Sassy Chopsticks

  • Flavorful Asian-inspired Recipes
  • Recipes
  • Pantry
  • How-To
  • About
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Pantry
  • How-To
  • About
  • Subscribe

subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipes
  • Pantry
  • How-To
  • About
  • Subscribe

×
Home » Recipes » Desserts

Easy Black Rice Pudding: A Hearty, Delicious Dessert

Published: Jun 17, 2025 by Yuan

57 shares
  • Facebook
  • Flipboard
  • X
Jump to Recipe
Black rice pudding pin.

If you’re new to black sticky rice, this is a delicious way to start. Black rice pudding, also known as Thai black rice pudding or purple sticky rice dessert. This warm black rice pudding has a nutty aroma, creamy coconut richness, and natural sweetness.

A bowl of black sticky rice pudding garnished with mango slices and sprinkled with coconut flakes.
Jump To
  • Ingredients
  • Step-by-step cooking directions 
  • Pro tips
  • Storage
  • Some delicious variations
  • Pairing dishes
  • Final thoughts
  • FAQ
  • Easy Black Rice Pudding: A Hearty, Delicious Dessert
  • YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

It's a delicious, naturally gluten-free and dairy-free dish, and it's easy to make at home with just a few pantry staples. Let’s bring a little sweetness and comfort to your kitchen in every bite.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy black rice pudding. Each ingredient brings its own unique texture, aroma, or sweetness to the dish.

Black rice pudding ingredients.
  • Black glutinous rice: Also known as black sticky rice or forbidden rice, it turns deep purple after cooking and offers a rich, nutty flavor.
  • White glutinous rice: Mixing in a bit of white glutinous rice helps create a better pudding consistency. The white glutinous rice also adds soft texture to balance the chewiness of black rice.
  • Water
  • Coconut sugar: You could also use palm sugar.
  • Salt: It is optional.
  • Organic coconut milk: Adds luscious richness as a topping.
  • Unsweetened coconut flakes: Optional topping that adds crunch and extra coconut flavor.
  • Fresh mango cubes
  • Crushed toasted peanuts: Optional toppings for extra texture.
  • Fresh mint: for garnish.
  • Roasted sesame seeds

Step-by-step cooking directions 

Making black rice pudding is easier than you might think. Simply follow these steps, and you'll end up with a rich, satisfying dessert every time.

To start, rinse the black glutinous rice and white glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This helps remove excess starch and keeps the pudding from getting overly gummy.

Cook the rice in a rice cooker with water. As it cooks, the grains will absorb the liquid and slowly release their natural starches, turning into a thick, porridge-like pudding with a beautiful deep purple hue.

Black rice pudding step 1.
Black rice pudding step 2.

Once the rice is tender and most of the water has been absorbed, stir in the coconut sugar and salt right away. This helps prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Continue stirring for an additional couple of minutes, until the sugar has fully dissolved and the pudding has a thick, glossy consistency. Spoon the warm black rice pudding into serving bowls.

Black rice pudding step 3.
Black rice pudding step 4.

Drizzle coconut flakes over the top, sprinkle with roasted sesame seeds and crushed roasted peanuts. Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves on top to add a lovely pop of color and freshness.

A delicious serving of black rice pudding paired with ripe mangoes and coconut flakes.

Simmer the coconut milk in a pan until warm. Pour the warm coconut milk over the black rice pudding. Serve warm and enjoy!

Coconut milk is being poured over the black rice pudding.

Pro tips

These helpful tips will help you make perfect black rice pudding. A few small tweaks can make a big difference in taste and texture.

Rinse the rice well: Black glutinous rice has a high amount of surface starch, so rinsing until the water runs mostly clear helps prevent your pudding from becoming gummy.

Sweet black rice pudding served with juicy mango chunks and coconut shreds in a coconut milk base.

Soaking is helpful, but not required: If you have time, soak the rice for a few hours or overnight. It shortens the cooking time and gives you a slightly creamier texture. But if you skip it, no worries! It’ll still turn out delicious.

