When you think of Thailand’s food scene, it’s the usual suspects popping up - pad thai, tom yum, red or green curry, pad kaprow and vice versa. And if you have a sweet tooth, you would be happy to know that Thailand’s dessert scene is way more diverse than your usual mango with sticky rice. You will find a rich selection of desserts that are a mix of tropical fruits, creamy coconuts, and glutinous rice. While classics like mango sticky rice and Thai coconut pudding are famous worldwide, the northern region has its own special treats that deserve just as much attention. Chiang Mai, the heart of Northern Thailand, is the perfect place to indulge in these unique and traditional Thai desserts.
Chiang Mai is a fantastic place to try some of Thailand’s amazing desserts. You can easily find them in markets, street stalls, or specialty dessert cafes across the city. Let’s explore some of the best traditional Thai desserts from Northern Thailand and across the country.
A street food favorite, Khanom Krok is made from rice flour and coconut milk and baked in a specially crafted cast-iron pan to create miniature round pancakes. The snack has a crunchy outside and a soft inside, with a rich coconut flavor. Occasionally, sweet corn or green onions are used as toppings for added texture.
Of course, we wouldn’t miss the global mascot of Thailand’s dessert scene on the list! The rich and sweet mango complements the sticky rice soaked in coconut milk to create a creamy, slightly salty contrast. With some added crunch from mung beans or sesame seeds on top, this dessert is simple but extremely satisfying.
Usually served on special occasions, this Northern Thailand dessert is prepared with syrup and egg yolk. Thong Yip is formed into exquisitely designed flowers, while Thong Yod is formed into small golden drops. Their radiance and rich sweetness definitely make them stand out from other traditional Thai desserts.
These sweets are shaped like tiny fruits but are actually sweetened mung bean paste. They are coated in jelly with a vibrant color and are nearly too pretty to be eaten. Luk Chup is delicately sweet and smooth in texture, so it makes a lovely and attractive dessert to indulge in.
A refreshing dessert perfect for hot days, Tub Tim Krob consists of diced water chestnuts coated in tapioca flour, giving them a chewy texture. Served in chilled coconut milk with crushed ice, this dessert is light, crunchy, and deliciously cooling.
This simple but satisfying dessert consists of sticky rice, coconut milk, and bananas wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to softness. Black beans are sometimes included to add additional texture. The result is a sweet, scented dessert that is both healthy and delicious.
Khanom Thuay is a popular traditional Thai dessert consisting of two layers of coconut custard. The lower layer isn't overly sweet, and the top layer contains a touch of saltiness, which makes the whole thing so delicious. It comes in small ceramic bowls and is dense, creamy, and oh-so-smooth.
One of the popular street food snacks, Khanom Ba Bin, is made with grated coconut, sticky rice flour, and sugar and then grilled until perfect. The result is a slightly crunchy exterior with a soft and chewy interior. These fragrant pancakes are ideal for coconut lovers.
These jellies, shaped like flowers, are as dainty as they are tasty and are flavored with natural flower scents. They come in various colors and flavors, with pandan, butterfly pea, and coconut milk being common ingredients. They are soft to the touch and wobbly in texture, making them a fun and refreshing treat.
This sweet and smoky dessert from Northern Thailand is made of sticky rice mixed with coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled over charcoal. The banana leaf, which is slightly burnt, emits a whiff of smokiness that enhances the coconut flavor, making it a favorite among locals and tourists.
Chiang Mai is home to numerous local markets and dessert shops where these Northern Thailand desserts are available. You can start at Warorot Market, which offers a variety of traditional Thai and northern Thai desserts. Night markets, such as the Sunday Walking Street and Chiang Mai Gate Market, also have numerous street vendors selling fresh, homemade sweets. For others who like a more relaxed ambiance, some of the city's dessert shops and cafés serve more Instagram-worthy versions of these classic desserts.
When in Chiang Mai for a food adventure and to try all these traditional Thai treats, you need the perfect base to stay.
Welcome to Horizon Village & Resort in Chiang Mai, a stunning and peaceful retreat nestled in the heart of a 115-acre botanic garden. Home to 246 rooms decorated in traditional Thai Lanna style, our hotel offers modern comforts and authentic Northern Thai hospitality.
We offer a range of fun on-site activities for our guests. One of the highlights of staying at Horizon Village & Resort is the opportunity to participate in a hands-on cooking class in Chiang Mai. Guided by expert chefs, guests can learn how to prepare traditional Thai desserts and Northern Thai desserts from scratch. These classes provide a wonderful way to bring the taste of Thailand home.
From well-loved classics to the unique flavors of Lanna sweets, Chiang Mai is a dream destination for dessert lovers. The city’s markets and cafés offer an incredible variety of sweets that highlight the region’s rich culinary traditions.
To truly immerse yourself in the experience, consider staying at Horizon Village & Resort, where you can learn the art of making these treats yourself. We invite you to book a stay and take part in our cooking classes - you’ll not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also take home a newfound appreciation for Thailand’s dessert culture.
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