As summer sizzles, nothing brings a smile quite like a cool, refreshing dessert. Enter the Thai Lod Chong Dessert (Cendol)—a delightful combination of chewy pandan noodles, creamy coconut milk, and sweet syrup that perfectly captures the essence of Thai street food. This gluten-free treat doubles as a playful drink, making it perfect for hot days when you need something delicious yet light. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, inviting the whole family into the kitchen for some quality bonding. With just a few simple ingredients, your kids will love crafting these vibrant green noodles while learning about an exciting part of Thai culture. Ready to take a culinary adventure right at home? Let’s dive into this delightful summer recipe!

Why is Thai Lod Chong Dessert So Special?

Unique Flavor Fusion: Experience the delicious blend of creamy coconut milk, chewy pandan noodles, and a sweet caramel-like syrup that tantalizes your taste buds. This dessert encapsulates the flavors of Thailand in every spoonful!

Family Fun Activity: Get the whole family involved! Making the vibrant green noodles is a fun, hands-on activity that kids love, creating lasting memories in the kitchen.

Versatile Delight: Transform it effortlessly! This dessert doubles as a refreshing drink, ideal for summer gatherings or a light snack, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table.

Easy and Quick: Enjoy a delightful treat in no time. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this gluten-free recipe is perfect for weeknight cooking or weekend entertaining.

Cultural Experience: Learn about Thai culture through food! This beloved dessert highlights the region’s culinary richness and can spark conversations around family traditions and recipes. For more delightful recipes, don’t miss out on our sweet Coconut Cheese Dessert or our light and refreshing Bake Cake Dessert.

Thai Lod Chong Dessert Ingredients

For the Noodles

Rice flour – Provides structure for the noodles and is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour.
Tapioca starch – Enhances the chewy texture of the noodles; can be swapped with more rice flour in a pinch.
Pandan leaves (chopped) – Adds a fragrant aroma and vibrant green color to the noodles; if unavailable, use a few drops of pandan extract.
Water – Hydrates the dough and aids in cooking.
Calcium hydroxide – Essential for creating limewater to enhance noodle texture; follow limewater prep notes carefully as it’s not commonly substituted.

For the Coconut Milk Mixture

Coconut milk – Provides a creamy, rich base for the dessert; adjust the salt for desired sweetness.
Salt – Enhances the flavor in the coconut milk, so use to taste.

For the Syrup

Coconut sugar – Sweetens the syrup with a delightful caramel-like flavor; can be replaced with granulated sugar for a lighter sweetness.
Water (for syrup) – Helps dissolve and create a smooth syrup.

Embrace the vibrant flavors of this Thai Lod Chong Dessert, and get ready for a fun-filled cooking experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thai Lod Chong Dessert

Step 1: Prepare Limewater
To start your Thai Lod Chong Dessert, dissolve 1 tablespoon of calcium hydroxide in 1 cup of water. Let the mixture sit undisturbed for about 3 hours so the limewater can separate. Once the time is up, carefully pour off the clear liquid, leaving any sediment behind. This limewater will enhance the texture of your pandan noodles, ensuring they come out perfectly chewy.

Step 2: Extract Pandan Juice
Next, chop a handful of pandan leaves and blend them with ½ cup of the limewater you prepared. Once blended into a smooth mixture, strain the blend using a cheesecloth to extract the fragrant green pandan juice. This juice will not only give color to the noodles but also infuse a wonderful aroma, elevating your Thai Lod Chong Dessert experience.

Step 3: Make Noodle Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of rice flour and ½ cup of tapioca starch. Slowly add the pandan juice, stirring continuously until a thick, homogeneous dough forms. Keep mixing until the dough is smooth and pliable. This is a crucial step, as the quality of the dough will determine the texture of your noodles in the final Thai Lod Chong Dessert.

Step 4: Cook Dough
Transfer the noodle dough to a non-stick saucepan and heat over low heat, stirring constantly. You’ll want to do this for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns gooey. It’s essential to keep stirring to prevent clumping and ensure even cooking. Once it reaches a glossy, sticky consistency, you’re ready for the next step.

Step 5: Shape Noodles
To shape the noodles, use a lod chong press or cut a small hole in one corner of a plastic bag filled with the dough. Squeeze the dough through the opening into a pot of cold water to create long, thin noodles. These should be added to the water in small batches, allowing them to cool and firm up while you repeat the shaping process until all the dough is extruded.

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan, combine ½ cup of coconut sugar with ½ cup of water. Cook over medium heat until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly, which should take about 5–7 minutes. This syrup will add sweetness to your Thai Lod Chong Dessert, complementing the creamy coconut milk beautifully.

Step 7: Make Coconut Milk Mixture
In another pot, pour in 1 cup of coconut milk and add a pinch of salt along with a few torn pandan leaves for flavor. Heat this mixture on low for about 3 minutes, just until warmed through and fragrant. Be careful not to boil it; you want the coconut milk to stay creamy and silky for your final assembly.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve
To serve your delightful Thai Lod Chong Dessert, prepare bowls or tall glasses. Start by layering crushed ice at the bottom, followed by a generous serving of the shaped pandan noodles. Pour in the warm coconut milk mixture and drizzle with the prepared sugar syrup. For an optional touch, top with jackfruit or sweet corn for added texture and flavor. Enjoy this refreshing treat for a fun family dessert!