Add the pandan leaves if you can find them: These fragrant leaves add a delicious aroma that takes this pudding to the next level. I did not add it in this recipe since I could not find it at my local Asian store.

Black rice pudding in coconut milk, topped with mango cubes and mint, with a wooden spoon scooping the creamy dessert.

Adjust the sweetness to your taste: Coconut sugar gives a rich flavor, but feel free to use palm sugar or your favorite type of sugar. Start with less and add more to suit your sweet tooth.

For a thicker pudding: You can use coconut cream instead of coconut milk. Coconut cream has less water and more fat, which gives the dessert a thicker, creamier texture and deeper coconut flavor.

Storage

Black rice pudding keeps well in the fridge for about four days. Let it cool to room temperature first, then store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, warm it up on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or coconut milk to restore its creamy texture.

Creamy coconut milk surrounds black glutinous rice pudding, topped with mango chunks and shredded coconut, ready to be enjoyed with a wooden spoon.

For the best flavor and freshness, add any toppings, such as mango or toasted coconut, right before serving.

Some delicious variations

There are so many fun ways to change up black rice pudding, depending on what you already have in your kitchen. Here are a few of my favorite ideas to keep things fresh and delicious every time you make it.

Try a different sweetener: Swap out palm sugar for coconut sugar or even maple syrup for a twist. Add a touch of ground cinnamon or ginger for warmth. 

Mix in other grains: If you want to experiment, try mixing in a bit of brown rice, quinoa, or extra white sticky rice. It adds a fun new texture and makes it feel a little heartier.

A rich serving of black sticky rice pudding with sweet mango, mint garnish, and coconut flakes, being scooped up with a wooden spoon.

Change the fruit: Mango is always a winner, but you can totally go seasonal! Pineapple, bananas, berries, or even stewed apples all work beautifully. Simply add them right before serving to keep them fresh and bright.

Make it chocolatey: Yep, you heard that right—chocolate! Stir in a spoonful of cocoa powder or drop in a few dark chocolate chips at the end. It’s rich, unexpected, and completely delicious.

Tropical black rice pudding paired with vibrant mango slices and soaked in coconut milk, with a spoon digging in.

Serve it chilled: Although this dessert is typically enjoyed warm, it’s also delicious when served cold. Just pop it in the fridge and enjoy it the next day—perfect for warm weather or when you want something refreshing.

Add a little crunch: Besides topping your bowl with toasted peanuts, you could also try roasted cashews or even sesame seeds. That little bit of crunch takes the creamy texture to the next level.

Pairing dishes

This black rice pudding makes the perfect sweet finish to a cozy, Asian-inspired meal. No matter what main dish you’re serving, this coconut-rich pudding adds just the right touch of indulgence—it’s sweet and satisfying without being too heavy.

It’s especially lovely after a light meal, such as Chinese roast chicken or a quick vegetable stir-fry. You can also pair it with a cup of hot jasmine tea or an easy afternoon dessert.

Final thoughts

If you've never tried black rice desserts before, then black rice pudding is a great place to start. It's flavorful and filled with nutrients.  It is a staple in many Asian homes, and now it can be part of yours too. Let me know what you think about this Asian dessert, and happy cooking!

FAQ

Is black rice pudding gluten-free?

Yes! Black rice pudding is naturally gluten-free. Black glutinous rice contains no gluten despite the name. The term “glutinous” refers to the sticky texture, not gluten content, so it's safe for those avoiding gluten.

What is forbidden rice? Is it the same as black glutinous rice?

“Forbidden rice” is another name for black rice, once reserved for royalty in ancient China. Not all forbidden rice is glutinous (sticky), though. For desserts like pudding, you want black glutinous rice specifically for its sticky texture.

Is rice pudding meant to be served as a meal or dessert?

Traditionally, it’s a dessert, but in many cultures, it can be served as breakfast or a light snack. This version, featuring black rice and coconut, makes a filling and satisfying treat any time of the day.

Can I add other flavors to black rice pudding?

Definitely! Our recipe adds a touch of pumpkin spice to give it a warm, autumnal twist. You can also add ginger, cardamom, vanilla, or citrus zest for variation. Toasted coconut, crushed peanuts, and mango cubes make great toppings.

