Thailand, a paradise for food lovers, offers a unique culinary landscape, particularly in the realm of desserts. The complex interplay of sweet, salty, and sometimes spicy flavors creates a vibrant tapestry of treats that are as diverse as they are delicious.
From the refreshing Thai Coconut Ice Cream to the unique Saku Sai Moo, Thailand’s dessert scene is a playground for sweet-toothed explorers. Don’t miss the traditional Khanom Chan, or the delightful Khanom Krok, and be sure to savor the rare Khao Mao Tod.
1. Khao Mao Tod
Khao Mao Tod is a rare Thai dessert that you should definitely try if you get a chance. Unlike the common Kluay Kaek, this is a fried banana dessert incorporating the crunch of unripe rice grains, shredded coconut, and sesame seeds. This unique treat is becoming increasingly scarce, making it an exclusive delicacy you wouldn’t want to miss in your culinary journey through Thailand.
2. Khao Niaow Tu Rian (Durian Sticky Rice)
Durian, a controversial fruit known for its pungent smell, is also used in many Thai desserts. Khao Niaow Tu Rian consists of sticky rice cooked with coconut milk and topped with durian flesh. Despite the strong aroma, this dessert has a rich and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the chewiness of sticky rice.
3. Khao Lam (Bamboo Sticky Rice)
Khao Lam is a unique dessert made by stuffing sticky rice, black beans, and coconut milk into a section of bamboo. The filled bamboo is then roasted over charcoal until the contents are fully cooked. This results in a delightful combination of flavors and textures with a smoky touch from the roasting process.
4. Khao Tom Mud (Banana in Sticky Rice)
If you’re someone with a sweet tooth, then you won’t be disappointed with the vast array of Thai desserts that are just waiting to be savored. One such delicacy that you won’t want to miss is Khao Tom Mud, or Banana in Sticky Rice. This dessert consists of a sweet banana rolled up in glutinous rice that’s been steamed to perfection and then covered in creamy coconut milk. The combination of textures and flavors is simply divine and will leave you wanting more. So the next time you find yourself in Thailand, don’t forget to add Khao Tom Mud to your list of must-try desserts.
5. Kluay Kaek (Thai Banana Fritters)
If you’re looking for a sweet and crispy Thai dessert, then Kluay Kaek (Thai Banana Fritters) should definitely be on your list. These deep-fried banana treats are a popular street food across Thailand and are often paired with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The bananas are coated in a light batter before being dropped into hot oil, resulting in a crunchy exterior and a soft, warm center. Kluay Kaek is commonly served as a dessert, but it can also make an excellent snack at any time of the day. Once you try this delicious dessert, you’ll understand why it belongs on the list of 26 Thai desserts that everyone should try.
6. Khao Niaow Ma Muang (Mango Sticky Rice)
No list of Thai desserts would be complete without mentioning Khao Niaow Ma Muang, or Mango Sticky Rice. This iconic dessert combines sweet sticky rice with fresh mango slices and a generous drizzle of creamy coconut milk. The result is a beautiful medley of flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying, making it the perfect treat to enjoy on a hot day in Thailand. You can find this delicious dessert in most restaurants and street food stalls across the country, so don’t miss out on trying it during your visit.
7. Roti Kluay (Thai Banana Roti)
Roti Kluay, also known as Thai Banana Roti, is a popular dessert among locals and tourists alike. It consists of a thin and crispy pancake made from flour, egg, and milk, filled with slices of ripe banana and drizzled with condensed milk or chocolate sauce. The combination of warm, sweet bananas encased in a crispy shell makes for a delicious treat that can be found in street food markets and dessert shops all over Thailand. So, if you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on trying this delectable dessert during your visit to Thailand.
8. Pa Thong Ko
Pa Thong Ko, also known as Thai Donuts, is a classic breakfast treat that can be found in many street food markets across Thailand. These deep-fried dough sticks come in different shapes and sizes, with some being crispy and others being soft and fluffy. They are often served with sweet dipping sauces or paired with savory dishes like congee or khanom chin. No matter how you enjoy them, Pa Thong Ko is a delicious and versatile Thai dessert that shouldn’t be missed.
