Indulge in the sweet delights of the Philippines with our list of 15 delicious Philippine desserts to try. From Ube Halaya to Halo-Halo, discover the diverse and unique flavors of these traditional treats.
In this blog post, we’ll be showcasing 15 delicious Philippine desserts that you absolutely must try on your next trip to the Philippines or even in your own kitchen. From the creamy and sweet Ube Halaya to the refreshing and cool Halo-Halo, these desserts are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and give you a taste of the Philippines.
Philippine Desserts and Their Significance in Filipino Culture
Philippine desserts are a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural heritage and history. During the Spanish colonial period, many deserts such as bibingka and maja blanca were introduced, often being passed down from generation to generation.
Even now, these sweet treats made with rice flour, coconut milk, sugar and other local ingredients help bring people together. Often seen at family gatherings and holidays, they represent more than just a meal – they represent Filipino culture and carry generations of family history with them.
Many modern dessert recipes still borrow flavors from centuries-old recipes in honor of their past. Whether enjoyed for special occasions or everyday enjoyment, Philippine desserts are a source of comfort that celebrates traditional customs and promote cultural identity in Filipinos all over the world.
Ube Halaya
Ube Halaya is a Filipino dessert dish made from boiled, mashed and sweetened purple yam. It is often served during the holiday season and is typically garnished with butter, vanilla extract or coconut cream. The ingredients used to make Ube Halaya are:
- Ube (purple yam)
- Coconut Milk or Cream
- Sugar
- Butter
- Vanilla Extract
Variations and popular uses
Ube Halaya is such a versatile dish that it can be used in a variety of ways. Some popular uses include:
- Baking: Add Ube Halaya to cakes, cookies, cupcakes or other baked goods for added flavor and color.
- Fillings: Use Ube Halaya as a filling for other Filipino dishes such as bibingka and maja blanca.
- Milk Shakes: Blend Ube Halaya with vanilla ice cream, condensed milk and evaporated milk to make a creamy milkshake.
- Frosting: Make a simple frosting with Ube Halaya, cream cheese and butter. This can be used on pastries or pies.
Where to find the best Ube Halaya in the Philippines
If you’re looking for the best Ube Halaya in the Philippines, here are some places to check out:
Biko
Biko is a popular Filipino dessert that is rich, sweet, and sticky. It is made with glutinous rice, sugar, and coconut milk. The ingredients are cooked together in a thick concoction until it forms a thick block or cake. The Biko is usually topped with shredded coconut or latik before being served.
Variations and popular uses
Biko can be enjoyed on its own as a dessert or snack, or it can be used as an ingredient in other recipes. Some popular variations include using different kinds of sweeteners such as coconut sugar, condensed milk, honey, and even malted chocolate. The biko batter can also be used to make pancakes, waffles, and even rice mochi. It’s also popular served with ice cream or fruit sauce.
Where to find the best Biko in the Philippines
There are many places in the Philippines where you can find delicious biko. Here are some of the top spots to try:
Dolor’s Kakanin
Address: 25 K-6th, Quezon City, 1115 Metro Manila
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9AM – 5PM
Phone: (02) 8330 0130
Leche Flan
Leche flan is a traditional Filipino dessert made with eggs, sugar and evaporated milk. The ingredients are combined to form a custard-like texture that is both sweet and creamy. It is usually served as a slice, topped with caramel sauce or syrup.
The basic ingredients for making leche flan include eggs, condensed milk, white sugar, vanilla extract and lemon zest. The mixture is poured into a round pan and baked in an oven until it sets. After cooling, the flan is inverted onto a plate and served as slices. Additional ingredients such as cream cheese, rum or cocoa can also be added to give it more flavor.
Variations and popular uses
Leche flan has a variety of uses and variations. It can be added to cakes, pies, and even ice cream. For a more traditional version, the custard can be poured into an oven-safe baking dish and then baked. Other variations include adding chocolate chips or nuts to the mixture for texture.
The custard is also popularly served as a topping for other desserts such as halo-halo or crepes. Some restaurants offer specials such as leche flan pancakes that are sweetened with caramelized sugar before being topped with the custard. It can also be eaten on its own as a snack or dessert, either plain or topped with additional ingredients like fruits or syrups.