Can I make this black rice pudding ahead of time?

Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen it up.

Can I use an Instant Pot instead of a rice cooker?

Yes, you can absolutely use an Instant Pot instead of a rice cooker to make black rice pudding! To do this, add the rinsed black and white glutinous rice and water to the pot. Cook on high pressure for 22–25 minutes, then let it naturally release for about 10 minutes.

After that, stir in the sugar and salt, then simmer on sauté mode to thicken, if needed. Finish with your desired toppings, such as coconut cream and mango, and you’re all set!

A bowl of black sticky rice pudding garnished with mango slices and sprinkled with coconut flakes.

Easy Black Rice Pudding: A Hearty, Delicious Dessert

This black rice pudding has a nutty aroma, creamy coconut richness, and natural sweetness. It's gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.
No ratings yet
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 242kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 small mangoes cut into cubes
  • 1 cup black glutinous rice also called black sticky rice
  • 4 tablespoon white glutinous rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons coconut sugar add more based on your preference
  • ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • crushed peanuts for topping, optional
  • a few pieces of fresh mint leaves

Topping:

  • 1 can of organic coconut milk

Instructions

  • To start, rinse the black glutinous rice and white glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This helps remove excess starch and keeps the pudding from getting overly gummy.
  • Cook the rice in a rice cooker with water. As it cooks, the grains will absorb the liquid and slowly release their natural starches, turning into a thick, porridge-like pudding with a beautiful deep purple hue.
  • Once the rice is tender and most of the water has been absorbed, stir in the coconut sugar and salt right away. This helps prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Keep stirring for a couple more minutes until the sugar has fully dissolved and the pudding looks thick and glossy. Spoon the warm black rice pudding into serving bowls.
  • Drizzle coconut flakes over the top, sprinkle with roasted sesame seeds and crushed roasted peanuts. Garnish with A few fresh mint leaves on top, add a lovely pop of color and freshness.
  • Simmer the coconut milk in a pan until warm. Pour the warm coconut milk over the black rice pudding.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 242kcal | Carbohydrates: 24.8g | Protein: 3.4g | Fat: 15.75g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Sodium: 14mg | Potassium: 287mg | Fiber: 1.8g | Sugar: 10.8g | Calcium: 20.5mg | Iron: 1.7mg
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below, and tag me @sassychopsticks9 or tag #sassychopsticks9 on Instagram!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

  • A bowl filled with fresh berries sits on a rustic wooden table.
    How to Keep Summer Berries Fresh Longer at Home
  • A pan filled with colorful spices and herbs.
    Homemade Seasoning Blends You’ll Use All Year
  • A plate holding four ripe, red tomatoes with the skin peeled off.
    Step-by-Step Guide: How to Peel Tomatoes Quickly
  • Gluten free cupcakes on a white plate.
    The Best Moist and Simple Gluten-Free Cupcakes

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




me

Hey there! Welcome to SassyChopsticks.com!

I'm Yuan, a writer, world traveler, web developer, and photographer based in the U.S. My journey has taken me across multiple countries, from Malaysia to England, before I settled in Tennessee, where I've called home for nearly two decades.

More about me →

Popular

  • Cilantro in a bowl.
    How to Prep, Store, and Cook with Fresh Cilantro
  • A juicy piece of steak with a fork resting on top.
    Steak Temperature Guide for Perfect Doneness
  • Chinese scallion chicken in a white blue bowl.
    Classic Chinese Scallion Chicken Recipe in 30 Minutes
  • A pile of frozen green beans is ready to be cooked.
    How to Freeze Green Beans Without Losing Flavor

Trending recipes

  • rolls
    Chinese Egg Rolls
  • stir fry Taiwanese spinach
    Stir Fry Taiwanese Spinach with Garlic
  • Creamy coconut shrimp buffet style
    Creamy Coconut Shrimp Buffet Style- Quick and Easy
  • Chinese sponge cake
    Chinese Sponge Cake Recipe (Chiffon Cake)

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions

Newsletter

Sign Up! for emails and updates

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Cookie SettingsAccept All
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required