There’s a special kind of joy that comes from the kitchen when you try your hand at something new, and that’s exactly what I felt when I first encountered the concept of Mango Sticky Rice Cookies. Imagine the captivating aroma of coconut mingling with the bright scent of ripe mango, all while you take a break from fast food and dive into the comforting world of homemade desserts. These cookies are not just a treat; they are a delightful fusion inspired by the beloved Thai dessert that plays with textures and flavors in every bite.
The magic lies in the chewy chunks of coconut sticky rice and the luscious swirls of mango jam, transforming each cookie into a miniature culinary adventure. Whether you’re an experienced baker looking to broaden your horizons or someone eager to impress at your next gathering, this recipe promises a delicious result that balances the sweetness of coconut with the refreshing zing of mango. Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s create something extraordinary together!
Why are Mango Sticky Rice Cookies unforgettable?
Uniquely Tropical Flavors: The blend of coconut and mango makes these cookies a feast for the senses, offering a sweet escape from ordinary desserts.
Chewy Delight: With a chewy texture thanks to the sticky rice, every bite delivers a delightful surprise!
Cultural Inspiration: Bringing the beloved Thai dessert to the cookie realm, these treats bridge cultural flavors beautifully.
Impressive & Fun: Ideal for bakers wanting to showcase creativity, they’re perfect for impressing friends and family at gatherings.
Time-Saving Prep: You can make the mango jam and sticky rice ahead of time, simplifying your baking experience.
For a more comprehensive guide on making unique treats, check out our related post on mastering homemade desserts.
Mango Sticky Rice Cookies Ingredients
For the Mango Jam
• Frozen mangoes – Key ingredient providing natural sweetness; fresh mangoes work just as well for this tropical delight.
• White sugar – Adds sweetness to the jam; consider using honey or maple syrup for a different taste.
For the Sticky Rice
• Sweet rice – Essential for the iconic chewy texture; ensure you use sweet rice for the best results.
• Coconut milk – Contributes richness; for a thicker texture, substitute with coconut cream.
• Sweetened condensed milk – Enhances creaminess and sweetness; omit for a dairy-free version and use more coconut cream instead.
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness to your cookies; use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
• Light brown sugar & white sugar – These sugars create balanced sweetness and a moist interior; adjust according to your taste.
• Egg yolk + thick white – Essential for structure and moisture; keep the thick white for additional hydration.
• Vanilla extract – Elevates flavor notes; feel free to swap it for almond extract for a unique twist.
• Baking soda – A leavening agent that ensures your cookies rise properly.
• Salt – A crucial ingredient that enhances and balances the overall flavors.
• Reserved coconut cream – For an extra coconut kick in your cookie base, use this from sticky rice prep.
• All-purpose flour – The foundation of your cookies; can be substituted with gluten-free flour, adjusting liquid as necessary.
For Topping
• Flaky sea salt – A sprinkle adds a nice contrast to the sweetness; don’t skip this step!
• Black sesame seeds – Visual appeal and a hint of nutty flavor; feel free to get creative with other toppings, like crushed nuts!
With these ingredients in hand, you’re just a few steps away from crafting your very own Mango Sticky Rice Cookies! Let’s dive into the deliciousness together!
How to Make Mango Sticky Rice Cookies
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Prepare the Mango Jam: In a medium pot, cook the frozen mangoes over medium heat until softened, then mash them with a fork. Stir in the white sugar and cook until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Cool completely and refrigerate.
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Make the Sticky Rice: Rinse the sweet rice under cold water, then soak it in hot water for 20 minutes. Drain and place it in a steamer lined with cheesecloth, steaming until slightly underdone, approximately 20-25 minutes. Once ready, mix it with the heated coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk until fully coated and moist.
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Create the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and reserved coconut cream. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, and salt) until just combined. Cover and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for easier handling.
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Assemble Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, scoop out portions of the cookie dough. Press a dollop of mango jam and a teaspoon of coconut sticky rice onto each scoop, gently swirling them into the dough.
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Bake & Finish: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Add black sesame seeds halfway through the baking time for added flavor. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, sprinkle tops with flaky sea salt before serving.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of coconut ice cream for an extra tropical treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options
These Mango Sticky Rice Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the mango jam and coconut sticky rice up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to meld while keeping your baking day hassle-free. Simply make the jam by cooking the mangoes and refrigerate, while the sticky rice can be steamed and mixed with coconut milk and condensed milk, then stored in an airtight container. On the day you plan to bake, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes, then assemble and bake as directed. This method ensures you’ll have fresh, delicious cookies without the stress, so you can enjoy your time in the kitchen!
Expert Tips for Mango Sticky Rice Cookies
- Rice Selection: Use sweet rice rather than regular rice to achieve that signature chewy texture; this is crucial for success!
- Perfecting the Jam: When making mango jam, allow it to cool completely before using. It thickens as it cools, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Chill the Dough: Do not skip chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes; it makes it easier to handle and helps prevent spreading during baking.
- Balancing Tastes: Keep an eye on the sweetness by adjusting the sugar levels; a perfect balance will enhance the flavors of your cookies.