Thai Lod Chong Dessert Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful dessert to suit your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk with almond or oat milk for a lighter dairy-free option. Both add a unique twist while retaining creaminess.
Alternative Sweeteners: Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of coconut sugar for a different flavor profile that’s still sweet and delicious.
Fruit Toppings: Add a burst of freshness with lychee, mango, or berries instead of jackfruit or corn. These fruits complement the coconut beautifully!
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted coconut flakes or chopped peanuts on top for an added crunch and rich nutty flavor in each spoonful.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom powder in the coconut milk for a warm spice note that enhances the dessert’s aroma.
Make it a Drink: Blend ice with the dessert components and serve it as a refreshing cold drink, perfect for summer sips. The texture will remain intriguing!
Herbal Twist: Infuse the coconut milk with fresh mint or Thai basil before serving; this will add a refreshing herbal note that awakens the senses.
Colorful Noodles: Use butterfly pea flower powder along with pandan juice for a vibrant blue-green noodle that visually dazzles.

These variations are great for mixing things up, just like in other delightful recipes like our sweet Coconut Cheese Dessert or the refreshing Bake Cake Dessert. Enjoy exploring!

What to Serve with Thai Lod Chong Dessert (Cendol)

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience by pairing your Thai Lod Chong Dessert with tantalizing complements.

Coconut Sticky Rice: This sweet and slightly chewy dish mirrors the creamy coconut flavor, enhancing your dessert’s richness.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits like mango and papaya adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness with vibrant juiciness.
Thai Tea: The spiced notes of Thai tea provide a warm, aromatic counterpart to the coolness of the Lod Chong, creating a comforting duo.
Pandan Waffles: A delightful textural contrast, these waffles echo the flavors of the dessert while offering a fun breakfast or snack option.
Mango Sticky Rice: The sweet and creamy combination plays beautifully with the Lod Chong, ensuring a deliciously soft, intriguing finish.

For a festive gathering, consider adding a chilled coconut smoothie. This can be blended creamy and frothy, amplifying the tropical experience while providing an invigorating and refreshing touch to your meal.

Expert Tips for Thai Lod Chong Dessert

Stir Constantly: Keep stirring your dough while cooking to prevent clumping and achieve that delicious gooey texture perfect for the Thai Lod Chong Dessert.
Use Ice Water: When shaping the noodles, ensure the water is cold to help the noodles set properly and maintain their delightful texture.
Taste Test Syrup: Adjust the sweetness of your sugar syrup according to your preference; some prefer it sweeter while others enjoy a lighter touch.
Preserve Freshness: To maintain the texture of your noodles and coconut milk, store leftovers in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Get Creative: Explore different toppings like fruits or tapioca pearls to add a personal touch to your Thai Lod Chong Dessert and enhance its visual appeal.

Storage Tips for Thai Lod Chong Dessert

Room Temperature: Store any leftover Thai Lod Chong Dessert at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving at a gathering. After this time, it’s best to refrigerate or freeze.

Fridge: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, store the noodles and coconut milk separately.

Freezer: If you want to keep the Thai Lod Chong Dessert for longer, freeze the noodles and the coconut milk separately for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the coconut milk gently on the stove over low heat and mix with the chilled noodles. Enjoy the delightful flavors that are sure to make your taste buds dance!

Make Ahead Options

These Thai Lod Chong Dessert (Cendol) preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pandan noodles and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, keeping them separate from the coconut milk to maintain their chewy texture. The coconut milk mixture can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply rewarm the coconut milk gently on the stove and layer it over the noodles with crushed ice and syrup. This way, you’ll have a refreshing dessert ready to enjoy with minimal effort, just as delicious as when freshly made!

Thai Lod Chong Dessert (Cendol) Recipe FAQs

Why is the texture of my pandan noodles not chewy enough?
Absolutely! The key to achieving that delightful chewy texture lies in the cooking process. Make sure to continuously stir the dough over low heat until it thickens and becomes gooey—this usually takes about 10 minutes. If the mixture isn’t cooked long enough, the noodles may turn out too soft.

How can I tell if my pandan leaves are fresh?
Very important! Look for pandan leaves that are vibrant green, firm, and free of dark spots or yellowing. Fresh leaves will have a sweet aroma when crushed. If they’re limp and lose their fragrance, it’s best to find fresher ones to enhance your Thai Lod Chong Dessert.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
I often recommend storing the components separately. Keep the cooked pandan noodles and the coconut milk in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you foresee leftovers, consider freezing them! Just make sure to freeze them separately; the noodles can maintain their texture for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Can I make the pandan noodles ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pandan noodles and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just combine with the coconut milk and syrup. However, if you want to make them even further in advance, you can freeze them! Just follow these steps:

Make the noodles and allow them to cool completely.
Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag with all the air removed, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months!
When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and heat gently before serving.

Is Thai Lod Chong Dessert suitable for my lactose-intolerant friend?
Very much so! This dessert is naturally gluten-free and, since it uses coconut milk instead of dairy, it’s a great choice for those who are lactose intolerant. Always check the labels of any sweeteners or additional toppings to ensure they align with dietary needs.

What if I can’t find calcium hydroxide?
No worries at all! If you’re unable to find calcium hydroxide, your noodles can still turn out delicious. Just follow the recipe without it and aim for a slightly longer cooking time to give the dough the desired texture. The result may differ slightly, but the flavors will still be wonderfully inviting in your Thai Lod Chong Dessert!