Sữa Chua Nếp Cẩm is a popular Vietnamese dessert that beautifully combines creamy yogurt with chewy, slightly sweet black sticky rice. It’s refreshing, mildly tangy, and naturally aromatic—making it a favorite street snack and healthy dessert across Vietnam.

The contrast of textures is what makes this dish special: cool yogurt, sticky grains, and a hint of coconut richness.

🌾 Ingredients

For black sticky rice:

  • 1 cup black glutinous rice (purple sticky rice)
  • 2.5–3 cups water
  • 2–3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 100 ml coconut milk (optional but highly recommended)

For yogurt:

  • 1 liter milk (fresh full cream milk works best)
  • 2–3 tbsp condensed milk (for sweetness)
  • 1 small cup plain yogurt (starter culture)

🍚 Step 1: Cook the black sticky rice

  1. Wash rice thoroughly until water runs clear.
  2. Soak for at least 4–6 hours (overnight is best).
  3. Cook with water until soft and slightly sticky (like porridge but still textured).
  4. Add sugar and salt while warm.
  5. Stir in coconut milk for extra creaminess.
  6. Let it cool to room temperature.

✔ The rice should be soft but still chewy—not mushy.

🥛 Step 2: Make homemade yogurt (optional but traditional)

  1. Warm milk until slightly hot (not boiling).
  2. Mix in condensed milk until dissolved.
  3. Let mixture cool to about 40–45°C.
  4. Stir in yogurt starter gently.
  5. Pour into small jars.
  6. Incubate for 6–8 hours in a warm place.
  7. Refrigerate once set.

🍨 Step 3: Assemble the dessert

  1. Add a layer of cooked black sticky rice into a glass or bowl.
  2. Spoon chilled yogurt on top.
  3. Drizzle with coconut milk if desired.
  4. Mix slightly before eating or enjoy layered.

❄️ Serving Style

Sữa Chua Nếp Cẩm is usually served:

  • Chilled for a refreshing summer dessert
  • As a street snack in cups or bowls
  • With extra coconut cream for richness

🌟 Tips for Best Flavor

  • Soak rice long enough for soft texture
  • Don’t overcook yogurt culture (keep warm, not hot)
  • Use thick coconut milk for authentic taste
  • Adjust sweetness based on preference

🥥 Final Thoughts

Sữa Chua Nếp Cẩm is a perfect balance of health and indulgence. The creamy tang of yogurt blends beautifully with the nutty, earthy black rice, while coconut milk adds a luxurious finish.

It’s a dessert that feels both traditional and modern—simple, nourishing, and deeply satisfying.