Thailand is a paradise for dessert lovers, offering a variety of must-try desserts that are as delicious as they are unique. From creamy coconut ice cream to chewy rice cakes, each dessert has its own special story and flavor. Whether you’re exploring a local market or enjoying a meal at a restaurant, trying the top 10 signature desserts in Thailand is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth!
Top 10 Signature Desserts in Thailand
1. Khanom Chan (Thai Layer Cake)
Khanom Chan is one of the most traditional Thai sweets, loved for its soft, chewy, and jelly-like texture. The name translates to “layered dessert,” which perfectly describes its delicate layers made from tapioca flour, rice flour, and creamy coconut milk. This signature Thai dessert has been enjoyed since the Sukhothai period and remains a staple at special occasions, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.
Traditionally, Khanom Chan is made with at least nine layers, as the number nine is believed to bring luck. Each bite is mildly sweet, infused with a fragrant coconut aroma, and has a silky-smooth texture. More than just a treat, it’s a symbol of happiness, making it one of the best desserts in Thailand to try. The balance of flavors and unique texture make it an unforgettable part of Thailand’s rich culinary heritage.
2. Ai Tim Mat Phrao (Coconut Ice Cream)
On a warm day in Thailand, nothing is more refreshing than Ai Tim Mat Phrao, or coconut ice cream. This Thai dessert to try is made from coconut milk, giving it a light, creamy texture with a naturally sweet and slightly salty flavor. Sometimes, coconut water and palm sugar are added to enhance its taste, creating an irresistible tropical delight.
What makes this famous Thai dessert even more special is its serving style. Traditionally, it’s scooped into a fluffy bun or paired with sticky rice, then topped with roasted peanuts, sweet corn, fresh mango, or toasted coconut. Whether bought from a street cart in Bangkok or enjoyed at a café, this tropical treat is a must-try for coconut lovers. Every spoonful is a delightful combination of sweetness and creaminess that perfectly embodies Thailand’s love for coconut-based desserts.
3. Khao Niew Mamuang (Mango Sticky Rice)
No list of signature desserts in Thailand is complete without Khao Niew Mamuang. This sweet treat pairs glutinous rice, juicy ripe mango, and rich coconut milk for the ultimate balance of flavors. Loved by both locals and visitors, it’s a must-try when exploring traditional Thai sweets.
The process starts with steaming sticky rice until it’s soft and fragrant. Then, it’s mixed with coconut cream and sugar, creating a slightly sweet, creamy texture. Served with fresh mango slices and an extra drizzle of coconut cream, this dessert is especially popular during mango season when the fruit is at its ripest. Whether you enjoy it at a high-end restaurant or from a bustling street market, this signature Thai dessert captures the heart of Thai cuisine.
4. Roti (Banana Pancakes)
Roti is one of Thailand’s most popular street foods, offering a delicious blend of Indian influences with a Thai twist. Unlike traditional Indian roti, Thai roti is thinner, crispier, and often served as a sweet snack rather than a flatbread.
You’ll find both sweet and savory versions of this Thai dessert, and they are all worth trying. The sweet variety is topped with condensed milk, sugar, or chocolate and often filled with bananas or eggs. The savory version is paired with flavorful curries, making it a versatile dish loved by locals and tourists alike. No matter how you enjoy it, roti is one of the best desserts in Thailand and a must-have experience at night markets.
5. Khanom Buang (Thai Crispy Pancakes)
Khanom Buang, or Thai Crispy Pancakes, is a street food staple with a history dating back centuries. These delicate, taco-shaped treats have a thin, crispy crepe-like shell and come with both sweet and savory fillings. Their origins trace back to the Ayutthaya period, where they were influenced by both Thai and Portuguese culinary traditions. Today, they remain a favorite among locals and tourists alike, often found sizzling on griddles at bustling markets and street stalls across Thailand.
The sweet version is topped with Foi Thong (sweetened egg yolks), creating a golden, rich flavor that perfectly complements the crispy shell. Some variations also include a dollop of whipped coconut cream for added sweetness. The savory version includes a mix of shrimp, coconut, and herbs for a bold, flavorful bite. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, this signature Thai dessert is an absolute must-try when visiting Thailand. The contrast of crunchy pancake and luscious fillings makes it one of the most unique street treats in the country, offering a delightful experience with every bite.
6. Lod Chong (Thai Sweet Soup)
If you’re looking for a refreshing Thai dessert to try, Lod Chong is perfect for cooling down on a warm day. This popular dessert features soft, chewy green noodles flavored with pandan, served in sweetened coconut milk with crushed ice. The combination of silky noodles and creamy coconut milk creates a satisfying contrast of textures, making it a favorite treat among locals and visitors alike.
