Christmas in the Philippines is always extra special with sweet treats on the table. From rice cakes to creamy flans, desserts make every gathering feel more festive. If you’re planning to bake this holiday season, check out these 7 Holiday Baking Tips for Filipinos: Prep Your Kitchen for Christmas Treats first para sure na ready ang kitchen mo.
1. Bibingka
This soft rice cake cooked in banana leaves is a holiday classic. It’s usually topped with butter, sugar, and coconut, and you can bake it in your oven for that same comforting taste.
2. Puto Bumbong
The purple sticky rice steamed in bamboo tubes is a Simbang Gabi favorite. At home, you can make a version using modern tools and still enjoy it with margarine, coconut, and muscovado sugar.
3. Leche Flan
Smooth and creamy with caramel on top, leche flan is always a hit. Bake it using a water bath method to get that perfect texture.
4. Ube Halaya Pie
Turn the classic ube halaya into a pie with a buttery crust. Aside from its rich flavor, the purple color makes it look festive on the table.
5. Cassava Cake
Made with cassava, coconut milk, and condensed milk, this baked dessert is heavy, sweet, and best for big gatherings.
6. Buko Pie
A well-loved treat from Laguna, buko pie has creamy coconut filling inside a flaky crust. Freshly baked, it’s one of the most comforting Filipino desserts.
7. Brazo de Mercedes
A soft meringue roll with sweet custard filling. It looks fancy but is actually not too hard to bake.
8. Ensaymada
Buttery and fluffy bread topped with sugar and cheese. Fresh from the oven, it’s best paired with hot chocolate during chilly mornings.
9. Banana Bread
Sweet, moist, and full of banana flavor, this bread is easy to make and perfect for holiday mornings. You can add nuts or chocolate chips to make it even more festive.
10. Fruitcake (Filipino Style)
Made with dried fruits and nuts, fruitcake is often baked weeks before Christmas. Each family has their own version, making it a fun tradition to keep.
Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for some festive ideas, these desserts are easy to try at home. With a little prep and love, your kitchen can smell like Christmas, and your family and friends will definitely enjoy all the sweet goodness.