Description
Biko Filipino Sticky Rice Cake is a beloved traditional dessert made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar. Sweet, chewy, and rich with caramelized coconut flavor, it’s a staple at Filipino celebrations, symbolizing love and togetherness. Simple, plant-based, and gluten-free, this sticky rice cake offers a comforting taste of Filipino heritage in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups glutinous rice (malagkit rice)
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
For the Latik Topping (Coconut Caramel):
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Cook the sticky rice: Rinse glutinous rice until water runs clear. Combine with coconut milk and water in a pot or rice cooker. Cook until tender and sticky but not mushy.
- Make the coconut caramel: In a large pan, combine remaining coconut milk and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and syrupy.
- Combine rice and caramel: Add cooked sticky rice to the caramel mixture. Stir continuously for 10–15 minutes until glossy and evenly coated.
- Transfer and flatten: Spread mixture into a greased 8×8-inch pan or onto banana leaves. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Prepare the latik topping: Simmer coconut milk in a separate pan until curds form and turn golden. Sprinkle latik over the Biko.
- Cool and serve: Let Biko cool for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use only glutinous rice (malagkit) for the signature sticky texture.
- Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even coating.
- Use thick, full-fat coconut milk for the richest flavor.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
- Allow Biko to cool fully before slicing for clean cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Filipino, Traditional
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Biko Filipino Sticky Rice Cake, Filipino Food Dessert, Sticky Rice Cake, Coconut Rice Dessert, Traditional Filipino Recipes, Glutinous Rice Dessert, Coconut Milk Dessert, Asian Desserts, Filipino Sweets