30 Must-Try Filipino Desserts to Sweeten Your Day

Filipino desserts are a feast for the senses, offering a unique blend of textures, flavors, and cultural heritage. These 30 recipes invite you to explore sweet delights like ube halaya, sticky rice cakes, and refreshing halo-halo.

Each dessert combines tropical ingredients like coconut, pandan, and jackfruit to create something truly special. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a new treat to try, these recipes are full of possibilities.

Filipino desserts balance sweetness with a richness that makes them perfect for any occasion. Take your taste buds on a journey through this vibrant cuisine with desserts that are as easy to make as they are enjoyable to eat.

Indulge in these sweet creations and experience the charm of Filipino flavors.

Bicho-Bicho

Bicho-Bicho is a Filipino favorite that puts a unique twist on the classic donut. Made from a soft, yeasted dough braided into intricate twists, it’s deep-fried until golden brown and coated with sugar or caramel syrup.

The fluffy texture and slightly crisp coating create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. This treat is perfect for everything from a casual snack to an indulgent dessert.

Bite into one, and you’ll find yourself hooked on its charm and simplicity.

Mango Float

Mango Float is a no-bake Filipino dessert that’s as effortless as it is delicious. Layers of graham crackers, rich cream, condensed milk, and fresh mangoes come together in this tropical icebox cake.

The creamy sweetness paired with tangy mango creates a flavor experience that feels both luxurious and refreshing. It’s a guaranteed hit for any gathering, whether big or small.

Once you’ve tasted it, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated without it.

Leche Flan (Filipino Creme Caramel)

Leche Flan, a Filipino version of creme caramel, brings a rich and silky finish to any meal. The smooth custard and golden caramel glaze melt in your mouth, creating a dessert that’s nothing short of magical.

This classic recipe uses simple ingredients to achieve a result that feels indulgent and decadent. Whether for a family celebration or a quiet evening treat, it always impresses.

Just one bite, and you’ll see why it’s a Filipino favorite across generations.

Filipino Carioca

Filipino Carioca is a delightful treat made from sticky rice balls fried to golden perfection. Their chewy texture and lightly sweetened flavor make them a fun snack that’s hard to resist.

Drizzled with a luscious coconut caramel sauce, they’re elevated into a dessert fit for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, they always deliver a comforting sweetness.

Once you start munching, you’ll find it nearly impossible to stop.

Buchi

Buchi, a Filipino take on sesame balls, offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The crispy, glutinous rice exterior pairs beautifully with the sweet red bean filling inside.

Coated in sesame seeds and fried to perfection, they’re a snack that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Served with tea or coffee, they’re perfect for elevating your afternoon break.

These treats bring a playful yet elegant touch to any table.

Bibingka (Filipino Coconut Cake)

Bibingka is a traditional Filipino coconut cake that’s soft, moist, and packed with flavor. Topped with salted duck eggs, grated coconut, and cheese, it offers a blend of sweet and savory that’s uniquely satisfying.

Commonly enjoyed during festive celebrations, it brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. The rich, aromatic flavors transport you to cozy holiday mornings with every bite.

Once you’ve tried it, you’ll keep it on your must-have list for special occasions.

Biko (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake)

Biko, a traditional Filipino sticky rice cake, is the epitome of rich, caramelized indulgence. Made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar, it’s often topped with latik for extra depth and flavor.

Its chewy texture and sweet, nutty taste make it perfect for holidays, parties, or even as a midweek treat. Each slice carries the comforting flavors of home-cooked tradition.

Share it with friends, and you’ll be spreading pure joy.

Ginataang Mais

Ginataang Mais is a delightful Filipino take on corn pudding that combines simplicity with indulgence. Made with sweet corn, glutinous rice, and coconut milk, this dessert has a creamy, velvety texture.

The natural sweetness of the corn shines through, complemented by the richness of the coconut milk. Whether enjoyed warm to soothe the soul or chilled for a refreshing treat, it never fails to satisfy.

A sprinkle of cinnamon or a touch of toasted coconut can transform it into an unforgettable dessert.

Filipino Polvoron

Polvoron is a crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth Filipino shortbread that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious. Made from toasted flour, powdered milk, sugar, and butter, these bite-sized treats are perfect for gifting or sharing.

Add-ins like nuts or rice crisps elevate the flavors and textures, making each batch unique. They’re a favorite for holidays and celebrations, but equally delightful as an everyday snack.

Crafting them at home is as rewarding as savoring every rich, buttery bite.

