sticky rice balls recipe
The Best sticky rice balls recipe
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a special treat for your family, these little balls of goodness are sure to please.

Sticky Rice Balls
These sticky rice balls are soft, chewy, and lightly sweetened, perfect for a comforting dessert or snack. Made from glutinous rice flour and filled with a sweet paste, they are boiled until tender and served in a warm ginger syrup.
🥘Ingredients
For the Rice Balls
For the Ginger Syrup
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Sticky Rice Balls Works
One thing I love about sticky rice balls is how well they hold up when stored in an airtight container at room temperature – they stay fresh for up to 3 days!
If you do happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely), just pop them in the freezer and reheat when needed.
And don’t forget about reheating ideas – these little guys pair perfectly with all sorts of toppings like fresh fruit slices or whipped cream.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sticky Rice Balls
1. What are sticky rice balls made of?
Sticky rice balls are made primarily from glutinous rice flour, also called sweet rice flour, and water. The fillings vary but common ones include black sesame paste, peanut butter, red bean paste, or even crushed peanuts mixed with sugar. The dough is simply the flour and water, no eggs or oil needed.
2. Can I make sticky rice balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them ahead of time. After shaping the balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you are ready to cook them, drop them directly into boiling water from frozen. No need to thaw first.
3. Why did my sticky rice balls fall apart in the water?
This usually happens if the dough is too dry or if the filling is not sealed properly. Make sure your dough is soft and pliable, not cracking. When you wrap the filling, pinch the edges tightly and roll the ball gently between your palms to smooth out any seams. Also, do not overcrowd the pot, give them space to cook evenly.
4. How do I store leftover cooked sticky rice balls?
Store cooked sticky rice balls in a bowl of water in the refrigerator for up to two days. They will absorb some water and become softer, so it is best to eat them the same day. If you want to reheat them, just simmer them in hot water or soup for a minute or two until warmed through.
5. Can I use regular rice flour instead of glutinous rice flour?
No, regular rice flour will not work because it does not have the same sticky, chewy texture. Glutinous rice flour is essential for the soft and elastic consistency. You can find it in most Asian grocery stores or online. It is sometimes labeled as sweet rice flour or mochiko.
6. What is the best way to serve sticky rice balls?
The most common way is to serve them in a warm, sweet ginger syrup. To make the syrup, boil water with rock sugar and sliced ginger until the sugar dissolves. You can also serve them in a coconut milk soup or even with just a drizzle of honey. For a cold treat, chill the cooked balls and serve them in a bowl of cold syrup or sweetened milk.