Traditional Filipino Puto Recipe (Steamed Rice Cake)

Traditional Filipino Puto Recipe (Steamed Rice Cake)

Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips and Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions

Puto is a classic Filipino steamed rice cake, traditionally made from slightly fermented rice dough (galapong). It’s a versatile dish served as a dessert, snack, or accompaniment to savory dishes like dinuguan (pork blood stew).

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups rice flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups coconut milk (or water)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• Cheese slices (for topping, optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, sift together rice flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add coconut milk and eggs, then mix until smooth. Optionally add vanilla extract.
3. Pour batter into greased or lined individual molds (ramekins/muffin tins) until 3/4 full.
4. Steam over boiling water for 25-35 minutes until firm (test with a toothpick).
5. Add cheese slices on top during the last 5 minutes of steaming if desired.
6. Let cool slightly before removing from molds. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Variations

• Traditional method: Substitute rice flour with 2 cups soaked overnight rice, ground into galapong batter.
• Flavor options: Add ube (purple yam) powder, pandan extract, or cocoa powder.
• Texture: For softer puto, use all-purpose flour blended with rice flour (1:1 ratio).
• Toppings: Try salted eggs, grated coconut, or butter instead of cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between puto and bibingka?

Puto is steamed and typically white/plain, while bibingka is baked in clay pots with charcoal and often includes toppings like salted eggs and coconut. Puto is lighter and less dense.

Why did my puto turn out dense?

This usually happens if the batter is overmixed or the steaming temperature is too high. Ensure your baking powder is fresh and steam at medium heat.

Can I make puto without a steamer?

Yes—use a large pot with a rack or elevated heatproof plate. Add boiling water (not touching the molds) and cover tightly with foil or lid.

Related guides

• Filipino Biko Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Sticky Rice Cake
• Buko Pandan: The Ultimate Filipino Creamy Coconut Dessert Salad
• Filipino Cassava Cake: A Complete Guide to This Classic Dessert

Sources

• Puto (food) - Wikipedia
• puto - Wiktionary, the free dictionary