9. Tub Tim Grob
Tub Tim Grob is a refreshing Thai dessert featuring small water chestnuts coated in a red gelatinous layer, giving the appearance of pomegranate seeds (‘Tub Tim’ means pomegranate). These delightfully crunchy gems are served in chilled coconut milk, offering a pleasant contrast of textures. Perfect for a hot day, this dessert is a wonderful blend of sweet and creamy flavors that will undoubtedly leave a memorable impression on your Thai culinary adventure.
10. Bua Loi
Bua Loi is a traditional Thai dessert characterized by its colorful glutinous rice balls served in a warm, sweet coconut milk broth. The rice balls, often tinted with natural coloring to create a vibrant dessert, are chewy and satisfying, contrasting beautifully with the rich, creamy coconut milk. This dessert strikes a balance between sweetness and texture, making it a must-try treat on any Thai culinary journey.
11. Ruam Mit
Ruam Mit, which translates to “mixed sweet things,” is a popular dessert in Thailand that consists of various ingredients mixed together. The main components typically include colorful jelly, chestnuts, beans, and other fruits, all served in a fragrant syrup or coconut milk broth. This dessert is unique in that it offers a different combination each time you order it, making for a fun and exciting dessert experience.
12. Oh Aew
Oh Aew is a lesser-known Thai dessert that is worth trying if you ever come across it. It features small, chewy balls made from taro flour and served in warm, sweet coconut milk broth. The contrast of textures and flavors between the chewy balls and creamy broth creates a deliciously comforting dessert that’s perfect for cooler days.
13. Khanom Tom
Khanom Tom is a traditional Thai dessert that consists of a sticky, chewy ball made from rice flour and stuffed with sweet coconut or bean paste. These balls are then coated in grated coconut before being steamed. The result is a deliciously satisfying snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. You can find Khanom Tom in many street food markets and dessert shops throughout Thailand, making it a convenient treat to indulge in during your travels.
14. Khanom Tako
Khanom Tako is a colorful and eye-catching dessert that consists of chewy coconut jelly topped with creamy, sweet custard. This treat is often served in small, bite-sized cups lined with banana leaves for an added touch of fragrance. The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful experience that will have you reaching for more. You can find Khanom Tako in many street food markets and dessert shops, making it a must-try treat on your Thai dessert adventure.
15. Khanom Sod Sai
Khanom Sot Sai is a unique Thai dessert that features colorful, bite-sized candy boats filled with sweet coconut cream and topped with crunchy peanuts. The boats are made from sliced bread dipped in colored sugar syrup and then shaped into small cups before being baked until crispy. This playful and delicious treat is often found in street food markets across Thailand, offering a fun twist on traditional Thai desserts. So, don’t miss the chance to try this delightful combination of flavors and textures during your visit to Thailand.
16. Bualoy
Bualoy is a popular Thai dessert that features glutinous rice balls served in warm coconut milk broth with chunks of taro and sweet potato. The use of different root vegetables adds an interesting depth of flavors and textures to this dessert, making it a unique and delicious treat. It’s often served with shaved ice for a refreshing touch on hot days. You can find Bualoy in many street food markets and dessert shops across Thailand, so be sure to give it a try.
17. Khanom Mor Kaeng
Khanom Mor Kaeng is a popular Thai dessert. It is made of steamed egg and coconut milk with a sweet topping. The texture is custard-like and melts in your mouth. This dessert can be found in local markets and street vendors all over Thailand. The flavors and toppings vary by region, but the classic version is flavored with pandan leaves. Don’t be fooled by its simple appearance, Khanom Mor Kaeng is a delicious and addictive treat that you won’t be able to resist. Give it a try and taste the authentic flavors of Thailand.
18. Khanom Chan
Khanom Chan, also known as “layered dessert,” is a beautiful and elegant Thai sweet made by layering different colored jellies and coconut cream. The jelly layers are made from coconut milk, rice flour, and pandan extract, giving them a unique green hue. This dessert is commonly served at special occasions or festivals in Thailand, making it a rare and special treat to savor during your visit.
