini fruit tart made with seasonal fruits enhances the tropical theme while offering an elegant touch to your dessert spread.
Mango Sticky Rice Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe mangoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting mangoes, look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch, giving a little under gentle pressure, which signifies ripeness. They should also have a sweet fragrance at the stem end. Avoid any mangoes with dark spots or excessive blemishes, as they may be overripe.
How do I store Mango Sticky Rice Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 3 days. If you plan to enjoy them later, layer the cookies with parchment paper and place them in an airtight container, where they can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Mango Sticky Rice Cookies?
Very! To freeze, first ensure the cookies are completely cooled. Then, layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag, which prevents them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their chewy texture.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough is excessively sticky, try chilling it a bit longer—30 minutes usually does the trick. If it’s still clinging to your hands, you can sprinkle a little extra flour while mixing, but be cautious to avoid overmixing. Your goal is just a cohesive dough without turning it dense.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary allergies?
Absolutely! You can make this recipe more inclusive for different diets. For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and coconut cream instead of dairy. If you’re egg-free, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) can substitute for the egg yolk. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially in the sweetener and flour used.
How can I enhance the flavors of these cookies?
You might consider experimenting! Adding a pinch of citrus zest—lime or lemon—can elevate the tropical flavor profile beautifully. Alternatively, try drizzling the finished cookies with dark chocolate for a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the mango and coconut.
Mango Sticky Rice Cookies: A Taste of Tropical Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Mango Jam: Heat frozen mangoes in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Mash with white sugar until smooth, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Cook Sticky Rice: Soak sweet rice in water for 4 hours or overnight. Drain and steam in a bamboo steamer for 20-25 minutes. Stir in coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Cream together unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolk, vanilla extract, and reserved coconut cream. Fold in baking soda, salt, and flour, then chill for 30 minutes.
- Assemble & Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop chilled dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, make indents, and add sticky rice and mango jam. Bake for 13-15 minutes.
- Cool & Serve: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
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