Let me tell you, the aroma of sweet glutinous rice mingling with fragrant dried fruits and nuts is downright irresistible. The first time I made this Flavorful Eight Treasure Rice sweet glutinous dessert, I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. It was years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, that my grandma would serve this festive dish during Lunar New Year celebrations. The warmth, the subtle sweetness, and the chewy texture made it a family favorite right from the start.
You know what’s funny? I wish I’d discovered an easy homemade version of this recipe way earlier—it’s dangerously easy to make and packs pure, nostalgic comfort in every bite. My family couldn’t stop sneaking it off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a cozy night in, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your Pinterest cookie board, this Flavorful Eight Treasure Rice recipe hits the mark every single time.
After testing it multiple times in the name of research, of course, it’s become a staple for family gatherings and gifting. Honestly, this sweet glutinous dessert feels like a warm hug wrapped in a bowl—you’re going to want to bookmark this one.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Flavorful Eight Treasure Rice recipe isn’t just your typical sweet glutinous dessert—it’s a tested, family-approved treat that stands out for so many reasons. Having made it countless times, I’ve gathered some tips and tricks that make it truly shine:
- Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 1 hour, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dessert cravings.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery hunts here—you probably already have most items in your pantry.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Great for Lunar New Year, family dinners, or special occasions needing a touch of tradition.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike who love that chewy, sweet texture.
- Unbelievably Delicious: The blend of glutinous rice, sweet red bean paste, dried fruits, and nuts creates a flavor and texture combo that’s next-level comfort food.
What makes this recipe different? Well, I blend a bit of coconut milk into the glutinous rice for an ultra-smooth, rich texture and use a perfectly balanced mix of eight treasures—including lotus seeds, dried longans, and red dates—that add natural sweetness and crunch. This isn’t just another version; it’s the one you’ll come back to again and again. It’s comfort food reimagined—not overly sweet, but soul-soothing and satisfying. Perfect for impressing guests without the fuss or turning a simple meal into a cozy, memorable moment.
What Ingredients You Will Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples or easy to find at Asian markets. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Glutinous rice (also called sticky rice, 2 cups / 400g, rinsed and soaked for at least 4 hours)
- Coconut milk (1 cup / 240ml, adds richness and creaminess)
- Rock sugar or granulated sugar (1/3 cup / 70g, adjust to taste)
- Red bean paste (1/2 cup / 120g, smooth and sweet, I recommend brands like Lee Kum Kee for best texture)
- Lotus seeds (1/4 cup / 40g, soaked and cooked, adds a tender bite)
- Dried longans (1/4 cup / 40g, provides natural sweetness)
- Red dates (jujubes) (1/4 cup / 40g, pitted and chopped)
- Goji berries (2 tablespoons, for a pop of color and nutrition)
- Walnuts or almonds (1/4 cup / 30g, toasted and chopped, adds crunch)
- Chestnuts (optional, 1/4 cup / 40g, peeled and chopped)
- Water (for soaking and steaming)
If you can’t find lotus seeds or chestnuts, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are fine substitutes. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk is perfect, but you could swap in almond milk if needed (though texture changes slightly). In summer, try swapping dried longans for fresh lychees or berries for a fresh twist.
Equipment Needed
To make this Flavorful Eight Treasure Rice dessert, you’ll want a few kitchen tools:
- Steamer setup: A bamboo steamer or metal steaming rack works great for cooking the glutinous rice evenly.
- Large mixing bowl: For soaking and mixing the rice with coconut milk and sugar.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: To gently fold the ingredients without breaking the rice grains.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
- Heatproof dish or cake pan: To assemble and steam the dessert.
If you don’t have a dedicated steamer, a large pot with a steaming rack or even a colander over boiling water can do the trick. Personally, I prefer a bamboo steamer—it’s budget-friendly, easy to clean, and adds a subtle aroma to the rice. Just make sure to cover the lid with a clean towel to catch condensation and avoid soggy rice.