- Baking Time: Watch the cookies closely during the last few minutes in the oven; they should have golden edges while staying soft in the center for the best result.
- Storage Tips: These Mango Sticky Rice Cookies are best enjoyed fresh. Store extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for optimal freshness.
What to Serve with Mango Sticky Rice Cookies?
Looking to create the perfect meal experience to accompany your delightful cookies? Let’s explore some amazing pairings that enhance their tropical sweetness.
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Coconut Ice Cream: This creamy treat melts perfectly alongside the cookies, adding a refreshing contrast to the chewy texture and enhancing the coconut flavor.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh fruits like pineapple, mango, and kiwi offers a bright and zesty complement that brightens each bite of the cookies.
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Thai Iced Tea: The sweet, creamy notes of this classic drink harmonize beautifully with the flavors of coconut and mango, making it a perfect pairing.
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Matcha Green Tea: This earthy and slightly bitter tea creates a delightful balance with the sweetness of the cookies, inviting a harmonious blending of flavors.
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Mango Sorbet: For an extra burst of mango flavor, serve with this refreshing treat, which lightens the palate and adds a smooth texture to the experience.
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Chilled Coconut Water: This option adds a hydrating, tropical touch that enhances the coconut profiles of the cookies, making them even more refreshing.
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Lemonade: Bright and tangy lemonade cuts through the sweetness of the cookies, providing a refreshing and thirst-quenching counterbalance.
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Almond Biscotti: This nutty, crunchy cookie offers a delightful contrast to the chewiness of the mango sticky rice cookies, adding texture variety to your dessert table.
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Coconut Panna Cotta: This smooth and subtly sweet dessert echoes the flavors of your cookies while offering a creamy contrast that will impress your guests.
Elevate your baking celebration by pairing these ideas with Mango Sticky Rice Cookies for a delightful feast your loved ones will adore!
Mango Sticky Rice Cookies Variations
Customize your delicious treat with these fun twists that will excite your taste buds and make each batch uniquely yours!
- Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter with plant-based butter and use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk for a delightful alternative.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped macadamia or cashew nuts to the dough for an extra crunchy texture that complements the chewy rice.
- Fresh Mango: Use fresh mangoes in place of frozen to create a vibrant and naturally sweet mango jam, perfect for summer treats.
- Almond Flavor: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for an aromatic flavor that adds a lovely depth to your cookies.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dough for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Coconut Flakes: Fold in sweetened shredded coconut into the dough for an extra chew and to amplify that tropical essence!
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the tops for an indulgent touch that pairs wonderfully with mango and coconut.
- Zesty Lime: Add lime zest into the cookie dough for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the overall flavor profile of your cookies.
With these variations, let your creativity shine as you explore new flavors and textures in your Mango Sticky Rice Cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Mango Sticky Rice Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep these delicious cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days; simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for that just-baked warmth.
Freezer: To enjoy these cookies later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To bring back their delightful chewiness, heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat!

Mango Sticky Rice Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know when my mangoes are ripe?
Absolutely! Ripe mangoes should have a slight give when gently squeezed and emit a sweet aroma at the stem end. Look for a vibrant color with no dark spots all over; if they are too hard, give them a couple of days at room temperature to ripen.
How should I store leftover cookies?
For short-term storage, keep your Mango Sticky Rice Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for that freshly baked warmth!
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Can I freeze these cookies, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Mango Sticky Rice Cookies, start by cooling them completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a zip-top freezer bag, where they can be kept for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Why did my cookies turn out dry?
Very! If your cookies are dry, it may be due to overmixing the dough or adding too much flour. Be sure to measure accurately and mix until just combined. Also, ensure that you monitor the baking time; cookies should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the unsalted butter with plant-based butter and omit the sweetened condensed milk or replace it with additional coconut cream for added creaminess. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors while keeping it dairy-free!
Are there any allergens I should consider for this recipe?
Definitely! These Mango Sticky Rice Cookies contain gluten (from the all-purpose flour) and dairy. You can substitute with gluten-free flour, making necessary adjustments for the liquid. If anyone is allergic to coconut, be cautious, as coconut milk and flakes are primary ingredients. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety for those with allergies.
These easy-to-follow Mango Sticky Rice Cookies Recipe FAQs should help you enjoy your culinary adventure with confidence!

Mango Sticky Rice Cookies: A Chewy Tropical Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium pot, cook the frozen mangoes over medium heat until softened, then mash them with a fork. Stir in the white sugar and cook until thickened, about 10-15 minutes. Cool completely and refrigerate.
- Rinse the sweet rice under cold water, soak in hot water for 20 minutes, drain and steam until underdone, about 20-25 minutes. Mix with heated coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk.
- In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and reserved coconut cream. Mix in flour, baking soda, and salt until combined. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop cookie dough onto a baking sheet, press mango jam and coconut sticky rice onto each scoop, swirling them in.
- Bake cookies for 13-15 minutes until edges are golden and centers are set. Add black sesame seeds halfway through. Cool on a wire rack and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.







