Biko (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake)

It’s a Sweet and Chewy Filipino Treat!

Biko, a traditional Filipino rice cake, is a delightful combination of sticky rice, coconut milk and brown sugar. This chewy, sweet treat is a staple at family gatherings, celebrations and holidays, offering a taste of comfort and nostalgia with every bite. Thanks to Minute® Sticky Rice Cups, making this beloved dessert at home has never been easier.

Biko is a popular Filipino kakanin, or rice-based delicacy, that is often served as a merienda (afternoon snack) or dessert. It features glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and brown sugar, resulting in a rich, caramelized flavor and sticky texture. Some versions include a topping called latik, a coconut-based curd, for an added layer of sweetness and texture.

Why You Need to Try It

Biko is not just a delicious dessert—it’s also incredibly simple to make with just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients. The combination of creamy coconut milk and sweet caramelized sugar creates a deep, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the chewiness of sticky rice. Plus, using Minute Sticky Rice Cups cuts down on preparation time, making it a quick and easy option for satisfying your sweet tooth.

A Staple at Filipino Celebrations

In the Philippines, Biko is often served during birthdays, fiestas and holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Eve. It’s a dish that symbolizes prosperity and good fortune, making it a must-have for gatherings with loved ones. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy as a snack, Biko is a treat that brings people together.

Ingredient Spotlight: Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a key ingredient in Biko, giving the rice cake its signature rich and creamy consistency. It enhances the dish with a subtle nuttiness that balances out the sweetness of the brown sugar. When cooked together, the coconut milk and sugar form a caramel-like coating around the sticky rice, creating that irresistible chewiness.

Customizing Your Biko Recipe (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake)

One of the best things about Biko is its versatility. While the classic version is delicious on its own, you can customize it with different toppings and flavors to suit your preferences:

• Latik: A traditional coconut curd topping that adds a slightly crispy and caramelized texture.
• Toasted Coconut: For an added crunch and extra coconut flavor.
• Mango Slices: A fresh, fruity contrast to the sweet rice cake.
• Pinipig (Pounded Young Rice): A traditional Filipino topping that adds a unique texture.

Pairing Ideas for Biko

Biko is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of drinks and snacks:

• Coffee or Tea: The sweetness of Biko is balanced beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich, chocolatey drink enhances the flavors of the coconut and caramelized sugar.
• Savory Snacks: Some enjoy eating Biko alongside salty snacks like peanuts or cheese for a sweet-and-savory contrast.

Making Biko Even Easier

Traditional Biko recipes require soaking glutinous rice and cooking it slowly to achieve the perfect texture. But with Minute Sticky Rice Cups, you can skip the lengthy preparation without compromising on flavor or texture. These convenient rice cups provide the ideal consistency for Biko, making the cooking process quick and hassle-free.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Biko is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them properly to maintain their delicious texture:

• Refrigeration: Store Biko in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To restore its softness, warm Biko in the microwave for a few seconds or steam it lightly before serving.
• Freezing: While Biko can be frozen, its texture may become slightly firmer. If freezing, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

Bringing the Taste of the Philippines to Your Kitchen

Whether you have fond memories of enjoying Biko served during special occasions or you’re discovering it for the first time, this easy recipe allows you to bring a taste of Filipino tradition into your home. Thanks to the convenience of Minute Sticky Rice Cups, making this beloved dessert is simple, quick and incredibly satisfying.

Try this Biko recipe today and experience the delightful combination of sweet, chewy and creamy flavors in every bite!

Biko (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake) Recipe FAQs

How do you make Biko (Filipino sticky rice cake)?
Biko is made by combining sticky rice with a sweet coconut and brown sugar mixture. The cooked rice is mixed into the caramelized coconut sauce, then pressed into a pan and allowed to set before cutting into squares. Using Minute® Sticky Rice Cups makes this process even quicker and easier.

What kind of rice is best for Biko?
Traditional Biko is made with glutinous or sticky rice, which gives it its signature chewy texture. Minute® Sticky Rice Cups are a great option because they provide the right consistency without the long cooking time.

Can I make Biko without coconut milk?
Coconut milk is essential to achieving Biko’s authentic flavor and creamy texture. However, if needed, you can substitute it with evaporated milk or a combination of regular milk and a little butter, though the taste will differ.

How do you store Biko?
Biko should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. Before serving, let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly to soften the texture.