filipino dessert recipe
- The Best filipino dessert recipe
- Kare-Kare-Style Cheese Custard with Banana Slices
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Kare-Kare-Style Cheese Custard with Banana Slices Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Kare-Kare-Style Cheese Custard with Banana Slices
The Best filipino dessert recipe
I love that it’s naturally sweetened with coconut milk and condensed milk, which means it’s lighter than traditional desserts while still being deeply satisfying. The ingredients are easy to find, and the recipe adjusts nicely for different occasions—whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or just a quiet Sunday afternoon. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra coconut milk or condensed milk without wasting anything. My family doesn’t just eat it; they love it, and that’s what makes it worth the effort. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a little joy in every bite, and it’s something you can enjoy every day without feeling guilty.

Kare-Kare-Style Cheese Custard with Banana Slices
A creamy, comforting Filipino-inspired dessert that blends the rich flavors of tomato-based sauce with tender cheese dough, topped with fresh banana slices. Perfect for a light yet satisfying end to a meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- Pinch of cinnamon
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper. Slowly pour in milk while whisking to avoid lumps. -
2
Add shredded mozzarella cheese to the bowl and mix until smooth. Transfer the dough to a greased baking dish. -
3
In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft (3–4 mins). Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 mins until slightly thickened. Cool before pouring over the cheese dough. -
4
Bake the cheese dough for 15 mins. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the top and return to the oven for another 10 mins until bubbly and golden on top. -
5
Remove from oven. Arrange banana slices on top, drizzle with melted butter, and sprinkle with cinnamon. Return to the oven for 2–3 mins to lightly toast the bananas.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Oven-safe baking dish (8×8 inches)
- Parchment paper
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Kare-Kare-Style Cheese Custard with Banana Slices Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Kare-Kare-Style Cheese Custard with Banana Slices
How do I store leftover Filipino dessert?
Leftover leche flan keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each to prevent scorching. Avoid overheating, as it can curdle the custard.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time for a party?
Yes! Leche flan tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day ahead, store it in an airtight container, and reheat as directed. For a crowd, consider serving it in individual ramekins for easier serving.
What if my custard thickens too much during cooking?
If the custard thickens beyond your desired consistency, gently warm it with a splash of heavy cream or milk (about 1–2 tablespoons) to loosen it. Stirring slowly helps avoid breaking the custard. For a smoother texture, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free or dairy-free diet?
Traditional leche flan contains dairy and is not gluten-free. To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free egg substitute. For gluten-free, ensure all other ingredients (like vanilla or sugar) are certified free of cross-contamination. Adjustments may slightly alter texture.