Similar to cendol, Lod Chong is found at open-air markets and can be enjoyed in a bowl or as a drink. It’s sometimes topped with sweet corn, jackfruit, or other tropical fruits, adding extra texture and flavor. Some variations include a drizzle of palm sugar syrup for an extra hint of sweetness. Light, creamy, and perfectly chilled, it’s one of the best desserts in Thailand for summertime indulgence.
7. Khao Tom Mad (Banana Sticky Rice)
Khao Tom Mad is a delicious traditional Thai sweet made from sticky rice, coconut milk, and bananas, all wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. Sometimes called “tied boiled rice,” this dessert is compact, fragrant, and easy to grab on the go. The combination of creamy coconut milk and naturally sweet bananas gives it a rich, comforting taste, while the banana leaves add a subtle aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
Though it shares a name with Khao Tom (a savory rice dish), Khao Tom Mad is purely sweet, thanks to the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the richness of coconut cream. It is commonly found at street stalls and markets across Thailand, where locals and visitors alike enjoy its soft, chewy texture. Some variations include the addition of black beans for extra texture and contrast. Simple yet satisfying, this famous Thai dessert perfectly captures the essence of traditional Thai sweets and is a must-try for anyone with a love for coconut-infused treats.
8. Bua Loi (Thai Floating Lotus Dessert)
Bua Loi, meaning “floating lotus,” is a comforting signature Thai dessert featuring colorful, glutinous rice flour balls served in warm coconut milk. These chewy rice balls float to the surface as they cook, resembling lotus seeds—hence the name. The dish is often enhanced with a hint of pandan for added fragrance, and some variations include a rich egg yolk stirred into the coconut milk, creating an even creamier texture.
A popular street food and festive favorite, Bua Loi is inspired by the Chinese Tangyuan and is often enjoyed during the Dongzhi Festival by Thai-Chinese communities. Its mild sweetness, combined with the silky coconut milk and chewy texture of the rice balls, makes it a heartwarming dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether served at bustling night markets or as a homemade treat, this famous Thai dessert continues to be a beloved choice for those seeking comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
9. Khanom Pang Sang Kaya (Panda Custard Bread)
A favorite among famous Thai desserts, Khanom Pang Sang Kaya features fluffy bread paired with a sweet pandan custard dip. The custard, known as Sang Kaya, has a vibrant green color from pandan leaves and a creamy, coconut-rich texture. Its smooth consistency and delicate sweetness make it an irresistible treat for those who love traditional Thai flavors. The natural fragrance of pandan enhances the dessert, giving it a unique and aromatic appeal.
Commonly found at street stalls and cafés across the country, this Thai dessert is typically served with steamed or toasted bread for dipping, allowing the warm, pillowy texture to soak up the rich custard. Some variations include serving it with buttered toast or crispy breadsticks for an added crunch. Often enjoyed with a cup of warm milk or Thai tea, it’s a comforting late-night snack that’s both simple and satisfying, perfect for those looking for a taste of authentic Thai indulgence.
10. Sangkhaya Fakthong (Thai Pumpkin Custard)
Sangkhaya Fakthong is one of the most unique traditional Thai sweets, where creamy coconut custard is steamed inside a whole pumpkin. Sangkhaya refers to the custard, while Fak Thong means pumpkin in Thai, resulting in a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. The contrast between the smooth, velvety custard and the naturally sweet, tender pumpkin creates an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
This signature Thai dessert is made using coconut milk, eggs, palm sugar, and aromatic pandan leaves, which infuse the custard with a delicate fragrance. The custard is poured into the hollowed-out pumpkin and then steamed until perfectly set, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Found in street food stalls and fine-dining restaurants alike, this famous Thai dessert offers a perfect balance of rich, sweet custard and soft, tender pumpkin. Some variations include a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves coconut-based treats with an extra twist.
Conclusion
Thai desserts are more than just tasty snacks—they’re a fun and delicious way to experience the country’s culture. Whether you love fruity, creamy, or chewy treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So next time you’re here, don’t forget to have a taste of these 10 signature desserts in Thailand and discover your new favorite!
Taste your way through different countries’ cuisines:
Top 10 Signature Desserts in Cambodia You Won’t Be Able To Resist
Top 10 Signature Desserts in Laos: Sweet, Sticky & Irresistible
2 Comments