Sapin-Sapin

Sapin-Sapin stands out with its stunning layers of sticky rice, each infused with a different flavor and color. This iconic Filipino dessert combines purple yam, coconut, and other rich ingredients to create a unique, chewy cake.

Its eye-catching presentation is always a showstopper at celebrations and family gatherings. Despite its intricate look, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare and share.

Every layer offers a burst of flavor, making each bite feel like a sweet discovery.

Puto (Filipino Steamed Sweet Cake)

Puto, a steamed sweet cake, delights with its soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness. These bite-sized treats are a staple at Filipino celebrations, often topped with cheese or salted egg for a savory twist.

Their versatility makes them a great companion for savory dishes or a delightful snack on their own. Steaming ensures they stay moist and tender, perfect for enjoying any time of day.

Sharing puto brings joy to gatherings, creating lasting memories around the table.

Mamon (Filipino Sponge Cake)

Mamon brings a light and airy joy to every bite. This Filipino sponge cake is known for its incredible softness and buttery flavor.

Often topped with grated cheese or a dusting of sugar, it pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. Baking mamon fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that feels like pure comfort.

Its delicate texture and rich taste make it a timeless treat for all occasions.

Ube Halaya

Ube Halaya adds a vibrant purple hue to your dessert table with its smooth and creamy texture. Made from purple yam, coconut milk, and sugar, this sweet jam is both visually stunning and deeply flavorful.

It can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for baked goods and ice cream. Adding grated cheese or latik enhances its richness, making it even more indulgent.

Perfect for festive occasions, it’s a dessert that celebrates tradition and creativity in every bite.

Buko Salad

Buko Salad combines the best of fresh fruit and creamy indulgence. Featuring young coconut strips, nata de coco, and kaong, it’s bound together by a luscious cream and condensed milk dressing.

The unique blend of textures and refreshing sweetness makes it a staple at Filipino celebrations. It’s quick to assemble and always leaves guests asking for seconds.

Every bite feels like a tropical getaway, full of vibrant flavors and delightful surprises.

Lengua de Gato

Lengua de Gato offers a delightful crunch with every bite. These buttery, crisp cookies are shaped into thin, delicate strips that practically melt in your mouth.

They’re perfect for pairing with tea or coffee, adding a touch of elegance to your snack time. Their light sweetness and irresistible texture make them a hit with kids and adults alike.

Bake a batch for holiday trays or simply enjoy them as a comforting, everyday treat.

Filipino Egg Pie

Filipino Egg Pie captivates with its golden, custard-filled center and flaky, buttery crust. The creamy custard has just the right level of sweetness, balancing perfectly with the crisp shell.

Baking this pie fills your kitchen with an aroma that feels like a warm hug. Its timeless appeal makes it an ideal dessert for family meals or special occasions.

A slice of egg pie is more than a treat - it’s a heartfelt taste of Filipino tradition.

Ube Bread Rolls

Ube Bread Rolls bring a playful twist to classic baked goods with their vibrant color and creamy filling. Filled with rich ube halaya and topped with a sweet ube cream cheese frosting, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.

Their pillowy texture and indulgent taste make them a perfect choice for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime treat. Serve them warm for an extra comforting experience.

These rolls are sure to turn heads and win hearts wherever they’re served.

Cassava Cake

Cassava Cake embodies the essence of Filipino comfort desserts with its rich and custard-like texture. This sweet treat is made from grated cassava, coconut milk, and condensed milk, creating a perfectly moist and creamy dessert.

Whether baked or steamed, it’s a favorite centerpiece for gatherings and celebrations. The caramelized top adds an elegant, golden finish that’s as inviting as the flavors themselves.

Its melt-in-your-mouth goodness will have you reaching for a second slice without hesitation.

Buko Pandan

Buko Pandan combines the freshness of young coconut with the aromatic sweetness of pandan jelly. Its creamy base of condensed milk and cream ties the flavors together into a harmonious, refreshing dessert.

The vibrant green and white layers make it a standout centerpiece for summer parties or festive occasions. Quick to prepare and always a hit, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser.

One spoonful, and you’re transported to a tropical paradise.

Halo Halo (Filipino Shaved Ice Sundae)

Halo Halo brings joy with its colorful medley of ingredients and refreshing flavors. This shaved ice dessert is layered with sweetened beans, fruits, jellies, and topped with ice cream, leche flan, and purple yam.

Each spoonful offers a delightful combination of creamy, chewy, and crunchy textures. Ideal for hot summer days, it’s a vibrant and indulgent way to cool off.