Where to find the best Leche Flan in the Philippines
The best places to find leche flan in the Philippines vary from region to region, but there are some standouts that make for great destinations for fans of this iconic Filipino dessert.
Anniella’s Leche Flan
Address: 1730, 1008 España Blvd, Sampaloc, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9AM – 8PM
For orders and other information, click here.
Sapin-Sapin
Sapin Sapin is a popular layered Filipino dessert that is enjoyed by many during special occasions. The dish gets its name from the word sapin-sapin, which means ‘layers’ in Tagalog. The traditional version of sapin-sapin consists of three to four layers, each made from a different mixture.
The mixture for each layer may consist of ingredients such as coconut milk, jackfruit, glutinous rice flour, sugar and food coloring. The main ingredient for all the layers is usually a kind of sweetened coconut paste called latik. Toppings like shredded coconut or nuts are sometimes added to the top layer before serving.
Variations and popular uses
Another variation is ‘Kutsinta’, which adds tapioca flour or cassava flour to the classic recipe. Kutsinta has a slightly chewy texture, and it comes topped with freshly grated coconut as a garnish.
Aside from these variations, sapin-sapin is also used in many other dishes such as cake rolls, ice cream cakes and tarts. It’s also commonly sold in markets during special occasions like Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Where to find the best Sapin-Sapin in the Philippines
If you’re looking for some of the best sapin-sapin in the Philippines, look no further! The local delicacy can be found in many places around the country, from small neighborhood stores to large upscale restaurants.
Original Dolor’s
Address: 19 Gov. Pascual Ave, Malabon, Metro Manila
For orders, click here.
Halo-Halo
Halo-halo is a classic Filipino dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! The dish consists of flavorful ingredients such as sweet beans, coconut strips, boiled sweet potatoes, fruit preserves and evaporated milk. The combination of flavors creates a unique and delicious taste that’s hard to resist.
The word “halo-halo” translates to “mixed together” in English, and this is true for the dish; it’s made by combining many different ingredients into one bowl. For an authentic halo-halo experience, top off your bowl with crushed ice, leche flan and purple yam ice cream.
Variations and popular uses
Halo-halo has many variations that can be found all around the Philippines. These range from substituting different ingredients like fruits, cookies or corn flakes to adding unique toppings like mango ice cream or condensed milk.
Aside from its delicious flavor, halo-halo also has many popular uses. Various food establishments use it as a topping for cakes, pancakes or ice cream, while others create unique dessert drinks by blending all the ingredients together.
Where to find the best Halo-Halo in the Philippines
If you’re looking for the best halo-halo in the Philippines, you won’t have to look far! There are numerous places all over the country that specialize in serving up delicious halo-halo.
Ben’s Halo-Halo Ice Cream-N.S Amoranto Branch
Address: 411, 1114 N.S. Amoranto Sr. St, Santa Mesa Heights, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Phone: 0945 577 7877
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7AM – 7PM
For Orders, click here.
Maja Blanca
Maja blanca is a delicious Filipino dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The dish consists of sweetened coconut milk, cornstarch and other ingredients like sugar, vanilla extract, and condensed milk. Then, it is topped off with shredded coconut and butter to create a creamy, delicate dish.
Maja blanca has a unique texture and flavor combination. The coconut milk gives it a rich and creamy taste, while the cornstarch creates a thick, pudding-like consistency. The sweetness of the condensed milk is balanced out by the nuttiness of the shredded coconut, making for an unforgettable dessert experience.
Variations and popular uses
Maja blanca is a popular Filipino dessert that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It is served as either a sweet or savory dish, depending on the ingredients used. The most traditional version of the dish includes coconut milk, cornstarch, sugar, vanilla extract, and condensed milk. However, variations with other ingredients such as jackfruit and pandan are also popular.
In addition to being served as a dessert, maja blanca can also be enjoyed as a morning snack or side dish. It is often added to puto (steamed rice cakes) to give them a creamy texture and flavor.
Where to find the best Maja Blanca in the Philippines
If you’re looking for the best maja blanca in the Philippines, look no further! The country is home to many delicious variations of this traditional dessert. From traditional recipes using coconut milk and cornstarch to more innovative creations that are flavored with pandan and jackfruit, there is something for everyone.
Majalicious Kitchenette
Address: B191 L14, Paraiso, Makati, 1218 Metro Manila
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9AM – 6PM
Phone: 0927 549 0238
For orders, click here.
