Bibingka Recipe Vegan: Easy Traditional Filipino Treat

If you’ve ever wandered through a Filipino Christmas market or enjoyed a festive family gathering, you’ve probably encountered bibingka — a beloved traditional rice cake that’s warm, fluffy, and slightly sweet.

Usually made with eggs and dairy, bibingka is a comforting treat that perfectly balances rich coconut flavors with a hint of smokiness from being cooked in banana leaves. But what if you follow a vegan lifestyle or simply want a plant-based alternative?

Good news! This vegan bibingka recipe preserves all the classic flavors and textures without any animal products, making it inclusive for everyone at your table.

This vegan bibingka is tender, moist, and packed with the natural sweetness of coconut milk and palm sugar. It’s perfect for celebrations, brunch, or just a cozy afternoon snack.

Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make at home, requiring just a few staple ingredients and some love. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious, cruelty-free version of a Filipino classic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan bibingka recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional Filipino treat without compromising your dietary preferences. It’s:

• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up even if you’re new to baking.
• Rich in flavor: Using coconut milk and vegan butter adds deep, creamy notes that echo the original taste.
• Perfect texture: Soft, slightly chewy, and delicately sweet — just like authentic bibingka.
• Customizable: You can add toppings like vegan cheese, salted coconut, or roasted coconut flakes for extra flair.
• Great for gatherings: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weekend brunch, this recipe will bring warmth and joy to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rice flour (glutinous rice flour works best)
• 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for richness)
• 3/4 cup coconut sugar or palm sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tbsp vegan butter, melted
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Banana leaves or parchment paper (for lining the pans)
• Optional toppings: thinly sliced vegan cheese, toasted coconut flakes, or sliced salted egg-style tofu (for traditional flair)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch round baking pans or traditional clay pots
• Baking sheet (optional, for catching drips)
• Oven or steamer
• Brush (for spreading vegan butter)

Instructions

1. Prepare your pans: Line your baking pans with banana leaves or parchment paper. If using banana leaves, soften them by passing over a flame or dipping in hot water, then pat dry. This adds a lovely aroma and prevents sticking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together rice flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix coconut milk, water, coconut sugar, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
4. Create the batter: Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, similar to pancake batter.
5. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you prefer traditional steaming, prepare a steamer instead and bring water to a boil.
6. Pour batter: Divide the batter evenly into the lined pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake or steam: Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or steam for about 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Add toppings: During the last 5 minutes of baking or steaming, brush the surface with melted vegan butter and add optional toppings like vegan cheese or toasted coconut flakes.
9. Cool and serve: Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, then slice and serve warm. Bibingka is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently.

Tips & Variations

“For authentic aroma, banana leaves are unbeatable, but parchment paper works well as a simple alternative.”

• Banana leaves: If you can’t find banana leaves, use parchment paper and add a few drops of coconut extract to the batter to mimic the subtle fragrance.
• Sweeteners: Swap coconut sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar, but reduce liquid slightly to maintain consistency.
• Flour options: Mixing in some tapioca starch can add chewiness, or use a blend of rice flour and glutinous rice flour for texture variation.
• Toppings: Try vegan cream cheese or coconut whipped cream for a creamy twist.
• Cooking method: For a smoky, traditional flavor, try baking the bibingka in a covered clay pot or using a cast-iron skillet with banana leaves underneath.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan bibingka is endlessly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas:

• Serve warm with a smear of vegan butter and a sprinkle of coconut sugar for a simple treat.
• Pair with hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Top with fresh tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for a refreshing contrast.
• Try alongside savory vegan dishes like Chipotle Black Beans and Rice or Collard Green Casserole for a complete meal.
• Make it a part of your holiday spread with other festive desserts like Chocolate Heaven Cake for a delicious variety.

Conclusion

This vegan bibingka recipe is a delightful way to embrace Filipino tradition while honoring plant-based living. Its tender crumb, rich coconut flavor, and subtle sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser for vegans and non-vegans alike.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

With easy-to-follow steps and flexible ingredients, you can customize your bibingka to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings or try different flours to perfect your ideal texture.

And if you love exploring diverse recipes, be sure to check out other delicious dishes like the Chicken Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes or the decadent Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe to keep your menu exciting and flavorful.

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