If you’re craving a treat that captures the warmth and festivities of Filipino gatherings, you’ll fall head over heels for this Bibingka Recipe. Imagine a soft, fluffy rice cake infused with the creaminess of coconut milk, topped with the irresistible combo of savory salted egg, gooey cheese, and a finishing touch of grated coconut. This colorful, iconic dessert is a must-have during Christmas—but don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting it all year long. Making homemade bibingka is easier than you think, and the aroma as it bakes will transport you straight to a Filipino holiday morning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for this Bibingka Recipe can be found at a well-stocked grocery store, and each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating bibingka’s signature flavor and texture. From the gentle nutty notes of rice flour to the tropical creaminess of coconut milk, every part brings something special. Even the banana leaf liner isn’t just for tradition—it adds subtle fragrance and true charm.
- Rice flour: Gives that classic slightly chewy, delicate crumb you crave in bibingka.
- All-purpose flour: Balances and lightens up the texture so your cake doesn’t get too dense.
- Baking powder: The secret to a delightfully fluffy rise; don’t skip it!
- Salt: A pinch brings out the sweetness and depth of all the other flavors.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter—the perfect level to highlight the coconut and balance the salty toppings.
- Coconut milk: Delivers rich, creamy flavor and classic bibingka aroma.
- Water: Thins the batter just enough for a perfectly soft, moist crumb.
- Large eggs: Bind all ingredients while adding richness and color to your batter.
- Melted butter: For extra moistness and that unmistakable buttery finish—don’t skimp!
- Banana leaves (for lining): Not just classic décor—the aroma and look make bibingka truly special.
- Grated cheese: Melts on top for a gorgeous golden finish and savory contrast.
- Salted duck eggs (sliced): A signature Filipino touch—savor those little pops of salty umami.
- Grated coconut (for topping): A fresh, fragrant sprinkle to boost every bite before serving.
How to Make Bibingka Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a round cake pan and carefully line it with softened banana leaves. You’ll want the leaves to overlap and extend over the edges for that rustic look and subtle aroma. If you can’t find banana leaves, don’t worry—parchment paper works too, though you’ll miss the extra fragrance.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your rice flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Give it all a good stir, making sure the baking powder is evenly distributed, as this helps your Bibingka Recipe rise beautifully and ensures every bite is fluffy and flavorful.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, water, eggs, and melted butter. Blend until smooth and creamy—this is where the richness and the magical coconut flavor truly start to shine. The eggs and butter add a luscious note to the batter.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually pour your wet mixture into the dry ingredients, gently stirring as you go. Stir just until smooth—overmixing isn’t your friend here. You’re after a pourable, lump-free batter that’s ready to transform into a golden, pillowy cake.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Pour the silky batter into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top. Carefully arrange slices of salted duck egg across the surface and sprinkle an even layer of grated cheese for a beautiful, savory finish. These toppings will bake right into the golden crust, making every serving a surprise.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The top should turn a lovely golden brown and a toothpick poked in the center should come out clean. This is when your kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible!
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once your bibingka is done, let it cool just enough to handle—but serve it warm for the best experience. Give the top a light brush of butter and sprinkle with fresh grated coconut. Now, sit back and admire your homemade masterpiece.
How to Serve Bibingka Recipe
Garnishes
For the ultimate Bibingka Recipe experience, never skip the fresh garnishes! After brushing with melted butter, a generous sprinkle of grated coconut over the top adds an irresistible tropical aroma and a pleasant chew. You can also add extra cheese or even a little brown sugar if you love a caramelized finish.
Side Dishes
Bibingka shines alongside traditional Filipino breakfast favorites like salted fish (tuyo) or a warm mug of tsokolate (Filipino hot chocolate). For gatherings, pair it with tangy fruit salads or sweet mango slices. A simple cup of strong coffee makes it just right for any time of day.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your bibingka in individual banana leaf-lined ramekins for a party-ready look, or cut into mini wedges for a buffet. Drizzle a little condensed milk on top for added decadence or serve with a scoop of coconut ice cream for a modern twist. Bibingka’s rustic elegance makes it a canvas for all sorts of creative goodies!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), keep your bibingka moist and flavorful by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Any longer, and you’ll want to refrigerate it to keep the coconut fresh and the cake tender.
Freezing
To freeze bibingka, let it cool completely, then cut into slices and wrap each piece well. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. To avoid loss of moisture, it helps to add an extra layer of foil before sealing.
Reheating
For that fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or microwave briefly until just warmed through. Add a pat of butter and a sprinkle of coconut to revive the signature taste and texture before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this Bibingka Recipe without banana leaves?
Absolutely! While banana leaves are wonderfully aromatic and authentic, parchment paper will keep your cake from sticking and still deliver a delicious result. You can even add a drop or two of pandan extract to mimic some of that signature aroma, if desired.
What type Dessert
The most popular option is a mild, easy-melting cheese such as Filipino-style processed cheese or cheddar. The key is to use a cheese that melts beautifully and adds a savory accent without overpowering the sweet coconut flavors.
Can I make this Bibingka Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To keep this recipe gluten-free, simply omit the all-purpose flour and replace it with more rice flour or a certified gluten-free flour blend. This tweak will yield a slightly chewier, traditional texture—just how many Filipinos love it.
Is there a substitute for salted duck eggs?
If you can’t find salted duck eggs, try topping with slices of hard-boiled eggs for a similar look, though you’ll miss the salty flavor punch. Sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of regular eggs can offer a fun twist.
Why is my bibingka dense or heavy?
Overmixing the batter is the usual culprit when bibingka turns out too dense. Mix just until everything is incorporated, and double check that your baking powder is fresh—it’s what gives the cake that classic lightness and rise.
Final Thoughts
This Bibingka Recipe is genuinely close to my heart, and I hope it finds a special spot in your kitchen, too. With its irresistible aroma, rich flavors, and festive colors, it’s not just a holiday treat but a year-round celebration on a plate. Happy baking and enjoy every warm, wonderful bite!
Print
Bibingka Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Filipino
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious flavors of the Philippines with this Bibingka Recipe. This traditional Filipino rice cake is made with a blend of rice flour, coconut milk, and eggs, topped with a savory mix of grated cheese, salted duck eggs, and grated coconut. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Additional Ingredients:
- banana leaves (for lining)
- 1/2 cup grated cheese
- 1/2 cup salted duck eggs (sliced)
- 1/4 cup grated coconut (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a round cake pan with banana leaves.
- Mix dry ingredients: Combine rice flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
- Prepare wet mixture: Whisk together coconut milk, water, eggs, and melted butter in a separate bowl.
- Combine ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the pan, top with salted egg slices and grated cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.
- Finish and serve: Brush with butter, sprinkle with grated coconut, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use only rice flour for a more traditional texture.
- If banana leaves are unavailable, line the pan with parchment paper.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of sugar added to suit your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
