Soft, moist, and slightly sweet, bibingka is a traditional Filipino rice cake often enjoyed during Christmas, fiestas, or as a special snack. Baking it with banana leaves gives a subtle smoky aroma and enhances its flavor.
📝 Ingredients
For the Batter
-
3 cups rice flour
-
1 ½ tbsp baking powder
-
1 cup brown sugar
-
3 large eggs
-
3 cups coconut milk (preferably fresh for best flavor)
-
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
-
½ tsp salt
Optional Toppings
-
Sliced salted eggs
-
Grated cheese
-
Butter
-
Toasted grated coconut
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Dry Ingredients
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar.
-
Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients. Set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the Wet Ingredients
-
In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and add the vanilla extract and coconut milk.
-
Whisk together until smooth and fully combined.
3️⃣ Combine the Batter
-
Pour the dry flour mixture into the wet coconut milk mixture.
-
Gently fold with a whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
-
Do not overbeat; overmixing can result in a dense cake.
4️⃣ Prepare the Pan
-
Line a baking pan or mold with banana leaves for traditional flavor.
-
Optional: Pass the leaves briefly over low flame or heat to soften them.
-
-
Pour the batter evenly into the pan.
-
Smooth the top with a spatula.
5️⃣ Bake the Bibingka
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
Optional: For a slightly crusty, golden top, turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes.
6️⃣ Add Toppings & Serve
-
While still warm, top with butter, sliced salted eggs, grated cheese, or toasted coconut if desired.
-
Slice and serve warm.
⏱️ Time
-
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
-
Bake Time: 30 minutes
-
Total Time: ~45 minutes
🌟 Tips for Perfect Bibingka
-
Coconut Milk: Fresh coconut milk gives the richest flavor; canned can be used but is less fragrant.
-
Banana Leaves: Lightly heat or soften them before lining the pan for the classic aroma.
-
Texture: Gentle folding keeps the cake light and fluffy.
-
Doneness Test: Toothpick inserted in the center should come out dry.
✅ Optional Serving Ideas
-
Serve with hot chocolate or tsokolate, a classic Filipino pairing.
-
For a festive touch, decorate with extra grated coconut or small slices of salted egg on top.



