How to Make Simple Sweets with 5 Ingredients

If you’re craving a quick and delicious treat made with minimal effort, this Simple Sweet with 5 Ingredients recipe is perfect for you. It’s a delightful, flourless dessert that requires just a handful of pantry staples. The combination of glutinous rice flour and potato starch creates a chewy, satisfying texture, while a hint of sweetness makes it irresistible.

Ideal for anyone looking for an economical and easy-to-make dessert, this recipe is great for snacking or impressing guests with something unique. Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Minimal Ingredients: Only five basic ingredients are needed, with cocoa powder as an optional garnish.

No Oven Needed: This stovetop recipe is simple and fuss-free.
Customizable: You can flavor or garnish these sweets to suit your taste.
Gluten-Free: Made with glutinous rice flour and potato starch, it’s naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

3/4 cup milk (200 ml)
2 tablespoons glutinous rice flour
2 tablespoons potato starch

1 pinch salt
3 tablespoons sugar

Optional:

Cocoa powder (for dusting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by placing the glutinous rice flour in a saucepan. Add the potato starch, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix these ingredients together to ensure an even distribution.

Step 2: Add Milk

Pour the milk into the saucepan with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 3: Heat the Mixture

Place the saucepan over low heat and begin stirring continuously. As the mixture heats up, it will thicken and become sticky. This process should take about 5–7 minutes. Be patient and keep stirring to avoid lumps or sticking.

Step 4: Shape the Mixture

Once the mixture is thick and sticky, remove it from the heat and transfer it onto a clean plate. While it’s still warm, shape it into an even square or rectangular block using a spatula or your hands (be careful—it may be hot).

Step 5: Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the shaped mixture for at least 30 minutes. This allows it to firm up and become easier to handle. After chilling, cut it into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 6: Optional Garnish

If desired, dust some or all of the pieces with cocoa powder for a touch of bitterness that complements the sweetness.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

Ensure that your glutinous rice flour and potato starch are fresh for the best texture and consistency.

2. Avoid High Heat

Cooking over low heat is crucial to prevent burning and ensure an even, smooth texture.

3. Shape While Warm

The mixture is easiest to shape while it’s still warm. If it cools too much, it may become harder to handle.

4. Experiment with Flavors

Add a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or even matcha powder to the mixture for different flavor profiles.

5. Customize the Garnish

Swap cocoa powder for powdered sugar, grated coconut, or finely chopped nuts for a personalized touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is glutinous rice flour?

Glutinous rice flour, also known as sweet rice flour, is made from sticky rice. Despite the name, it’s gluten-free and is used to create chewy textures in desserts.

2. Can I substitute potato starch?

Yes, you can use cornstarch as a substitute, but the texture may vary slightly. Potato starch gives a smoother, silkier consistency.

3. Is this dessert gluten-free?

Yes! Both glutinous rice flour and potato starch are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

4. Can I use a plant-based milk?

Absolutely! Almond, coconut, or oat milk are great alternatives if you want a dairy-free version.

5. How should I store these sweets?

Store the cut pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

6. Can I freeze the sweets?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change when thawed.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Sweet with 5 Ingredients is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Its chewy, soft texture and delicate sweetness make it a versatile treat for any occasion. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, customizable, and budget-friendly.

Why not give it a try today? You’ll be amazed at how such a simple recipe can yield such a delicious result. Enjoy!