As I bit into one of these Mango Sticky Rice Cookies, the distinct balance of chewy coconut and sweet mango whisked me away to sun-drenched beaches. This delightful recipe is a tropical twist on the classic cookie, blending rich flavors with a soft texture that’s simply irresistible. The best part? They’re not just delicious; they come together quickly, making them a perfect choice for last-minute gatherings or when you crave something homemade. Plus, with easy adaptations for vegan or gluten-free diets, there’s no reason to leave anyone out of this delicious treat. Curious about how these cookies can transport you to a slice of paradise in your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?
Uniqueness: These Mango Sticky Rice Cookies combine tropical flavors for a refreshing twist on cookies. Quick to Prepare: Ready in just a handful of steps, they’re perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Customizable: With options for vegan, nut-free, and gluten-free variations, everyone can enjoy! Crowd-Pleasing: Serve them at parties, and watch them disappear—no one can resist that chewy goodness! Pair them with a scoop of coconut ice cream for a delightful dessert experience similar to the indulgence of Forgotten Cookies Light. Embrace a little taste of paradise in every bite!
Mango Sticky Rice Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and richness; use room temperature for easy mixing.
- Brown Sugar – Adds deep sweetness and moisture, helping create that chewy texture we love.
- White Sugar – Sweetens and lightens the cookie dough for a balanced flavor.
- Egg – Binds the dough together and contributes to the cookie’s structure.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; opt for pure extract for the best results.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise and ensures a lighter texture.
- Salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the primary structure for the cookies; swap for gluten-free flour for a yummy gluten-free option.
For the Mango Jam
- Mangoes – The star ingredient providing that luscious tropical flavor; use fresh or frozen for convenience.
- White Sugar (for jam) – Sweetens the mango jam to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.
For the Chewy Texture
- Sweet Rice – This is critical; it provides that delightful chewy texture—don’t substitute with regular rice!
- Coconut Milk – Adds a creamy consistency, or you can go dairy-free by using coconut oil and omitting the condensed milk.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds a rich sweetness; can be left out for a dairy-free version.
Curling up with a batch of these Mango Sticky Rice Cookies will surely transport you straight to tropical bliss—enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Sticky Rice Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Mango Jam
Begin by dicing fresh mangoes and placing them in a saucepan over medium heat. Add white sugar and stir occasionally for about 10–15 minutes, allowing the mixture to simmer and thicken. Once it reaches a jam-like consistency and the mangoes are softened, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Sticky Rice
In a bowl, soak sweet rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal texture. After soaking, drain and transfer the rice to a steamer lined with cheesecloth. Steam the rice for 30–40 minutes until tender and translucent. Remove it from the heat and mix in coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk, allowing it to cool for a thicker consistency.
Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together room temperature unsalted butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually sift in all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt, stirring until just combined. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for easier handling.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared sheet, spacing them a few inches apart. Press a small spoonful of mango jam onto the center of each cookie dough mound, followed by a dollop of the sticky rice mixture, swirling slightly to combine.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly soft. Keep an eye on them, as you’ll want those centers to remain chewy, adding to the unique texture of your Mango Sticky Rice Cookies.
Step 6: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period will help them firm up. After that, use a spatula to transfer the cookies to a wire rack, allowing them to cool completely before enjoying their delightful chewy texture.

