Halo-halo is a iconic Filipino dessert that’s a vibrant mix of shaved ice, sweetened fruits, beans, jellies, and topped with creamy ice cream and leche flan. This halo halo dessert recipe with ingredients from the Philippines is simple to prepare at home, using readily available items for a cool, layered treat perfect for hot days in Manila or family meriendas. Meaning “mix-mix” in Tagalog, it’s a customizable delight that combines textures and flavors for ultimate refreshment. Its origins blend indigenous ingredients with Spanish influences, making it a staple in Philippine street food and celebrations.
Halo-Halo
Why This Halo Halo Dessert Recipe Stands Out
This version is beginner-friendly, focusing on authentic Philippine ingredients like ube halaya and macapuno, without needing to cook everything from scratch—use store-bought sweetened fruits for ease. It’s versatile, allowing personalization, and assembles in under 15 minutes per serving, ideal for quick desserts or parties.
Ingredients for Halo Halo Dessert (Serves 4)
Source these from Filipino stores or online for authenticity:
- 4 cups shaved ice (from about 6 cups ice cubes)
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)
- 1/4 cup sweetened red beans (mongo)
- 1/4 cup sweetened white beans (garbanzos)
- 1/4 cup sweetened jackfruit (langka) strips
- 1/4 cup sweetened banana (saba) slices
- 1/4 cup macapuno (coconut sport) strings
- 1/4 cup nata de coco (coconut gel)
- 1/4 cup kaong (sugar palm fruit)
- 4 slices leche flan (optional, for topping)
- 4 scoops ube ice cream
- Pinipig (toasted rice) or cornflakes for crunch
- Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar if needed for sweetness
These colorful, sweetened components create the signature layered effect.
Ultimate Traditional Filipino Halo Halo Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Halo Halo Dessert Philippines Style
Assembly is key—layer for a beautiful presentation:
- Prepare the base: In tall glasses or bowls, add 1-2 tablespoons each of ube halaya, red beans, white beans, jackfruit, banana, macapuno, nata de coco, and kaong at the bottom.
- Add the ice: Fill each glass with shaved ice, mounding it slightly above the rim.
- Pour the milk: Drizzle 1/4 cup evaporated milk over the ice in each glass. Add sugar if desired for extra sweetness.
- Top it off: Crown with a scoop of ube ice cream, a slice of leche flan, and a sprinkle of pinipig or cornflakes. Serve immediately with a long spoon to mix everything together.
Total time: 15 minutes. The fun is in mixing (“halo”) the layers as you eat!
For a visual walkthrough, watch this beginner-friendly YouTube tutorial on making authentic halo-halo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lsixn-QjWGk
Tips for the Best Halo Halo Dessert in Philippines Style
- Ice quality: Use finely shaved ice for a snow-like texture—blend ice cubes if no shaver is available.
- Chill everything: Keep ingredients cold to prevent melting; assemble just before serving.
- Sweetness balance: Taste as you go—Filipino halo-halo is sweet, but adjust milk or sugar to preference.
- Make ahead: Prep fruits and beans in advance; store in fridge for up to 3 days.
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How To Make Halo-Halo, the Filipino Dessert That Cools Off Sweltering Summer Days
Variations on Halo Halo Dessert
- Tropical twist: Add fresh mango or pineapple chunks for a fruity boost.
- Vegan option: Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk and skip leche flan.
- Mini version: Serve in small cups for appetizers at parties.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximately: 400 calories, 5g protein, 10g fat, 75g carbs. It’s a treat high in sugars from fruits, but portions can be controlled for lighter enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Halo Halo Dessert
What does halo-halo mean?
It translates to “mix-mix,” referring to stirring the layers together before eating.
Can I make halo-halo without ube?
Yes, substitute with vanilla ice cream, but ube adds the authentic purple hue and flavor.
Is halo-halo gluten-free?
Naturally yes, as long as toppings like jellies are checked for additives.
This halo halo dessert recipe with ingredients from the Philippines captures the essence of Filipino summer treats. Mix it up and enjoy the burst of flavors!