Siem Reap's dessert scene is a delightful mix of traditional Khmer sweets and modern Western-style dessert cafes. At the traditional end, you'll find nom kat (shaved ice topped with palm sugar syrup, coconut milk, and colourful jellies) sold from carts near the Old Market for as little as $0.50–1, alongside sticky rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves and fresh fruit skewers glazed with sugar. The more contemporary side has been growing fast: ice cream parlours, mango dessert bars, and Instagram-worthy dessert cafes have opened across the tourist district, serving everything from artisan gelato ($2–4 per scoop) to elaborate dessert plates with shaved snow, fresh tropical fruits, mochi, and house-made sauces ($5–8). Many cafes along Sivatha Boulevard now double as dessert destinations, offering thick Belgian waffles, crêpes, and elaborate sundaes. Coconut ice cream served in a fresh coconut shell is a Siem Reap classic — found at street stalls and upscale cafes alike for $1–3. The mango dessert culture is particularly strong: fresh Cambodian mangoes are available year-round and feature in sticky rice desserts, smoothie bowls, and ice cream. For something uniquely local, seek out the traditional sweet soup desserts (sago with coconut milk, taro, or corn) sold at night market stalls for under $1.
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Frequently asked questions
What are traditional Khmer desserts I should try in Siem Reap?
Nom kat (shaved ice with palm sugar syrup and coconut milk), sticky rice with mango or coconut, banana fritters, sweet soup with sago and taro, and fresh coconut ice cream in a coconut shell are all worth trying. Prices range from $0.50 to $2 at local stalls.
Where can I find good ice cream in Siem Reap?
Several ice cream parlours operate near the Old Market and along Sivatha Boulevard. Artisan gelato is available at a few spots for $2–4 per scoop. Coconut ice cream served in a fresh coconut shell is found both at street stalls ($1) and upscale cafes ($2–3).
Is there good mango dessert in Siem Reap?
Absolutely — Cambodia produces excellent mangoes year-round. Sticky rice with fresh mango is a classic (around $2–3 at restaurants). Many dessert cafes offer mango smoothie bowls, mango ice cream, and mango crepes. The sweetest mangoes are usually available during peak season (April–June).
What is nom kat?
Nom kat is a traditional Cambodian shaved ice dessert. A pile of finely shaved ice is topped with a rainbow of ingredients: palm sugar syrup, coconut milk, coloured jellies, sweet beans, and sometimes fruit. It's sold from carts and market stalls for $0.50–1 and is extremely refreshing in the heat.
Are there Western-style dessert cafes in Siem Reap?
Yes — the number has grown significantly. You'll find spots serving Belgian waffles, crêpes, sundaes, cheesecake, and elaborate shaved snow plates along Sivatha Boulevard and near the Old Market. Prices run $4–8 for a dessert plate.
Where can I find dessert stalls at Siem Reap night markets?
The Old Market Night Market and the Angkor Night Market both have dessert stalls selling traditional sweets, fried bananas, mango with sticky rice, coconut pancakes, and fruit skewers. Most items cost $0.50–2.
Is coconut ice cream popular in Siem Reap?
Very much so — it's one of Siem Reap's signature street treats. A scoop or two of coconut ice cream is served directly in a halved coconut shell, often topped with peanuts or jelly. Street stalls charge $1, while cafes charge $2–3 for more elaborate versions.
Can I find vegan desserts in Siem Reap?
Yes — many traditional Khmer sweets are naturally vegan (fruit-based, coconut milk-based). A growing number of dessert cafes label vegan options or can confirm ingredients. Look for dedicated vegan-friendly cafes near the Old Market area.
What desserts are unique to Siem Reap?
Look for bobor (rice porridge with sugar and coconut as a dessert version), lort cha (stir-fried rice noodle dessert), and the wide variety of sticky rice and coconut creations. The local sugar palm fruit (used in Cambodian sweets) has a distinctive caramel flavour you won't find elsewhere.
How much should I expect to pay for dessert in Siem Reap?
Traditional street sweets: $0.50–1. Coconut ice cream: $1–3. Dessert at a mid-range cafe (waffle, crepe, sundae): $3–6. Elaborate dessert plates at upscale cafes: $6–10.