Banh Lot Recipe – A Traditional Vietnamese Sweet Dessert

Banh Lot is a delicious Vietnamese dessert made from chewy rice flour dough flavored with pandan and topped with creamy coconut milk. Known for its beautiful green color, smooth texture, and aromatic flavors, this dish is a favorite among those who love Southeast Asian sweets. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or as an everyday treat, this recipe will guide you through every step of creating an authentic Banh Lot that’s sure to impress.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 25

Total Time 55

Servings: 4

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Vietnamese

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Dough:
2 cups of glutinous rice flour
1/2 cup of warm water adjust as needed
2-3 tablespoons of pandan extract or pandan paste
A pinch of salt optional, for balance
For the Coconut Milk Sauce:
1 cup of coconut milk full-fat for a creamy texture
3 tablespoons of sugar adjust to taste
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract optional, for added flavor
For Garnish:
Shredded coconut flakes optional, for extra texture

Equipment

Large mixing bowl for dough preparation
Steaming pot or bamboo steamer (to steam the dough)
Sieve or cheesecloth (for extracting pandan flavor)
Small saucepan (for making coconut milk topping)
Wooden spoon or spatula (for mixing the dough)
Measuring spoons and cups
Cutting board and knife (for chopping pandan leaves)
Fine mesh strainer (for straining the pandan extract)

Method

Prepare Pandan Extract: Blend chopped pandan leaves with warm water, then strain to get the juice.
Make Dough: Mix glutinous rice flour, salt, pandan extract, and warm water to form a dough. Let it rest.
Shape Dough: Roll dough into small cylinders.
Steam: Steam dough pieces for 15-20 minutes until firm and translucent.
Make Coconut Sauce: Heat coconut milk and sugar until sugar dissolves.
Assemble: Place steamed dough on a plate, drizzle with coconut sauce, and top with shredded coconut.

Notes

Pandan Extract: Use pandan paste or extract if fresh leaves aren’t available.

Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives the creamiest texture.

Sweetness: Adjust sugar in the coconut milk sauce to your taste.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Serving Variations: Top with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for extra flavor.