Turon
Turon is a popular Filipino dessert that is beloved by many. It is made with thinly sliced pieces of banana which are wrapped in a thin wrapper and then deep-fried until golden brown. As the turon cooks, it develops a crunchy crust on the outside and a sweet, soft interior.
The wrappers used to make turon are typically made from either lumpia (spring roll) wrappers or crepe-like batter. The filling usually consists of sugar, sesame seeds, and jackfruit slices. Sometimes raisins or cashew nuts are also added for extra flavor.
Variations and popular uses
Variations of turon include “saging na saba” where the banana slices are coated with brown sugar or honey before wrapping them in crepe-like batter; “turrones de mani,” which is made with peanuts instead of banana; and “milagrosa,” which is usually served during the Christmas season.
Where to find the best Turon in the Philippines
If you’re ever in the Philippines, be sure to try some delicious turon! Here are some of the best places to find it:
House of Turon
Address: 369, 369 P, 369 P Zamora, Rizal, 4003 Laguna
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 1PM – 6PM
Phone: 0956 796 6717
For orders, click here.
Buko Pie
Buko Pie is a popular Filipino dessert made with young coconut (buko), condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and all-purpose flour. The dough is spread into a pie crust and then filled with the buko mixture. The pie is then baked until golden brown and the filling has become set. The result is a delectable sweet treat with a creamy custard-like texture that has a hint of coconut. It is often served warm with ice cream or as an after-dinner snack.
Variations and popular uses
Buko Pie is a beloved Filipino dessert that comes in many forms – from traditional recipes to more modern variations. Here are some of the most popular variations and uses of Buko Pie:
- Traditional Buko Pie – The classic version of Buko Pie has a thick, custard-like filling made with young coconut (buko), condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and all-purpose flour. It’s usually served warm with ice cream.
- Ube Buko Pie – Ube Buko Pie adds purple yam (ube) to the mix to make a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Coconut Custard Cake – This variation swaps out the pie crust for a soft sponge cake as the base. The result is a light and airy cake filled with creamy coconut custard.
- Coconut Crumble Pie – This variation combines the classic filling with a crunchy crumble topping made from flour, butter and sugar.
- Frozen Treats – For those hot summer days, try freezing your Buko Pie! Slice it up into small pieces and let it chill in the freezer until solid.
Where to find the best Buko Pie in the Philippines
Buko Pie is a beloved Filipino dessert and can be found all over the Philippines. Here are some of the best places to find the most delicious Buko Pies:
Orient: The Original Buko Pie Bakeshop | Tagaytay
Address: LMMO Bldg Caltex, Santa Rosa – Tagaytay Rd, Lumil, Silang, 4118 Cavite
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 8AM – 6PM
Phone: (049) 576 5577
Cassava Cake
Cassava cake is a sweet, rich dessert popular in the Philippines. It’s made with grated cassava (also known as yuca), sugar, butter, vanilla extract, condensed milk, and eggs. The ingredients are combined to create a thick batter which is then baked in the oven until golden brown. The finished product has a sweet, creamy texture and tastes like a cross between a custard and a cake. It’s often served with ice cream or fresh fruits.
Variations and popular uses
Cassava cake is a versatile dessert, with many different variations and popular uses. One such variation is turon, which adds sliced bananas, toasted sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cassava cake batter before baking. Another variation is cassava bibingka, which adds grated cheese and coconut milk to the mix and then tops it off with salted egg yolks before baking. Sweetened condensed milk is sometimes used in place of sugar for an even richer flavor.
Where to find the best Cassava Cake in the Philippines
The best place to find cassava cake in the Philippines is at local bakeries or restaurants. The traditional version is usually available at many Filipino grocery stores and online shops, but it’s worth searching for specialty bakeries that make their own unique versions. If you’re visiting a specific city or region, look up local spots that serve homemade variations of this dessert.
Don Benito’s Cassava Cake & Pichi-Pichi
Address: 302 Tandang Sora Ave, Quezon City, 1107 Metro Manila
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8AM – 9PM
For orders, click here.
Minatamis na Saging (Sweetened Saba Bananas)
Minatamis na saging is a sweet Filipino dessert made with saba bananas (also known as Cardaba or Brown Sugar bananas). The fruit is peeled and boiled in water before it is mashed together with brown sugar, butter, and condensed milk to create a thick, creamy paste.
Once cooled down, the banana mixture can be spread onto a lightly greased baking tray and baked until golden brown. The finished product has a crunchy outer layer, with a chewy interior that is delicately sweet. It’s often served warm, topped with coconut shavings for extra texture and flavor.
Variations and popular uses
Minatamis na saging is a versatile dish, with plenty of variations and popular uses. While the dessert can be eaten as-is or served with other sweets, it’s also commonly used to make different types of cake. Some popular versions include banana cake, brownies, and even ice cream.
Where to find the best Minatamis na Saging in the Philippines
The best Minatamis na Saging can be found in local Filipino restaurants throughout the country. In major cities, there are plenty of eateries that specialize in Filipino cuisine, serving up this classic dish with a twist.
Cosmic Poblacion, Makati – A Vegan Restaurant & Cafe
Address: G/F, 4980 P. Guanzon, Poblacion, Makati, 1210 Metro Manila
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 11AM – 8PM
Phone: 0915 365 8758
For orders, click here.
Carioca
Carioca is a Filipino dessert made from glutinous rice, usually cooked in sugar or syrup. The rice is traditionally stirred with coconut milk and then mixed with sago or tapioca pearls. Other ingredients such as jackfruit, sweet potatoes, ube (purple yam), and cashew nuts are sometimes added for additional flavor.
Variations and popular uses
Carioca has been adapted in multiple ways, both as a dessert or as an accompaniment to main meals. It is often served with leche flan, which adds a rich creaminess to the dish. The addition of ice cream or condensed milk also enhances the sweet flavor of the pudding. Other variations include adding black sticky rice, mung beans, and peanuts.
Where to find the best Carioca in the Philippines
The Philippines is known for its delicious array of desserts, and Carioca is no exception! You can find some of the best Carioca in Manila and other major cities. For a truly authentic experience, visit local markets and look out for street food vendors offering this delicious dessert.
Romulo Lounge
Address: 25th Floor Ayala Tower One, Ayala Avenue, corner Paseo De Roxas, Ayala Triangle, Makati, 1226 Metro Manila
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 11AM – 9PM
Phone: (02) 7970 0429
For orders, click here.
Fruit Salad
Fruit salad is a classic dish made of fresh fruit, usually diced or cubed, combined with a dressing such as honey, sugar, or syrup. The dish can be further customized by adding other ingredients such as nuts, seeds, coconut flakes, yogurt, and granola for some crunchy texture.
The types of fruit used can vary depending on availability and personal preference; common fruits used in fruit salads include apples, grapes, melons, strawberries, oranges, kiwi fruit and bananas.
Variations and popular uses
Fruit salad can be served as a dessert or side dish to many meals. It can also be used as a topping for breakfast cereals, yoghurt, ice cream, or pancakes and waffles. For a more interesting flavour, try adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dressing.
For an extra special treat, serve fruit salad with a scoop of custard or mascarpone cream.
Where to find the best Fruit Salad in the Philippines
Want a refreshing and tasty fruit salad? The best place to find one is in the Philippines! Whether you’re looking for a breakfast treat or something special for dessert, you can find fruit salads with all kinds of delicious ingredients.
Café Laguna – SM Seaside
Address: SM Seaside City, Cebu South Coastal Rd, Cebu City, 6000
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10AM – 9PM
Phone: (032) 410 7426
For orders, click here.
Mais Con Yelo
Mais Con Yelo, also known as Maize with Ice in English, is a popular Filipino dessert. It is made with corn kernels mixed with sweetened condensed milk and topped with crushed ice and pinipig cereal. Other variations may include adding raisins or other dried fruit for added sweetness. For an extra kick of flavor, you can garnish the top with grated cheese or sago pearls.
Variations and popular uses
Mais Con Yelo is a versatile dessert, with many variations on the traditional recipe. Some variations include adding different kinds of sweetened condensed milk or cream to give it a richer flavor. Other ingredients such as raisins, sago pearls, coconut flakes and grated cheese may also be added for extra texture and sweetness. It can even be served with a scoop of ice cream on top!
Mais Con Yelo has become popular at parties and other gatherings due to its sweet taste and easy-to-make preparation. It also makes a great mid-afternoon snack when you want something light but still satisfying.
Where to find the best Mais Con Yelo in the Philippines
Mais Con Yelo is one of the most beloved desserts in the Philippines. It’s a sweet, refreshing concoction of corn kernels, sweetened condensed milk, crushed ice and pinipig cereal that is sure to be a crowd pleaser. If you’re looking for a traditional Filipino treat you won’t find anywhere else, there are several places around the country where you can find an excellent version of Mais Con Yelo.
Ben’s Halo-Halo Ice Cream-N.S Amoranto Branch
Address: 411, 1114 N.S. Amoranto Sr. St, Santa Mesa Heights, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7AM – 7PM
Phone: 0945 577 7877
For orders, click here.
Ginataang Bilo-Bilo
Ginataang Bilo-Bilo is a Filipino dessert made of glutinous rice flour (galapong), sweet potatoes, taro root, banana and jackfruit cooked in a flavorful coconut milk and creamy syrup. This dish is usually cooked with small tapioca pearls known as bilo-bilo in the Philippines. It is usually served hot or cold depending on one’s preference.
The main ingredients for this traditional Filipino dessert are galapong, which is created by grinding glutinous rice into a paste, sweet potatoes and taro root which are both peeled and cut into cubes before cooking. Bananas, jackfruit and tapioca pearls (bilo-bilo) are then added to the mix along with pandan or saba leaves for flavor. Lastly, thick coconut milk and gula melaka syrup are added at the end to give it its sweet richness.
Variations and popular uses
It can easily be transformed into an even sweeter treat by adding additional ingredients such as coconut shreds, sago pearls or mangoes, depending on one’s preference. Alternatively, it can be served with extra milk and cheese to make a savory version.
This delicious dessert is popularly used in celebrations such as weddings and birthdays but can also be enjoyed as an evening snack or even breakfast. Its unique flavor makes it perfect for pairing with other Filipino dishes like sinigang or adobo.
Where to find the best Ginataang Bilo-Bilo in the Philippines
If you’re looking for the best Ginataang Bilo-Bilo in the Philippines, you won’t have to look far. This popular Filipino dessert is commonly served in restaurants and street food stalls across the country.
Ginataang Bilo-Bilo & Mais
Address: 3J6V+Q5C, San Fernando, Pampanga
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9AM – 10PM
Phone: (045) 402 5783
For orders, click here.
Buko Pandan
Buko Pandan is a Filipino dessert that combines some of the country’s sweetest ingredients, including coconut and pandan leaves. This creamy concoction has a distinct tropical flavor, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The dish consists of several key ingredients, such as: freshly grated buko (coconut) meat, condensed milk for sweetness, pandan leaves for aroma and flavor, cream or all-purpose cream for texture, sago pearls or nata de coco for texture, and gelatine powder to ensure proper consistency. To give it an extra special touch, the dish may also be sprinkled with shredded cheese or served over ice cream.
Variations and popular uses
Buko Pandan is a very versatile Filipino dessert, which can be enjoyed in various different ways. In some regions of the Philippines, the dish is commonly served during special occasions such as birthdays, wedding showers, baptismal ceremonies, fiestas and more.
There are also many variations of this classic dessert that Filipinos have come up with over the years. For example, some people add meringue for an additional sweet flavor or create unique topping combinations with nuts, granola, shaved ice and other ingredients. Others may opt to use canned coconut instead of freshly grated buko or replace cream with evaporated milk for a lighter version.
Where to find the best Buko Pandan in the Philippines
If you’re looking for a delicious and authentic Filipino dessert, Buko Pandan is definitely the way to go! This creamy concoction has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike because of its distinct tropical flavor.
Nathaniel’s Bakeshop
Address: KM69 Jose Abad Santos Avenue, Barangay Dolores, San Fernando, 2000
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8AM – 7PM
Phone: (045) 961 7171
For orders, click here.
In Conclusion
The Philippines is home to a wide variety of delicious desserts that are worth trying. From the popular halo-halo and leche flan, to lesser-known treats such as sapin-sapin and biko, there is something for every sweet tooth. These desserts are not only delicious, but also reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
They are made from local ingredients and have been passed down through generations. Whether you are a local or a tourist, be sure to indulge in these delicious Philippine desserts to fully experience the unique flavors and traditions of the country.