The tantalizing aroma of frying dough wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the bustling streets of Cambodia, where the air is filled with the irresistible scent of fresh Num Kong. These Cambodian donuts, with their chewy interiors and crispy exteriors, are a beloved treat that I can’t seem to resist. The first bite is pure bliss, as their subtle sweetness, combined with a rich glaze, brings a comforting warmth that feels like a hug from the inside out.

I discovered this recipe by chance while experimenting with glutinous rice flour, and now it has become a staple in my home. They’re not just simple to make; they also offer endless possibilities for creativity. Whether served at a cozy afternoon gathering or as a delectable dessert after dinner, these donuts are sure to impress! So, grab your apron, and let’s transform a few basic ingredients into a delicious delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why Are Cambodian Donuts So Irresistible?

Deliciously Unique: Cambodian donuts bring a distinct blend of flavors to your dessert table— a perfect twist on your usual sweets!
Texture Delight: With a chewy center wrapped in a crispy crust, these treats offer a satisfying bite you won’t forget.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients at home, making them easy to whip up whenever a sweet craving strikes.
Cultural Experience: Each bite tells a story, immersing you in Cambodian culture while you enjoy these traditional delights.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, serve them warm as a dessert or with tea for a lovely snack!

Cambodian Donuts Ingredients

Note: Gather these simple ingredients to whip up a batch of delightful Cambodian donuts!

For the Dough

Glutinous Rice Flour – Provides the chewy texture essential for traditional Cambodian donuts; substitute with sweet rice flour if necessary.
Rice Flour – Adds lightness and softness to the donuts; can be swapped with all-purpose flour in a pinch, though texture may vary.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; a pinch is essential in dessert recipes.
Coconut Milk – Contributes creaminess and moisture; use full-fat coconut milk for the best results or almond milk as a vegan alternative.
Palm Sugar – Sweetener that adds a distinct caramel flavor; brown sugar can be used as a substitute but will change the taste slightly.

For Frying

Cooking Oil – Required for deep-frying; vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work interchangeably.

For the Glaze

Water – Helps in caramelizing palm sugar for the glaze.
Sesame Seeds (toasted) – Adds a rich flavor and texture to the glaze; optional for a simpler version.

How to Make Cambodian Donuts

Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, rice flour, and a pinch of salt. Stir them well to evenly blend the dry ingredients.
Combine with Coconut Milk: Gradually mix in the coconut milk. Keep stirring until a smooth dough forms, feeling its consistency change as you create a soft base.
Add Palm Sugar: Gently introduce the palm sugar to the dough. Stir it until completely melted and mixed in, enhancing the sweetness that defines these delightful treats.
Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 2 minutes. Aim for a smooth and slightly elastic texture, which is crucial for that classic chewy bite.
Rest the Dough: Cover the kneaded dough with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This step allows the dough to relax and makes shaping easier.

For Shaping and Frying:

Shape the Donuts: Roll the rested dough into small balls, then shape each ball into a rope and form circles by pressing the ends together, creating that classic donut shape.
Heat the Oil: Heat oil in a deep pan to about 280ºF – 300ºF (145ºC). Use a thermometer for accuracy; the right temperature is key to crispy outcomes!
Fry the Donuts: Carefully place the shaped donuts in the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they float and turn a delightful golden brown.
Cool Down: Once fried, place the donuts on a cooling rack to drain excess oil. This step helps maintain their crispiness.

For the Glaze:

Toast the Sesame Seeds: In a dry pan, toast sesame seeds until golden. Transfer them to a bowl and set aside to add a nutty flavor to your glaze.
Prepare the Glaze: In the same pan, combine palm sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture starts bubbling, creating a rich glaze.
Glaze the Donuts: Mix in the toasted sesame seeds and dip the tops of the warm donuts into the glaze. Allow the glaze to harden on a cooling rack.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy these delightful Cambodian donuts warm for the best taste and texture.

Optional: Drizzle with extra palm sugar for added sweetness!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Cambodian Donuts

Room Temperature: Store Cambodian donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. They are best enjoyed fresh, as the texture will change over time.

Fridge: While not recommended, if you need to store them longer, you can keep the donuts in the fridge for up to 3 days, though they will lose their crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unglazed donuts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat before serving for the best results.

Reheating: To regain some texture, reheat the donuts in an oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Make Ahead Options

These Cambodian donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the glutinous rice flour, rice flour, salt, coconut milk, and palm sugar, then kneading it until smooth. After resting the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its quality. Additionally, you can shape the donuts into their rounds and refrigerate them for just as long, allowing for quick frying when you’re ready to serve. When you’re set to enjoy these treats, simply heat the oil and fry the donuts until golden brown, resulting in a delightful snack that’s just as delicious as the fresh-made version!

