Royal Bibingka is super easy to make in under 30 minutes and so delicious! This Filipino rice cake made of glutinous rice is soft, chewy, cheesy, and gluten-free, too. It’s traditionally served on Christmastime but there’s no reason not to enjoy it year-round!
If you’re looking for the ultimate dessert to round off your Noche Buena feast, this delicious sticky rice cake is for you! Like bibingka and puto bumbong, Royal bibingka is traditionally associated with the Christmas season, but unlike the two, which use regular rice batter, this Vigan version is made of glutinous rice flour for a chewy, mochi-like texture.
This Filipino delicacy is not only delicious, but it’s also easy to make for a crowd or anytime cravings. You can have a whole pan ready to enjoy in five simple steps and 30 minutes!
The recipe requires seven simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. There’s also no fancy equipment needed, just a whisk to combine the batter.
Cooking steps
- Make the batter. Whisk the glutinous rice flour, sugar, coconut milk, evaporated milk, and eggs into a thin, smooth batter.
- Transfer to a baking dish. You can use a baking dish, ramekins, or cast-iron skillet. Grease the inside of the pan with butter to keep the cake from sticking. Or line with banana leaves brushed with butter to add aroma.
- Bake in a 350 F oven. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and bake in the oven. Insert a toothpick in the center to check for doneness; if it comes out clean, the bibingka is cooked. It should take 15 to 20 minutes for the mixture to set if using an 11 x 9 pan. Using an 8 x 8 pan will make the cake thicker and require a longer cook time.
- Add the toppings. Remove the pan from the oven, brush with butter, and sprinkle with sugar and shredded cheese.
- Bake. Return to the oven and bake for another 3 to 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before slicing.
How to serve and store
- This Vigan royal bibingka is traditionally served during the Christmas season, but there’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy it year-round. It’s super easy to make in the oven and makes a tasty snack or dessert treat with coffee or your favorite cold drinks.
- Cover the pan tightly with plastic film to store leftovers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- The sticky rice cake tends to harden when cold. To serve, heat in the microwave for a few seconds until soft and warm.
