Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits are a show-stopping yet easy-to-make dessert that brings all the vibrant, tropical flavors of a Thai classic straight to your table in the cutest individual portions. Think fluffy, delicately sweet sticky rice, rich coconut cream, and juicy ripe mangoes stacked together for the ultimate taste and texture in every bite. It’s as fun to assemble as it is to eat, and whether you’re treating yourself on a warm afternoon or delighting guests at your next gathering, these parfaits deliver sunshine in a glass. If you love a no-fuss dessert with a wow-factor, this is your new must-try!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the joys of Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits is how a handful of humble, natural ingredients transform into something extraordinary. Each element plays an important role, so you’ll want to pick the freshest and best you can find for perfect flavor and brilliant color in every spoonful.
- Cooked Sticky Rice: The heart of this parfait – chewy and satisfying, sticky rice (or sushi rice) soaks up the coconut milk beautifully.
- Coconut Milk: Creamy and luscious, coconut milk gives the dish its signature richness and fragrant tropical aroma.
- Sugar: Just enough sweetness to highlight the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Salt: A touch of salt enhances all the other ingredients and keeps the dessert from being cloying.
- Ripe Mango: The star fruit! Choose a mango that’s fragrant and slightly soft for the juiciest, most flavorful cubes.
- Optional Toppings: Toasted sesame seeds, shredded coconut, and mint leaves add extra crunch, scent, and color—don’t skip for a party presentation!
How to Make Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Mixture
Begin by gently heating your coconut milk in a small saucepan with sugar and a pinch of salt, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. Let the mixture cool slightly so it won’t melt the mango or rice when you assemble. This step infuses your sticky rice with all the rich, coconuty warmth that defines Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits.
Step 2: Assemble the Parfaits
Here’s where the magic (and fun) happens! In each glass or jar, spoon in a layer of sticky rice, top with juicy diced mango, then generously drizzle with the cooled, sweetened coconut milk. Feel free to repeat the layers for more drama—the alternating colors and textures are a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Step 3: Add Toppings
This is your chance to make each parfait truly special. Sprinkle the tops with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch, shower with shredded coconut for extra richness, or tuck in a few mint leaves for a fresh, bright finish. These toppings make Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits feel celebratory and inviting—almost too pretty to eat!
Step 4: Serve or Chill
If you can wait, cover and chill your parfaits for 15 to 30 minutes so everything melds perfectly and the dessert is refreshing. But don’t worry if you’re too tempted—Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits taste incredible right away, too!
How to Serve Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits
Garnishes
When it comes to finishing touches, a little goes a long way. Scatter toasted sesame seeds and shredded coconut for a layered look and an extra pop of flavor. Fresh mint leaves not only look gorgeous but also lend a cool note to complement the sweet mango, making your parfaits truly irresistible.
Side Dishes
These parfaits are excellent all on their own, but if you want to make them part of a larger spread, serve with fresh tropical fruit (like pineapple or lychee), or a tray of coconut shortbread cookies for crunch. Light, floral teas such as jasmine or lemongrass are also fabulous sippers alongside Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try pairing mini glasses on a wooden board strewn with edible flowers or mango slices for a wow-worthy centerpiece. Or, for a picnic or potluck, assemble parfaits in jars with lids for grab-and-go treats. Even in the most casual setting, Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits covered in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to two days, though the rice may soften further and the mango may release some extra juice. Always use airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent the rice from drying out.
Freezing
While sticky rice freezes fairly well, mango tends to get mushy after thawing, so freezing assembled parfaits isn’t ideal. However, you can freeze portions of cooked sticky rice and defrost when ready to assemble fresh parfaits—just warm the rice a bit and let it cool before layering.
Reheating
If your parfaits have been chilled and you want to serve them at room temperature, simply leave them out for 20 to 30 minutes before serving. For leftover sticky rice stored separately, you can gently reheat it in the microwave with a splash of coconut milk, then let cool before layering with mango and coconut cream as usual.
FAQs
Can I use regular rice instead of sticky or sushi rice?
Sticky or sushi rice has that wonderfully chewy, cohesive texture that makes Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits so delightful. Regular long-grain or jasmine rice will be much looser and won’t have quite the same appeal, but if you don’t mind a softer texture, feel free to experiment!
What’s the best type of coconut milk to use?
Look for full-fat canned coconut milk for the richest flavor and creamiest texture. Light coconut milk may work in a pinch, but your parfaits won’t have that lush, decadent feel that makes this dessert so beloved.
Can I make Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the parfaits a few hours in advance and chill them in the fridge—they’re a fantastic make-ahead dessert for parties or picnics. Just add fresh garnishes right before serving to keep everything vibrant.
What if I can’t find fresh mango?
Frozen mango works well—just thaw and drain any excess liquid before dicing and layering. In a pinch, well-drained canned mango can be used, though it tends to be a bit softer and sweeter than fresh or frozen fruit.
How can I make Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits vegan or dairy-free?
This dish is naturally dairy-free thanks to coconut milk, and traditional sticky rice is usually just rice and water—so there’s no need for substitutes! Just double-check your sugar if you want to ensure it’s vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a sunny, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels both indulgent and wholesome, Mango Sticky Rice Parfaits are the answer. They’re a joy to create, bursting with color and contrasts in every spoonful, and sure to win hearts at any gathering. Give this recipe a try and let it whisk you away to tropical bliss—one creamy, dreamy layer at a time!