Customize it with your favorite toppings, and it transforms into a personal celebration in a glass.

Banana Cue (Filipino Fried Caramelized Bananas)

Banana Cue is one of the Philippines’ most beloved street foods, made by caramelizing saba bananas in brown sugar and frying them to golden perfection. Skewered for easy handling, these treats are sweet, sticky, and utterly addictive.

They’re perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a quick dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth. The caramel glaze adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender bananas.

One bite, and you’ll understand why they’re a national favorite.

Minatamis na Saging

Minatamis na Saging turns simple plantains into a sweet masterpiece. The bananas are simmered in a rich brown sugar syrup that enhances their natural sweetness.

Serve it warm with a dollop of ice cream for a dessert that feels luxurious yet comforting. Its caramel-like coating makes every bite a delightful experience.

Whether enjoyed alone or paired with other treats, it’s a dessert that truly shines in its simplicity.

Ube Pound Cake

Ube Pound Cake combines the rich, earthy flavor of purple yam with the soft, moist texture of a classic pound cake. This dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious, with its bold purple color catching everyone’s attention.

Perfect for tea time or as an after-dinner treat, it’s versatile and satisfying. A drizzle of glaze or dusting of powdered sugar adds a finishing touch that feels luxurious.

This cake is a wonderful way to add a taste of Filipino flair to any occasion.

Suman Malagkit with Coconut Caramel Sauce

Suman Malagkit with Coconut Caramel Sauce is a sticky rice treat that’s as simple as it is indulgent. Steamed in banana leaves, the glutinous rice is infused with the rich flavor of coconut milk and sugar.

Drizzled with caramel sauce or paired with fresh mango, it becomes a dessert that’s impossible to resist. Pair it with coffee or tea, and it turns into the perfect snack for any time of day.

It’s a classic you’ll find yourself making over and over again.

Taho (Filipino Sweet Tofu)

Taho is a beloved Filipino snack made with silken tofu, caramelized sugar syrup, and chewy tapioca pearls. Warm and comforting, it’s a staple for breakfast or afternoon treats.

The combination of creamy, sweet, and chewy textures makes it a uniquely satisfying experience. Whether you’re enjoying it at home or on a busy street corner, it’s a taste of tradition that never fails to delight.

Taho is more than a snack - it’s a hug in a cup.

Ginataang Bilo-Bilo

Ginataang Bilo-Bilo brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. This Filipino dessert features glutinous rice balls, plantains, sweet potatoes, and tapioca pearls, all simmered in rich, creamy coconut milk.

The natural sweetness of the fruits blends beautifully with the milky base, making it a satisfying treat. Whether served hot on a chilly day or cold during the summer, this dish delivers a delightful experience every time.

Its colors and textures make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate, perfect for any gathering.

Filipino Coconut Macaroons

Filipino Coconut Macaroons pack a punch of flavor in every chewy, golden bite. Made with desiccated coconut, condensed milk, and eggs, they strike the perfect balance between crispy edges and soft centers.

These tropical treats are easy to make and even easier to share, making them a favorite for gatherings or everyday snacking. Their coconut-forward flavor is a delightful escape to sunny shores.

You’ll love how these macaroons bring a little piece of paradise into your kitchen.

Turon (Filipino Fried Banana Rolls)

Turon, or Filipino fried banana rolls, combines crisp spring roll wrappers with sweet saba bananas and jackfruit for a treat that’s unforgettable. Fried to a golden crisp and coated with caramelized sugar, these rolls are a sensory delight.

Pair them with vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels decadent and fun. Perfect for sharing or indulging solo, turon is a must-try for any dessert lover.

One taste, and you’ll be dreaming of your next bite.

Taisan (Filipino Chiffon Cake)

Taisan is a Filipino chiffon cake that’s light, fluffy, and incredibly comforting. Baked in a loaf pan, it’s brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with sugar and shredded cheese for a unique finish.

The soft texture and subtle sweetness make it a treat that’s impossible to resist. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as dessert, it’s versatile and always delightful.

You’ll find yourself savoring every bite and coming back for more.

Ube Pichi Pichi (Filipino Sticky Cassava Snack)

Ube Pichi Pichi combines the chewy texture of cassava with the vibrant, nutty flavor of ube. Rolled in grated coconut, these colorful bites are as delightful to eat as they are to look at.

They’re the perfect addition to any gathering, bringing both tradition and fun to the table. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a fantastic way to showcase Filipino flavors.

Every bite feels like a celebration of heritage and joy.