Easy Thai Dessert Recipe: Thai Peanut Sticky Rice Balls – Quick & Wholesome Snack at Home

For many home cooks, achieving the perfect balance of creamy coconut, sweet sticky rice, and crunchy nuts in a Thai dessert seems intimidating—but with this Easy Thai Dessert Recipe, that transformation becomes effortless. Our Thai Peanut Sticky Rice Balls recipe is designed to remove guesswork: you’ll learn how to cook sticky rice properly, mix it with coconut milk, and form bite-sized balls coated in crushed peanuts. We support your cooking journey with clear tips, ingredient advice, and serving suggestions, so you can confidently share this crowd-pleasing Thai sweet snack with friends and family.

What Are Thai Peanut Sticky Rice Balls and Why They’re Worth Making

Thai Peanut Sticky Rice Balls are soft, sweet treats made by combining glutinous rice with coconut milk and rolling them in crushed peanuts or sesame. This Thai sticky rice snack is gaining popularity among dessert lovers searching for “peanut coconut sticky rice balls” and “easy Thai coconut rice desserts.” Not only are they simple to prepare, they offer a wholesome alternative to typical cookies or candy.

Home-Friendly Benefits of Peanut Sticky Rice Balls

Minimal ingredients: sticky rice, coconut milk, sugar, peanuts
No baking or specialized equipment needed—just boiling or steaming
Vegetarian, dairy-free, and naturally gluten-free
Ideal as make-ahead snacks or party finger foods
Nutty peanut coating adds texture and protein

Ingredients for Thai Peanut Sticky Rice Balls Recipe

Below are all the items required to make these delightful Thai sweet bites at home:

Sticky Rice Mix

2 cups glutinous (sticky) rice, soaked 3–4 hours
1 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
¼ cup coconut sugar or palm sugar
½ teaspoon salt

Peanut Coating

1 cup roasted peanuts, finely chopped or crushed
Optional: 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

Ingredient Selection Tips

Soak sticky rice to achieve soft, chewy texture
Use full-fat coconut milk for rich creaminess
Coconut or palm sugar offers subtle caramel tones
Lightly roast peanuts for best flavor and crunch

How to Make Thai Peanut Sticky Rice Balls – Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Sticky Rice

Drain soaked rice, then steam for 30–35 minutes until soft and tender.
Alternatively, use a rice cooker with the “sticky rice” setting.

2. Prepare Coconut Mixture

In saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt over low heat.
Stir until sugar melts; avoid boiling to maintain creaminess.

3. Combine Rice and Coconut

Transfer steamed rice to a mixing bowl and pour warm coconut mixture.
Stir gently and let it sit for 20 minutes to absorb flavors.

4. Form and Coat Sticky Rice Balls

Grease your hands lightly; take small portions (~1.5 tbsp) of rice and roll into balls.
Roll each ball in crushed peanuts (plus sesame if using), pressing gently to adhere.
Place finished balls on a tray lined with parchment paper.

Serving Ideas and Variations for Peanut Sticky Rice Balls

These Thai sticky rice peanut balls can be personalized to suit different tastes:

Add shredded coconut inside for a double coconut flavor
Drizzle them with melted dark or white chocolate
Press a pocket of chopped banana or mango into the center
Mix ground sesame and peanuts for a nutty swirl

Find more coconut sticky rice desserts and ideas on this Thai dessert guide.

Nutrition and Dietary Highlights of Thai Peanut Sticky Rice Balls

These treats are made from whole-food ingredients, offering more nutritional value than processed sweets. Coconut milk gives healthy fats and energy, sticky rice supplies sustained carbohydrates, and peanuts add plant-based protein and fiber. They’re gluten-free and dairy-free by nature—perfect for vegan and vegetarian diets.

Storage Tips and Meal Prep Suggestions

Store in airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature
Chill for a cooler snack—refresh at room temperature before eating
Make in bulk and freeze individually for future treats
Assemble balls right before serving to keep peanut coating fresh

Conclusion: Enjoy Easy Thai Peanut Sticky Rice Balls at Home

This Easy Thai Dessert Recipe: Thai Peanut Sticky Rice Balls brings together creamy coconut, chewy rice, and nutty crunch in an effortless, oven-free treat. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll craft a traditional Thai sweet that’s perfect for any occasion—snacking, gifting, or sharing. Use these tips to master texture, flavor, and presentation—and celebrate Thai culinary tradition in your own kitchen.