Preparation Method
- Soak the glutinous rice: Rinse 2 cups (400g) of glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in enough water to cover for at least 4 hours or overnight (around 8 hours is best). This ensures tender, chewy rice after steaming. (Approx. 5 minutes)
- Prepare the lotus seeds: Soak 1/4 cup (40g) of dried lotus seeds in warm water for 1 hour. Then simmer in fresh water until soft, about 20 minutes. Drain and set aside. (Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes)
- Toast nuts: Lightly toast 1/4 cup (30g) walnuts or almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Chop roughly and set aside. (Approx. 5 minutes)
- Mix rice and coconut milk: Drain the soaked rice and transfer to a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk and 1/3 cup (70g) rock sugar or granulated sugar until evenly combined. The rice should be well coated but not swimming in liquid. (Approx. 5 minutes)
- Assemble the eight treasures: In your heatproof dish (about 8-inch / 20cm round), layer half the rice mixture evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of 1/2 cup (120g) red bean paste across the rice. Sprinkle lotus seeds, dried longans (1/4 cup / 40g), red dates (1/4 cup / 40g), goji berries (2 tbsp), toasted nuts, and optional chestnuts evenly over. Top with the remaining rice mixture, pressing gently to level. (Approx. 10 minutes)
- Steam the dessert: Bring water to a boil in your steamer setup. Place the dish on the steaming rack and cover with a tight-fitting lid (or wrap with foil then cover). Steam over medium-high heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check water level occasionally and replenish if needed. (Approx. 45-60 minutes)
- Cool and serve: Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly (about 10 minutes) before slicing into squares or scooping portions. The rice will firm up as it cools, making it easier to serve. (Approx. 10 minutes)
Pro tip: If the rice feels dry after steaming, brush a little warm coconut milk on top before serving to keep it moist and luscious. You’ll know it’s perfectly cooked when the rice grains are tender but still chewy, and the aroma is sweet and inviting.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Cooking glutinous rice can be a bit tricky if you’re new to it, but a few tips make all the difference:
- Don’t skip soaking: Soaking the glutinous rice is key for that signature chewy texture. Skipping this step can leave the rice hard and unevenly cooked.
- Keep the steaming water topped up: Running out of water mid-steam can lead to uneven cooking or burnt bottom. I usually keep a kettle handy to top up as needed.
- Use a tight-fitting lid: This traps steam and helps the rice cook evenly. If your lid leaks steam, wrap it with a clean kitchen towel to catch drips.
- Mix gently: When combining ingredients, fold carefully to avoid breaking rice grains and keep the texture intact.
- Be patient: Glutinous rice needs longer to cook than regular rice. Rushing it will leave you with undercooked, unpleasantly hard bits.
- Experiment with sweetness: Adjust sugar to your taste. I find rock sugar gives a cleaner sweetness, but brown sugar adds a nice caramel note.
From personal experience, I’ve learned that steaming the dessert for less than 45 minutes results in a gummy center. Trust the time, and the results will reward you every time.
Variations & Adaptations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible—perfect if you want to cater to different tastes or dietary needs.
- Vegan & Dairy-Free: Stick with coconut milk and avoid any honey or non-vegan sweeteners. It’s naturally vegan and creamy.
- Gluten-Free: Glutinous rice is naturally gluten-free, making this dessert safe for gluten-sensitive folks.
- Fruity Twist: Swap dried longans and red dates for dried apricots, figs, or even fresh seasonal fruits like mango or berries for a fresher flavor.
- Nut-Free: Omit nuts and replace with toasted seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds if allergies are a concern.
- Different Cooking Method: Try baking the assembled dish covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour as an alternative to steaming—results are slightly denser but just as tasty.
One variation I love is adding a splash of orange blossom water or rose water to the coconut milk before mixing—it adds a delicate floral note that’s unexpected but delightful.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This sweet glutinous dessert is best served warm or at room temperature. The texture is chewy and tender, and the flavors blossom as it cools slightly.
Pair it with a cup of jasmine tea or lightly sweetened green tea to balance the richness. It also makes a lovely finish to a festive meal or a cozy afternoon treat.
To store, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions wrapped in foil and plastic wrap for up to 1 month.
Reheat by steaming gently or microwaving with a splash of water or coconut milk to restore moisture. Flavors often deepen after a day or two in the fridge, so leftovers can be even better!
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Per serving (based on 8 servings): approximately 250 calories, 5g fat, 45g carbohydrates, 2g protein.
This dessert features glutinous rice, which provides a good source of energy through complex carbs. The nuts contribute healthy fats and protein, while dried fruits bring antioxidants and vitamins.
It is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan with ease. Note that it contains nuts and dried fruits, so be mindful of allergies. The moderate sugar content can be adjusted according to your preference.
