Halo-halo is a beloved Filipino dessert that translates to “mix-mix” in English, aptly describing its colorful and eclectic combination of ingredients. This delightful dessert consists of a base of shaved ice, topped with a variety of sweet treats such as sweetened beans, jellies, fruits like bananas and jackfruit, and sometimes even chunks of leche flan or ube (purple yam) ice cream. To finish, it’s drizzled with evaporated milk or condensed milk for added creaminess and sweetness. Each spoonful offers a symphony of flavors and textures, from the refreshing coolness of the ice to the creamy richness of the milk and the chewy sweetness of the various toppings. Halo-halo is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful sensory experience that embodies the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions of the Philippines.

Halo-Halo
Ingredients
- 2 cups shaved ice
- 1 ripe large banana
- 1 cup young shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup sweet corn or chickpeas
- 2 cups evaporated milk
- 1 cup firm gelatin set into a gel and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 2 ripe mangoes
- 1 cup ripe jackfruit
- 1 cup cooked sweet yams or ube halaya
- 4 scoops your favorite ice cream
- 1/2 cup fruity cereal, nuts, or rice krispies
Instructions
- Peel mangoes and slice into half-inch cubes.
- Divide each ingredient into 4 equal parts. Get 4 tall glasses, then place each ingredient layer by layer.
- Put one-half cup of shaved ice into each glass.
- Pour a quarter of the evaporated milk over shaved ice to each glass.
- Put a scoop of ice cream on top.
- Top with nuts or rice crispies.