Name: Thai Coconut Custard (Khanom Thuai)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: For the Bottom Layer:; 1/2 cup rice flour; 1/4 cup tapioca flour; 3/4 cup pandan juice (or water + pandan extract); 3/4 cup palm sugar or brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; For the Top Layer:; 1/2 cup coconut cream; 2 tablespoons rice flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, you’ll love this traditional Thai dessert—Khanom Thuai, or Thai Coconut Custard. This dessert features two delicious layers: a pandan-infused base and a lightly salted coconut cream topping. Steamed to perfection, these custards offer a silky, smooth texture with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply craving a tropical treat, this Thai Coconut Custard is sure to delight your taste buds.

Thai Coconut Custard (Khanom Thuai)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thai Coconut Custard (Khanom Thuai) is a beautiful and flavorful dessert that’s both light and indulgent. The combination of pandan juice with its unique, aromatic flavor and the rich coconut cream topping creates a wonderfully complex taste. Steaming the custard gives it a soft, delicate texture that melts in your mouth. The best part? This dessert is gluten-free, making it an ideal option for those with dietary restrictions. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a perfect snack or treat that will transport you straight to Thailand with every bite.

Ingredients

For the Bottom Layer:

1/2 cup rice flour
1/4 cup tapioca flour
3/4 cup pandan juice (or water + pandan extract)
3/4 cup palm sugar or brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Top Layer:

1/2 cup coconut cream
2 tablespoons rice flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Lightly grease 12 small ceramic cups or use a mini muffin pan.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the rice flour, tapioca flour, pandan juice, palm sugar, and salt for the bottom layer until smooth.
Pour the bottom layer mixture into the prepared cups, filling them halfway.
Steam the cups over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, or until the bottom layer is just set.
While the bottom layer is steaming, whisk the coconut cream, rice flour, and salt for the top layer until smooth.
Once the bottom layer is set, pour the coconut cream mixture over the steamed base, filling the cups to the top.
Steam the custards for an additional 5-7 minutes until the top layer is fully set.
Remove from heat and let the custards cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled for the best experience.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 small custards
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

Flavored Custard: If you prefer a flavored twist, you can add a few drops of vanilla or almond extract to the bottom layer.
Different Sweeteners: Palm sugar provides a deep caramel-like sweetness, but you can use brown sugar or coconut sugar as an alternative.
Larger Batch: If you need to make more, simply double the recipe and use a larger pan or multiple muffin tins.
Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly version, substitute coconut cream with a non-dairy alternative, such as cashew cream.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover custards in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The custards are best enjoyed fresh, but they will keep well for a couple of days.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the custard.
Reheating: To reheat, steam them briefly or microwave for a few seconds to warm them back up.

FAQs

Can I make the pandan juice myself?

Yes, you can make pandan juice by blending fresh pandan leaves with water and then straining the mixture. This will give you the most authentic flavor.

What if I can’t find pandan juice?

If you can’t find pandan juice, you can use pandan extract mixed with water to create a similar flavor, though the taste may not be as strong as the fresh pandan juice.

Can I use other types of flour for the bottom layer?

Rice flour and tapioca flour are traditional for this recipe, but if you don’t have them, you can try other gluten-free flours like cornstarch or potato flour, though it might slightly change the texture.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dessert ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. The custards are actually delicious when chilled!

How do I steam the custards if I don’t have a steamer?

You can use a large pot with a lid and place a steaming rack or a heatproof plate inside. Add water to the pot, ensuring it doesn’t touch the custards, and cover to steam.

Can I use regular sugar instead of palm sugar?

Yes, you can substitute palm sugar with brown sugar or regular granulated sugar. However, palm sugar adds a unique caramel-like taste, which is more traditional to this dessert.

How do I know when the custards are done steaming?

The custards are done when both the bottom and top layers are set and firm to the touch. You can gently shake the cups to check for any movement.

What is the best way to serve Thai Coconut Custard?

You can serve these custards warm or chilled, depending on your preference. They make a great treat on a hot day when chilled!

Can I use coconut milk instead of coconut cream?

Coconut milk will work, but it’s thinner than coconut cream. For a richer texture, it’s best to stick with coconut cream, though coconut milk can still give you a delicious result.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, Thai Coconut Custard is naturally gluten-free as it uses rice flour and tapioca flour in the recipe.

Conclusion

Thai Coconut Custard (Khanom Thuai) is a wonderfully indulgent yet light dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of the fragrant pandan base and rich coconut cream topping creates a deliciously unique treat that will transport you to Thailand with every bite. Steamed to perfection, these custards have a silky, delicate texture that melts in your mouth, offering the ideal balance of sweetness and saltiness. Whether you’re serving it for a special gathering or as a refreshing snack, this dessert is sure to be a hit!

Thai Coconut Custard (Khanom Thuai)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe