Filipino Desserts
From creamy leche flan to refreshing halo-halo, discover the sweet side of Filipino cuisine.
About Filipino Desserts
Filipino desserts, or "matamis," celebrate the country's love for sweet flavors and creative use of local ingredients like coconut, purple yam (ube), rice, and tropical fruits. From the Spanish-influenced Leche Flan to indigenous kakanin (rice cakes), Filipino desserts offer unique textures and flavors you won't find elsewhere. These treats are enjoyed after meals, during merienda, and especially at fiestas and celebrations.
Leche Flan
Creamy caramel custard, Filipino version of flan
Halo-Halo
The ultimate Filipino shaved ice dessert
Biko
Sweet sticky rice cake with coconut
Ube Halaya
Purple yam jam, rich and creamy
Bibingka
Coconut rice cake, Christmas favorite
Turon
Crispy banana spring rolls with jackfruit
Tips for Making Filipino Desserts
Fresh Coconut Milk
Use freshly extracted coconut milk for the richest flavor in kakanin and coconut-based desserts.
Sticky Rice Secrets
Soak glutinous rice overnight for the best texture in biko, suman, and other rice cakes.
Low Heat, Patience
Most Filipino desserts require slow cooking and constant stirring to prevent burning.