From a wellness perspective, the combination of coconut milk and nutrient-rich “eight treasures” offers a comforting treat that feels indulgent without overdoing it. It’s a great choice for those wanting a traditional sweet that’s wholesome and satisfying.
Conclusion
If you’ve been searching for an easy homemade sweet glutinous dessert that’s both flavorful and steeped in tradition, this Flavorful Eight Treasure Rice recipe is a winner. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor, and share with loved ones. Customize it with your favorite nuts and fruits, or keep it classic—the results are always delightful.
Personally, I love how this recipe brings a sense of warmth and family history to the table, making every bite feel like a little celebration. Don’t be shy to tweak the sweetness or textures to suit your taste—it’s all part of the fun.
Give it a try, and I’d love to hear your thoughts or any creative spins you put on it. Share your experience in the comments and spread the joy of this sweet glutinous dessert with friends and family—you might just start a new tradition!
FAQs
What is Eight Treasure Rice dessert?
It’s a traditional Chinese sweet glutinous rice dish made with sticky rice, red bean paste, nuts, and dried fruits—often served during festive occasions.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and gently reheat by steaming or microwaving before serving.
What if I don’t have a steamer?
You can use a large pot with a steaming rack or even bake it covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour as an alternative.
Can I substitute the dried fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite dried or fresh fruits like apricots, figs, or berries depending on season and preference.
Is glutinous rice the same as sticky rice?
Yes, glutinous rice is also called sticky rice. It becomes chewy and sticky when cooked, perfect for this dessert’s texture.
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Flavorful Eight Treasure Rice Recipe Easy Homemade Sweet Glutinous Dessert
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A traditional Chinese sweet glutinous rice dessert made with sticky rice, red bean paste, nuts, and dried fruits, perfect for festive occasions and family gatherings. This recipe blends coconut milk for a rich texture and features a balanced mix of eight treasures for natural sweetness and crunch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (400g) glutinous rice (sticky rice), rinsed and soaked for at least 4 hours
- 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
- 1/3 cup (70g) rock sugar or granulated sugar, adjust to taste
- 1/2 cup (120g) red bean paste
- 1/4 cup (40g) lotus seeds, soaked and cooked
- 1/4 cup (40g) dried longans
- 1/4 cup (40g) red dates (jujubes), pitted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons goji berries
- 1/4 cup (30g) walnuts or almonds, toasted and chopped
- 1/4 cup (40g) chestnuts (optional), peeled and chopped
- Water (for soaking and steaming)
Instructions
- Rinse 2 cups (400g) of glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in enough water to cover for at least 4 hours or overnight (around 8 hours is best).
- Soak 1/4 cup (40g) of dried lotus seeds in warm water for 1 hour. Then simmer in fresh water until soft, about 20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Lightly toast 1/4 cup (30g) walnuts or almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Chop roughly and set aside.
- Drain the soaked rice and transfer to a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk and 1/3 cup (70g) rock sugar or granulated sugar until evenly combined. The rice should be well coated but not swimming in liquid.
- In a heatproof dish (about 8-inch / 20cm round), layer half the rice mixture evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of 1/2 cup (120g) red bean paste across the rice. Sprinkle lotus seeds, dried longans (1/4 cup / 40g), red dates (1/4 cup / 40g), goji berries (2 tbsp), toasted nuts, and optional chestnuts evenly over. Top with the remaining rice mixture, pressing gently to level.
- Bring water to a boil in your steamer setup. Place the dish on the steaming rack and cover with a tight-fitting lid (or wrap with foil then cover). Steam over medium-high heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check water level occasionally and replenish if needed.
- Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly (about 10 minutes) before slicing into squares or scooping portions. The rice will firm up as it cools, making it easier to serve.
Notes
If the rice feels dry after steaming, brush a little warm coconut milk on top before serving to keep it moist and luscious. Use a tight-fitting lid or cover the lid with a clean towel to catch condensation and avoid soggy rice. Keep the steaming water topped up to prevent uneven cooking or burning. Soaking the rice is essential for chewy texture. Adjust sugar to taste; rock sugar gives a cleaner sweetness, brown sugar adds caramel notes. Can be baked covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour as an alternative to steaming.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/8 of th
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Protein: 2
Keywords: eight treasure rice, sweet glutinous rice, sticky rice dessert, Chinese dessert, Lunar New Year dessert, red bean paste, coconut milk dessert, traditional Chinese sweet
