Crispy on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside, these Sesame Balls are a classic Asian dessert or snack. Made from a combination of glutinous rice flour and all-purpose flour, they’re subtly sweet and coated in nutty sesame seeds. Perfectly golden after frying, they’re best enjoyed warm and fresh from the pan.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Uses easy-to-find ingredients
Perfectly crispy outside and chewy inside
Quick to prepare—ready in 20 minutes
Naturally gluten-free with high-quality glutinous rice flour
Ingredients Breakdown:
Glutinous Rice Flour (1 cup / 120g) – Creates a chewy, stretchy texture that’s essential for the classic sesame ball consistency.
All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup / 60g) – Adds structure and helps balance the chewiness.
Warm Water (1/4 cup / 60ml) – Helps activate the dough and binds the flours together.
Milk (1/4 cup / 60ml) – Adds moisture and a hint of richness to the dough.
Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp / 25g) – Lightly sweetens the dough without overpowering.
Salt (1/4 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness.
Sesame Seeds (1/4 cup / 30g) – Create a toasty, nutty coating that crisps up beautifully during frying.
Tips and Tricks:
Keep oil hot but not smoking—maintain 350°F for even cooking.
Sesame seeds not sticking? Lightly dampen the dough before coating.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—this keeps the oil temperature steady.
Want more puff? Fry the balls slowly and gently press with a spoon as they cook.
Variations and Customizations:
Filled Version: Add sweet red bean paste or lotus seed paste to the center.
Black Sesame Seeds: For visual contrast and a nuttier flavor.
Coconut Milk: Replace regular milk for a richer, tropical flavor.
Pairing Suggestions:
These sesame balls pair beautifully with:
Hot green tea or jasmine tea
Iced milk tea or Thai tea
Light fruit salad for a balanced dessert plate
Storage Instructions:
At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
To Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Not freezer-friendly—texture changes when frozen.
Popular Questions:
Can I use only glutinous rice flour?
Yes, but adding all-purpose flour improves texture and makes handling easier.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Traditional sesame balls are deep-fried for optimal puffiness and crispness. Baking won’t yield the same results, but an air fryer can be a good compromise.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use any plant-based milk like almond or soy milk.