What to Serve with Cambodian Donuts?

Complement your culinary journey with a delightful array of side dishes and beverages that perfectly pair with the sweet, chewy bliss of Cambodian donuts.

Steamy Coconut Rice: This aromatic dish complements the flavors of the donuts, with its creamy texture and subtle sweetness enhancing your dessert experience.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of vibrant fruits brings a refreshing contrast to the rich glaze, adding brightness to each bite you take.
Thai Iced Tea: The creamy, sweet notes of this beverage balance perfectly with the donuts’ richness, creating a delightful sipping experience.
Mango Sticky Rice: Another sweet treat that mirrors the flavors of palm sugar, this dessert elevates any gathering, leaving everyone wanting more.
Sesame Cookies: Crunchy and nutty, these snacks add a lovely texture contrast to the soft, chewy donuts you’ve just made.
Coconut Milkshake: Creamy and indulgent, this shake doubles down on the coconut flavor, making for a luscious pairing that’s hard to resist.

Tasting each combination will invite you into a world of flavors and textures, turning your homemade Cambodian donuts into the star of the occasion!

Expert Tips for Perfect Cambodian Donuts

Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is between 280ºF – 300ºF (145ºC). This prevents soggy donuts and gives them that perfect crispy exterior.
Dough Consistency: Knead until the dough is smooth and slightly elastic. This texture is key for achieving the classic chewy bite that makes Cambodian donuts irresistible.
Glaze Timing: Dip your donuts in the glaze while they are still warm. This allows the glaze to adhere better and enhances the overall flavor of your Cambodian donuts.
Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which maintains the oil temperature for better frying results and ensures evenly cooked donuts.
Freshness is Key: Serve these delicious treats immediately after glazing. Cambodian donuts are best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

Cambodian Donuts Variations

Customize your Cambodian donuts for a delightful twist that matches your taste buds’ desires!

Vanilla Infusion: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for a warm, aromatic flavor boost that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts like cashews or peanuts for extra crunch and a nutty punch in every bite. They add texture and an unexpected layer of flavor.
Coconut Twist: Substitute half the coconut milk with coconut cream to enhance the richness and coconut flavor. It’s a dreamy upgrade for coconut lovers!
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the glazed donuts for a chocolaty finish that creates a rich contrast with the sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the dough for a gentle heat that balances the sweetness perfectly. This twist adds excitement to every bite!
Fruit Zest: Incorporate citrus zest like lime or orange into the dough for a refreshing zing that brightens up the flavors.
Herbal Essence: Infuse the glaze with fresh mint or basil for a unique herbal note. It’s an unexpected twist that elevates the overall taste experience.
Alternative Sweeteners: Swap palm sugar with maple syrup or honey in the glaze for a different flavor profile and a delightful new dimension.

Feel free to experiment and make these Cambodian donuts your own!

Cambodian Donuts (Num Kong) Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right glutinous rice flour?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for glutinous rice flour that is specifically labeled for making desserts. It should be fine and powdery, with no lumps, and ideally, it should have a slight sheen. If the package indicates “sweet rice flour,” that’s a great option too! Avoid using regular rice flour, as it won’t give you the desired chewy texture.

How should I store Cambodian donuts after making them?
These delightful treats are best enjoyed fresh on the same day. However, if you must store them, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, refrigerate them, but keep in mind they’ll lose some of their crispness.

Can I freeze Cambodian donuts?
Absolutely! For freezing, it’s best to freeze the unglazed donuts. Wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, and then glaze for that fresh taste!

What should I do if the donuts turn out too greasy?
Very good question! If your Cambodian donuts are greasy, it might be due to oil that’s not hot enough. Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (280ºF – 300ºF or 145ºC). If they soak up too much oil, you can also have a cooling rack on hand to drain excess oil immediately after frying. Last but not least, always fry in small batches to avoid temperature drops!

Are Cambodian donuts safe for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! While the recipe includes sesame seeds in the glaze, they can be easily omitted if you’re dealing with nut allergies. Additionally, palm sugar and coconut milk do not contain nuts, making this a more allergy-friendly dessert option. Just be sure to double-check any substitutes you may try to ensure they’re safe for your dietary needs!

What if my glaze doesn’t stick to the donuts?
If your glaze isn’t sticking, consider dipping the donuts while they are still warm, as this allows for better adhesion. If they’ve cooled too much, you can warm them up slightly in the oven to make the glaze adhere more effectively. Additionally, ensure your glaze has reached the right consistency—it should be thick enough to coat without dripping too much!