19. Thong Yip
Thong Yip, also known as “golden egg yolks,” is a traditional Thai dessert that’s typically served during special occasions or festivals. It consists of delicate golden balls made from egg yolks and sugar syrup, giving them a rich and creamy texture. These sweet treats are often presented in intricate arrangements to create a stunning display. Thong Yip is a must-try dessert for anyone with a love for unique and luxurious sweets.
20. Khanom Bueang
Khanom Bueang, also known as “Thai crepe” or “Thai taco,” is a popular street food dessert in Thailand. It consists of thin and crispy pancakes filled with either sweet or savory toppings, including coconut cream, shredded coconut, egg yolk threads, shrimp floss, and more. The contrast of textures and flavors makes this a favorite among locals and tourists alike. You can find Khanom Bueang in many street food markets, so be sure to give it a try during your Thai culinary adventure.
21. Khao Tan
Khao Taen is a unique and playful Thai dessert that’s commonly served during the festival of Loi Krathong. It consists of sweet rice wrapped in banana leaves, fried until crispy, and then coated in sesame seeds for added crunch. These crunchy packets are often filled with surprises, such as beans or peanuts, adding an element of fun to this delicious treat. Don’t miss the chance to try Khao Taen during your visit to Thailand.
22. Khanom Krok
Khanom Krok, also known as “coconut pudding,” is a beloved Thai dessert often found in street food markets. It’s made by cooking a batter of coconut cream, rice flour, and sugar in small circular molds until they develop a crispy and caramelized exterior while remaining soft and creamy on the inside. This popular snack can be paired with various toppings such as scallions, corn, or taro for added flavor and texture. Don’t miss the chance to try this delectable treat during your visit to Thailand.
23. Thai Coconut Ice Cream
No list of Thai desserts would be complete without mentioning Thai Coconut Ice Cream. This refreshing and creamy dessert is made by churning coconut milk, sugar, and other ingredients in an old-fashioned metal drum filled with ice and salt. The result is a silky smooth ice cream that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various toppings such as peanuts, sweet corn, or sticky rice. Don’t miss the chance to try this delicious treat on a hot day in Thailand.
24. Luk Chub (Thai Mung Bean Candy)
Luk Chub, also known as Thai Mung Bean Candy, is a popular sweet treat that resembles miniature fruits and vegetables. It’s made from mung bean paste mixed with sugar and flavorings, shaped into small balls or other shapes, and then coated in a vibrant candy layer. The result is a beautiful and fun dessert that makes for an excellent gift or souvenir. You can find Luk Chub in various colors and flavors at street food markets, dessert shops, and even supermarkets throughout Thailand. Don’t miss the chance to try this unique and delicious candy during your Thai culinary adventure.
25. Thai Fruits
No list of Thai desserts would be complete without mentioning the abundance of fresh and exotic fruits available in Thailand. From sweet mangoes to tangy dragon fruit, there is an endless variety of mouthwatering fruits that make for a refreshing and healthy dessert option. You can find these fruits sold in street food markets or served as part of a fruit platter in most restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to try some of the freshest and juiciest fruits during your visit to Thailand.
26. Cha Yen (Thai Iced Tea)
Cha Yen, also known as Thai Iced Tea, is a popular beverage that can also double as a delicious dessert. This sweet and creamy drink is made with brewed Ceylon tea, condensed milk, and evaporated milk, giving it a unique orange hue. It’s often served over ice for a refreshing treat on hot days or paired with sticky rice and mango for a satisfying dessert. Don’t leave Thailand without trying this iconic and flavorful drink.
In conclusion
From street food markets to dessert shops, Thailand offers a cornucopia of sweet treats that are as diverse as they are flavorful. Each dessert tells a story, showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage, innovative spirit, and love for fresh, vibrant ingredients. As you embark on your Thai culinary journey, be sure to indulge in these delightful desserts – each one a testament to Thailand’s vibrant food culture.
