These Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles combine the tropical sweetness of mango with the creamy richness of coconut milk, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The layers of smooth mango puree and tender sticky rice create a refreshing treat that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Perfect for a hot summer day, these popsicles bring the essence of Southeast Asia straight to your freezer. They are easy to make, naturally vegan, and gluten-free, making them an ideal dessert for anyone with dietary restrictions. The light coconut flavor paired with the sweet mango makes for a deliciously creamy and refreshing experience, perfect for cooling off in the heat.
Full Recipe:
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2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
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1 cup sticky rice (glutinous rice)
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1 1/2 cups coconut milk
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1/4 cup sugar
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
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Start by rinsing the sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the rice in water for at least 1 hour.
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After soaking, drain the rice and steam it over a pot of simmering water for about 20 minutes, or until tender.
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While the rice is cooking, blend the chopped mangoes in a blender until smooth, creating a mango puree.
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In a saucepan, heat the coconut milk, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Once the coconut mixture is heated, remove it from the stove.
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Once the rice is cooked, gently stir in the coconut milk mixture until the rice absorbs the coconut flavor.
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Fill popsicle molds with alternating layers of sticky rice and mango puree. Use a spoon to press the layers down firmly.
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Insert sticks into the molds and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until solid.
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To release the popsicles, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 6 popsicles
Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Dessert
Mango Sticky Rice is a beloved dessert originating from Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish made of sticky rice served with ripe mango slices and drizzled with a rich coconut sauce. This easy-to-make recipe has been a favorite for years, and now we have a frozen twist on the traditional treat—Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles! These popsicles are the perfect summer treat that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the sweet and tart flavor of fresh mango.
Whether you’re enjoying them poolside, at a BBQ, or as an after-dinner dessert, these Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles offer an exotic, refreshing take on a classic favorite. In this article, we’ll explore how to prepare these delicious popsicles, their benefits, and why they make an ideal addition to your summer dessert repertoire.
Why Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles are the Perfect Summer Treat
Summer calls for light, refreshing treats, and nothing says summer quite like the vibrant and tropical flavors of mango. When paired with coconut milk and sticky rice, it transforms into a creamy, indulgent dessert that is both satisfying and refreshing. These Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles elevate the traditional dessert, offering a cold and refreshing option to cool off in the heat.
The popsicles are not only delicious but are also easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients. They’re a perfect way to enjoy the essence of Southeast Asia, without having to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, with their naturally vegan and gluten-free ingredients, they cater to various dietary needs, making them suitable for nearly everyone.
The Nutritional Benefits of Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles
While mango sticky rice might be considered an indulgent dessert, Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles offer a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor. Mangoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them a nutrient-dense fruit. Rich in Vitamin C, mangoes help boost the immune system, promote healthy skin, and improve digestion. Additionally, mangoes are a good source of Vitamin A, essential for eye health and overall wellness.
Coconut milk, the base of this dessert, is a great source of healthy fats, which can help promote heart health and improve cholesterol levels. Unlike regular dairy milk, coconut milk is dairy-free and lactose-free, making it a great option for those with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet.
Sticky rice, or glutinous rice, adds a chewy, satisfying texture that complements the smoothness of the coconut milk and mango. While sticky rice is higher in carbohydrates than regular rice, it provides a quick source of energy, making it a great option for those needing an energy boost.
When combined, these ingredients create a delicious, naturally sweet, and satisfying dessert that provides nutrients and hydration, making it the perfect snack for a hot day.
How to Make Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles: Tips for Perfect Results
To make Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles, you don’t need any fancy kitchen tools or complicated techniques. The most important aspect of the recipe is the quality of the ingredients. Fresh, ripe mangoes and full-fat coconut milk are essential for achieving the best flavor and texture.
Here are a few tips to ensure your popsicles turn out perfectly every time:
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Use ripe mangoes: The sweetness of the mangoes will shine through in the popsicles. If your mangoes aren’t ripe enough, your popsicles might taste a little tart or bland.
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Don’t skip soaking the sticky rice: Soaking the sticky rice for at least one hour before cooking helps the rice absorb the coconut milk better, giving it that signature creamy texture.
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Layer the rice and mango puree carefully: To achieve the aesthetic look and balanced flavor, alternate the layers of sticky rice and mango puree in the popsicle molds. Press the layers down gently to prevent air pockets, which could affect the texture.
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Freeze overnight: While the popsicles might freeze within a few hours, for the best results, freeze them overnight to ensure they are solid and hold their shape when removed from the mold.
The Magic of Layering Mango and Sticky Rice
The layering of mango puree and sticky rice in these popsicles is not only for visual appeal but also plays an important role in the overall flavor and texture. When you take a bite, the creamy coconut sticky rice provides a chewy, satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the smooth, sweet mango puree.
Mango and sticky rice is a pairing that has been celebrated in Thailand for centuries, and this frozen version captures the same balance of flavors in a more refreshing format. Each bite of the popsicle offers a burst of tropical flavors, providing a creamy yet refreshing treat that’s perfect for hot weather.
Customizing Your Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. While the traditional version is already amazing, you can customize your Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles in various ways to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
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Add a touch of vanilla or lime zest: If you enjoy a little extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the coconut milk mixture for a hint of warmth or some lime zest to the mango puree for a zesty twist.
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Include toppings: Top your popsicles with toasted sesame seeds, shredded coconut, or even a drizzle of honey for extra texture and sweetness.
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Make them even creamier: If you prefer a richer, creamier popsicle, you can add a bit more coconut milk or even a spoonful of coconut cream to the mix.
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Swap in other fruits: While mango is the star of this recipe, you could also experiment with other tropical fruits like passionfruit, pineapple, or papaya for a unique twist.
Serving Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles
Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles are ideal for outdoor gatherings, parties, or any summer event. Their tropical flair makes them a fun and exciting dessert option that guests will love. They are also great for meal prepping—make a big batch and store them in your freezer for quick access whenever you want a refreshing treat.
For a simple yet stunning presentation, serve the popsicles in small bowls with additional fresh mango slices, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of coconut milk on top. If you’re hosting a tropical-themed party, these popsicles are the perfect addition to your menu, bringing both flavor and flair to the table.
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Conclusion
Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles are a delightful and refreshing twist on a beloved Southeast Asian classic. By combining the tropical sweetness of ripe mangoes, the creamy richness of coconut milk, and the chewy texture of sticky rice, this dessert captures all the indulgence of the traditional dish—except now, it’s frozen and perfect for summer.
Not only do these popsicles offer a satisfying treat for your taste buds, but they also come with the bonus of being easy to make, naturally vegan, and gluten-free. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tropical dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a BBQ, Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles are sure to impress your guests and keep everyone cool on a hot day.
With their versatility and simple ingredients, this recipe can be customized to your liking—whether you want to add a hint of lime, top them with sesame seeds, or swap in another tropical fruit. No matter how you choose to make them, one thing is for sure: these popsicles will bring the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia straight to your freezer and offer a memorable, refreshing treat all summer long.