When you’re in the Philippines, there’s always a reason to indulge in something sweet. Filipino desserts are not only enjoyed after meals, but also during “merienda,” a beloved snack time between meals, which happens twice a day—mid-morning and mid-afternoon. These sweet treats feature a blend of diverse flavors, influenced by Filipino history and multi-cultural heritage, from Asian to European influences. Whether you’re craving something familiar or eager to try new flavors, here’s a list of Filipino desserts you can enjoy, along with easy-to-follow recipes to recreate them at home.
1. Biko – A Comforting Sticky Rice Treat
Biko is a popular Filipino dessert made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar. Its dense, creamy, and chewy texture is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. This dessert is commonly served during holidays and special occasions.
To make an authentic biko, soak glutinous rice in water for a few hours, then cook it with coconut milk and sugar. After baking, it’s topped with a layer of macapuno (sweet coconut strings) for extra richness. It’s a delightful way to recreate a Filipino childhood favorite in your own kitchen.
2. Halo-Halo – The Ultimate Filipino Summer Dessert
If you’re looking for a refreshing dessert that combines many textures and flavors, halo-halo is the one to try. This colorful dessert means “mix-mix” in Tagalog, and it’s a combination of shaved ice, sweetened fruits like jackfruit, beans, and jellies, topped with ube ice cream and leche flan. Each person can customize their halo-halo by adding more or less of their favorite toppings, making it a fun and interactive dessert perfect for warm weather.
3. Ube Bibingka – Purple Yam and Coconut Mochi
Ube, or purple yam, is a beloved ingredient in Filipino sweets, and this recipe for ube bibingka takes it to the next level. This chewy mochi-like cake is made with purple yam and coconut milk, offering a burst of color and flavor in every bite.
Topped with fresh mango or candied pineapple, ube bibingka is an easy-to-make dessert that will make any occasion feel extra special.
4. Leche Flan – A Filipino Favorite
A staple in Filipino celebrations, leche flan is a rich, creamy custard topped with a golden caramel sauce. Made with eggs, evaporated milk, and sugar, this dessert is incredibly smooth and silky.
It’s usually served chilled, making it a perfect dessert for summer or any time you’re craving something indulgent.
5. Maja Blanca – A Sweet Corn Coconut Pudding
Maja blanca is a sweet, soft, and creamy pudding made from corn, coconut milk, and cornstarch. It’s a classic Filipino treat that’s easy to make and pairs well with other Filipino desserts.
The topping, which is made from coconut milk and sugar, gives this pudding a delicate crunch and sweetness that’s irresistible.
6. Ube Ice Cream – A Delicious Twist on Traditional Ice Cream
Ube ice cream is a must-try dessert for anyone wanting to experience Filipino flavors. Made from the vibrant purple yam, ube ice cream has a nutty, earthy taste that pairs wonderfully with other Filipino treats like banana lumpia or biko. It’s a perfect dessert to make at home or enjoy from your local Filipino restaurant.
7. Banana Lumpia – A Crispy Delight
Banana lumpia, or turon, is a popular snack in the Philippines, often served during merienda. It’s made by wrapping ripe bananas coated in brown sugar in lumpia wrappers and frying them until crispy.
For an extra indulgent treat, serve banana lumpia with a scoop of ube ice cream on top.
8. Barquillos – Crispy Wafer Rolls
Barquillos are thin, crunchy wafer rolls that are light and delicate. These treats are perfect for anyone looking for a snack that’s not too heavy but still satisfying.
They’re often served as a sweet accompaniment to tea or coffee, or simply enjoyed on their own.
9. Purple Yam Jam (Halayang Ube) – Spread the Joy
Halayang ube, or purple yam jam, is a sweet and thick spread made from boiled ube, sugar, and coconut milk. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, as a filling for pastries, or even eating on its own.
Making it at home is a rewarding experience, and it’s a great way to savor the flavors of Filipino desserts all year round.
10. Karioka – Sweet Rice Balls
Karioka is a Filipino dessert that consists of sweet rice dough balls fried until golden brown and then coated in a sticky coconut glaze.
These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing and make a wonderful addition to any dessert table. The chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor make them a true Filipino classic.
How to Make Filipino Desserts at Home
Making Filipino desserts at home is easier than you think. Many of these treats use ingredients that are readily available, such as coconut milk, glutinous rice, and purple yam.
You can find various recipes online or in Filipino cookbooks that will guide you step-by-step in recreating these sweets.
For example, if you’re interested in trying biko, follow these simple steps:
- Soak 2 cups of glutinous rice in water for 2 hours.
- Cook the rice with 1 can of coconut milk and 1 cup of water until soft and mushy.
- Spread the cooked rice into a baking dish and top it with a layer of macapuno and brown coconut jam.
- Bake until golden brown and enjoy!
Filipino Desserts for Every Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday, a family gathering, or just a casual merienda break, Filipino desserts have a way of bringing people together.
They combine rich, creamy textures with sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors, creating an unforgettable taste experience. From the easy-to-make biko to the elaborate halo-halo, there’s a Filipino dessert for every occasion.
Why Filipino Desserts Are So Special
Filipino desserts stand out due to their unique combination of ingredients and techniques influenced by the country’s diverse cultural history. With influences from Spain, Malaysia, and neighboring Southeast Asian nations,
Filipino desserts have evolved to include a variety of flavors, such as coconut, ube, pandan, and sweet corn, which are commonly found in many desserts across the region.
Whether you’re looking to reminisce about the flavors of your childhood or try something new, Filipino desserts offer a delightful experience that you can enjoy as a dessert after dinner or as a mid-afternoon merienda snack. The best part? You can easily recreate these treats at home to share with your family and friends.
Filipino desserts are rich, flavorful, and diverse, offering a sweet reflection of the Philippines’ cultural heritage. From simple favorites like leche flan to colorful halo-halo, these treats are sure to make any moment sweeter. Whether you’re making them from scratch at home or enjoying them from a Filipino restaurant, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the joy of Filipino sweets. So go ahead, indulge, and discover the wonderful world of Filipino desserts.