Halo-Halo Inspired Shaved Ice with Sweet Beans and Coconut Gelatin

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A refreshing Filipino dessert featuring shaved ice layered with sweet beans, coconut gelatin, and tropical fruits. This filipino-inspired desserts ready in about 15 minutes layers ice cubes, sweetened red mung beans, sweetened kidney beans into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 2, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Serves 2 Filipino cuisine 350 cal/serving
Plan a meal with the AI → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Place 4 cups of ice cubes into a blender or ice shaver and process until finely shaved, then transfer to a large tall glass or bowl.
  2. Step 2: Layer 1/2 cup sweetened red mung beans and 1/2 cup sweetened kidney beans evenly over the shaved ice.
  3. Step 3: Add 1/2 cup sliced ripe jackfruit and 1/2 cup coconut gelatin cubes on top of the beans.
  4. Step 4: Drizzle 1 cup evaporated milk mixed with 2 tbsp sugar evenly over the shaved ice and toppings.
  5. Step 5: Spoon 1/4 cup purple yam (ube) halaya on one side and sprinkle 2 tbsp toasted pinipig over the top.
  6. Step 6: Finish with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on top and serve immediately with a spoon.

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Knives & cutting boards → Shop all kitchen tools →

Frequently asked questions

How long does Halo-Halo Inspired Shaved Ice with Sweet Beans and Coconut Gelatin take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Halo-Halo Inspired Shaved Ice with Sweet Beans and Coconut Gelatin?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Halo-Halo Inspired Shaved Ice with Sweet Beans and Coconut Gelatin?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Halo-Halo Inspired Shaved Ice with Sweet Beans and Coconut Gelatin for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Halo-Halo Inspired Shaved Ice with Sweet Beans and Coconut Gelatin?

Filipino desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

Related recipes