Craving something sweet while in Bangkok? You’re in the right place. Thai desserts are a perfect blend of flavor, color, and tradition—each bite revealing a story of culture, family, and tropical indulgence. In this expert guide by Angel-Telecom.com, we dive into the must-try sweet treats that define Thailand’s culinary charm.
Why Thai Desserts Are a Must-Try
Thailand’s sweets are not just sugary treats—they are culinary expressions of balance and freshness. Whether it’s coconut cream or tropical fruits like mango and durian, Thai desserts often focus on texture contrasts and natural ingredients.
Unlike Western desserts, Thai sweets use less processed sugar and more rice flour, sticky rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar. These ingredients come together to create light, fragrant, and satisfying dishes.
“The art of Thai dessert is a delicate dance of color, texture, and tradition passed down through generations.”
1. Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)
No list of Thai desserts in Bangkok would be complete without mango sticky rice. This beloved classic consists of glutinous rice soaked in sweetened coconut milk, served with sliced ripe mango and a drizzle of coconut cream.
It’s a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and creamy, making it a go-to dessert during mango season (March to June). You can find it everywhere—from street vendors to upscale restaurants.
Learn more about Bangkok’s best mango sticky rice stalls
2. Tub Tim Grob (Red Rubies Dessert)
Known as “Red Rubies,” this vibrant dessert features water chestnuts coated in tapioca flour, dyed bright red, and served in coconut milk with shaved ice. The result is a chewy, crunchy, and icy experience all in one.
Refreshing and not overly sweet, it’s perfect for Bangkok’s tropical heat. The dish is not only delicious but also incredibly photogenic—a favorite for Instagrammers.
3. Khanom Buang (Thai Crispy Pancakes)
These crispy taco-like treats are filled with a sweet or savory cream and topped with shredded coconut, egg yolk threads (foi thong), or chopped scallions.
Often spotted at markets like Chatuchak and Asiatique, Khanom Buang are both crunchy and creamy—a textural delight that dates back to the Ayutthaya period.
They’re a great snack to enjoy while walking and sampling street food.
4. Khanom Chan (Layered Jelly Cake)
This nine-layered dessert made from rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar is more than just eye candy. The pastel layers are steamed individually and offer a subtle sweetness with a chewy texture.
Traditionally, Khanom Chan is used in auspicious ceremonies. The nine layers symbolize progress and prosperity. You’ll often find this dessert at local festivals and spiritual offerings.
5. Bua Loy (Floating Lotus)
Bua Loy is made with glutinous rice flour rolled into colorful pearls and cooked in warm coconut milk. Sometimes, it comes with an egg yolk in the center (Bua Loy Kai Wan) for extra richness.
This comforting dessert is often served warm, making it ideal for a rainy Bangkok afternoon. Its name means “floating lotus,” evoking both elegance and serenity.
6. Lod Chong (Thai Pandan Noodles in Coconut Milk)
This dessert is similar to Vietnamese chè, featuring green pandan noodles, crushed ice, and palm sugar syrup in coconut milk. It’s sweet, fragrant, and extremely cooling—especially on a scorching day.
You’ll often find Lod Chong sold from street carts in Chinatown (Yaowarat). Its vivid green color and slurp-worthy texture make it a crowd favorite.
7. Khanom Tom (Coconut Rice Balls)
These bite-sized desserts are made from glutinous rice flour stuffed with shredded coconut and palm sugar. Rolled in more coconut flakes, they’re a chewy and satisfying option for coconut lovers.
Khanom Tom is especially popular during Thai festivals and celebrations. They’re not overly sweet and can be found in most local dessert shops or open-air markets.
8. Foi Thong (Golden Egg Threads)
A unique and elegant dessert, Foi Thong is made by drizzling egg yolk through a fine sieve into boiling syrup, forming golden strands. It’s a fusion dessert that traces its roots to Portuguese influence.
Traditionally used in weddings and special events, Foi Thong symbolizes eternal love and longevity. You’ll often see it paired with other desserts like Thong Yip and Thong Yod.
9. Ruam Mit (Mixed Thai Dessert)
This dessert is a combination of everything: chestnuts, jackfruit, tapioca pearls, sweet corn, lotus seeds, and more—all mixed in sweet coconut milk over ice.
Think of it as the Thai version of halo-halo. It’s colorful, versatile, and perfect for those who can’t decide on just one topping. You’ll find it at local dessert stalls throughout Bangkok.
10. Thong Yod (Golden Drops)
Often paired with Foi Thong, these are golden teardrop-shaped sweets made from egg yolks and sugar syrup. They are soft, rich, and elegant—usually served in ceremonial contexts.
Their bright golden color represents wealth and good luck, which is why they’re so prominent during Thai New Year and weddings.
Where to Try Thai Desserts in Bangkok
You don’t need to go far to find authentic sweets. Here are some top locations:
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Chinatown (Yaowarat Road): Ideal for night-time dessert tasting.
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Or Tor Kor Market: Clean, premium produce and traditional sweets.
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Iconsiam & Terminal 21: Upscale malls with curated dessert stalls.
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Street vendors at Silom & Sukhumvit: For the real street food vibe.
Tips for Trying Thai Desserts
“The best Thai desserts are often found in the most unexpected places.”
Here are a few expert tips:
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Try warm desserts like Bua Loy during cooler weather or evenings.
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Look for fresh coconut milk—a key to quality flavor.
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Don’t shy away from colorful treats—they’re usually all-natural.
FAQs About Thai Desserts
Q: Are Thai desserts vegetarian?
A: Most are! They often use coconut milk instead of dairy, though some may contain eggs.
Q: Where can I find the best mango sticky rice in Bangkok?
A: Head to Mae Varee near Thonglor BTS or Kor Panich in Old Town for top-rated options.
Q: Is it safe to eat desserts from street vendors?
A: Yes, generally safe if the stall is clean and busy with locals. Freshness is key.
Final Thoughts
Bangkok is a dessert paradise that beautifully blends tradition and tropical flavors. Whether it’s the creamy richness of mango sticky rice or the refreshing chill of tub tim grob, Thai sweets are more than food—they’re culture in a bowl.
For more local insights, don’t forget to check out our Thai street food guides and Bangkok travel tips.
Experience the sweetness of Bangkok—one dessert at a time.
