Thailand is renowned for its incredible food, but desserts often take a backseat in the culinary spotlight. However, despite not having a vast array of desserts, the country more than makes up for it with some irresistible sweet treats. As someone who is more inclined to enjoy savory dishes, I have always preferred indulging in a second (or even third) main course instead of a typical dessert. But in Thailand, I found that the sweet offerings, often sold by street vendors and in local markets, are worth experiencing. While traditional desserts may be limited, the variety of sweet snacks in Thailand is plentiful and absolutely delightful. Let me share some of my favorite sweet treats that have become a part of my food adventures in this vibrant country.
1. Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)
Arguably the most iconic dessert in Thailand, Mango Sticky Rice is a must-try for anyone visiting. The dish consists of sticky rice cooked in coconut milk, sugar, and salt, giving it a rich and creamy base. Fresh slices of mango are placed on top, then drizzled with coconut syrup and sprinkled with toasted mung beans. The result is a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. You can usually find this treat at food courts or on the streets for about 40 Baht, making it an affordable and unforgettable treat.
2. Durian (Durian)
Known as the “King of Fruit,” Durian is not for the faint of heart. While its pungent smell often deters people, the taste is actually quite sweet and creamy. Durian can be eaten on its own, but it’s also commonly paired with sticky rice to create Durian Sticky Rice – a mixture of coconut milk, sugar, salt, and sticky rice. If you’re in Thailand, it’s worth trying this unique fruit, especially since it’s hard to find outside Southeast Asia. A kilo of fresh durian typically costs around 400 Baht.
3. Sweet Sticky Rice (Khao Niao Wan)
Sticky rice is a staple in Thai desserts, and there are countless variations to enjoy. Street food vendors often prepare it with different fillings like banana, sweet potato, or black beans, all flavored with coconut milk, salt, and sugar. One popular method of cooking involves placing the rice inside bamboo stalks (Khao Lam) or wrapping it in banana leaves (Khao Tom Mud). These treats are affordable, with a serving of sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves costing about 20 Baht.
4. Sweet Mini Crepes (Khanom Bueang)
These miniature Thai crepes are a fun and colorful dessert often seen at food markets. Made from rice flour, these little crepes are filled with coconut cream and topped with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients. Common fillings include raisins, fried coconut, or the sweet egg threads called foi thong. The vibrant colors and unique flavor combinations make Khanom Bueang a delightful snack, and a bag of five typically costs 20 Baht.
5. Banana Fritters (Kuay Tod)
Deep-fried and deliciously chewy, Thai banana fritters are made from local plantains, which are short and stout bananas often used for elephant feeding. The batter, which includes coconut flesh, palm sugar, and sesame seeds, creates a crispy and satisfying snack. These fritters are popular street food, especially in Northern Thailand, and can even be found sold by vendors driving through traffic. Expect to pay around 20 Baht for a small bag of these sweet treats.
6. Coconut Ice Cream (Itim Kati)
Coconut ice cream is a refreshing dessert perfect for Thailand’s warm climate. Served in a coconut shell, this ice cream is topped with fresh coconut flesh and a variety of optional toppings like nuts, fruit, mung beans, or even sweetcorn. There are two main varieties: young coconut ice cream, which is sweeter, and roasted coconut ice cream, which has been chargrilled for a smoky flavor. These treats usually cost around 30 Baht.
7. Shaved Ice Dessert (Nam Keng Sai)
A popular Thai dessert that offers endless customization, shaved ice is topped with a variety of ingredients to create a cool, sweet treat. The plain ice serves as a base, and you can add fruit, beans, nuts, and glutinous blobs to create your perfect combination. One of my personal favorites is Dao Tung, a shaved ice dessert served with sugarcane syrup, red beans, barley, and longan. These desserts can be found in food courts, and the price typically ranges around 20 Baht.
8. Banana Pancakes (Roti Kuay)
Banana pancakes are a beloved street food in Thailand, often prepared by Muslim vendors in the southern regions. These crepe-like pancakes are filled with bananas, sugar, and condensed milk, creating a sweet and indulgent treat. They are often served in the evening at street corners, and each pancake costs about 25 Baht. It’s hard to resist the warm, chewy texture of this treat, making it a guilty pleasure for many.
9. Sesame Balls in Ginger Syrup (Bua Loy Nam Khing)
This Chinese-inspired Thai dessert is commonly found in Chinatown areas, especially in Bangkok. The dessert consists of chewy glutinous rice flour balls (Tang Yuan) filled with sweet bean paste, served in a spicy ginger syrup. The heat from the ginger adds a bold kick to the sweetness of the sesame balls. A bowl of this dessert will cost you around 30 Baht and is perfect for anyone looking for a sweet, yet spicy treat.
10. Thai Donuts (Pa Thong Ko)
Pa Thong Ko, or Thai donuts, are a favorite breakfast snack, often deep-fried on street corners in the early morning. These donuts are made from flour, yeast, and sugar, and are typically served with soy milk, sweet custard, or condensed milk. They’re delicious when dipped in coffee, making them a great way to start the day. A serving of these donuts will cost around 20 Baht.
In Thailand, sweet treats are an essential part of the local food culture. While traditional desserts might be limited, the abundance of street snacks and local delicacies ensures there’s always something new to try. Whether you’re looking for something refreshing like coconut ice cream or craving a warm banana pancake, Thailand’s sweet treats are bound to satisfy your cravings.