Expert Tips for Mango Sticky Rice Cookies
- Ripe Mango Selection: Choose ripe mangoes for a sweet, rich flavor; overripe ones can lead to an unpleasant taste in your cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures that your Mango Sticky Rice Cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close watch while baking; the cookies should be golden around the edges but still slightly soft in the center for that ideal chewy texture.
- Sticky Rice Warning: Always use sweet rice for achieving the authentic chewy texture of these cookies; other rice varieties won’t work.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize with chocolate chips or a pinch of spice; just be mindful of how those additions might change the overall flavor balance.
Storage Tips for Mango Sticky Rice Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
- Fridge: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
- Freezer: Freeze cookies for up to 1 month; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen Mango Sticky Rice Cookies at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to enjoy their chewy texture again.
Mango Sticky Rice Cookies Variations
Don’t be afraid to get creative—these cookies can be tailored to fit any taste or dietary need!
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Vegan Twist: Replace the egg with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use vegan butter for a delightful vegan version.
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Nut-Free Option: Simply omit any nuts or swap in sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens.
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Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour blends instead of all-purpose flour to keep everyone at your table happy!
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a melty, indulgent mocha twist that satisfies your sweet tooth.
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Tropical Fruit Medley: Feel free to mix it up and substitute mango with pineapple or banana for a refreshing seasonal variation. You might discover a new favorite!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising burst of heat that perfectly contrasts the sweet flavors.
These adaptations not only cater to different diets but also add freshness to each batch. For an exquisite treat, serve alongside a scoop of coconut ice cream, echoing the flavors of those indulgent Savory Rosemary Cookies and keeping the tropical theme alive!
What to Serve with Mango Sticky Rice Cookies
These delightful treats offer a sweet, tropical atmosphere that perfectly complements many delicious accompaniments.
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Coconut Ice Cream: The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookies, creating a refreshing and indulgent dessert experience.
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Fresh Tropical Fruits: Brighten your plate with a mix of pineapple, kiwi, and berries; their acidity balances the sweetness of the cookies.
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Mango Lassi: This traditional drink offers a creamy, tangy contrast, enhancing the tropical theme and cooling down your palate.
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Coconut Milk Beverage: Serve chilled coconut milk for an authentic island feel that accentuates the coconut flavors in the cookies.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Drizzle or dip for a decadent contrast; the rich chocolate beautifully complements the tropical flavors.
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Citrus Salad: A refreshing salad with oranges and lime adds a zesty brightness that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Sharing these cookies with loved ones while enjoying paired delights will transport you straight to sunny tropical shores, making every moment feel like a vacation.
Make Ahead Options
These Mango Sticky Rice Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the mango jam and sticky rice up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The cookie dough can also be made ahead—just chill it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet, add the refrigerated mango jam and sticky rice, and swirl to combine. Bake them, and you’ll still enjoy that delightful, fresh-from-the-oven taste with minimal effort!

Mango Sticky Rice Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my mangoes are ripe?
Absolutely! When selecting mangoes for your cookies, look for fruit that is slightly soft when pressed, with vibrant color and a sweet, fruity aroma. Avoid mangoes with dark spots all over or any browning, as these might be overripe. Ripe mangoes provide the sweetest flavor for your cookies.
What’s the best way to store Mango Sticky Rice Cookies?
Very! To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days; just remember to wrap them well to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Mango Sticky Rice Cookies?
Definitely! Freezing is a great option for these cookies. Wrap the cooled cookies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to revive their chewy texture.
What if my cookies turn out too dry or hard?
Great question! If your cookies come out dry, it often means they were overbaked. To avoid this, please watch closely in the oven and remove them when they’re golden around the edges but still soft in the center. It’s crucial to chill the dough; this keeps cookies from spreading too much and helps maintain their chewy texture.
Are there any allergy considerations for these cookies?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, these cookies can be made nut-free by simply omitting any nuts or swapping in sunflower seeds. For gluten-free options, use certified gluten-free flour. Be mindful of using sweetened condensed milk, as it contains dairy; for a dairy-free version, opt for coconut cream or omit it entirely.
Can I use regular rice instead of sweet rice?
Nope! Sweet rice is essential for achieving the chewy texture of these Mango Sticky Rice Cookies. Regular rice won’t work as a substitute. If you can’t find sweet rice, look for glutinous rice varieties, often available in Asian grocery stores, to maintain that delicious, authentic chewy consistency.

Delightful Mango Sticky Rice Cookies to Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Mango Jam by dicing fresh mangoes and placing them in a saucepan over medium heat with white sugar. Stir occasionally for about 10–15 minutes. Remove from heat once thickened and cool completely.
- Make the Sticky Rice by soaking sweet rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and steam for 30–40 minutes until tender. Mix in coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk, then allow it to cool.
- Prepare the Cookie Dough by creaming butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, then sift in flour, baking soda, and salt. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
- Assemble the Cookies by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, scoop dough onto the sheet, add mango jam and sticky rice on each mound.
- Bake the Cookies for 13–15 minutes until edges are golden brown and centers are soft. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Cool the Cookies completely before serving.

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