Halo-Halo with Crushed Ice and Sweetened Beans

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

A refreshing Filipino dessert layered with sweetened beans, fruits, jellies, and topped with shaved ice and creamy leche flan. This Filipino-inspired recipe, ready in about 15 minutes, layers crushed ice, 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 280 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 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a tall glass or bowl, layer 1/4 cup sweetened red mung beans and 1/4 cup sweetened kidney beans at the bottom.
  2. Step 2: Add 1/4 cup sliced ripe jackfruit and 1/4 cup sweetened coconut strips evenly on top of the beans.
  3. Step 3: Spoon 2 tablespoons purple yam halaya and 1 small shaved ripe banana in layers, then add 2 slices of leche flan.
  4. Step 4: Fill the glass with 2 cups crushed ice, pressing gently to compact, then pour 1/2 cup evaporated milk evenly over the ice until it seeps through the layers.
  5. Step 5: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons toasted rice flakes (pinipig) on top. Taste and add sugar if additional sweetness is desired.
  6. Step 6: Serve immediately with a long spoon to mix all layers while eating for a blend of textures and flavors.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Halo-Halo with Crushed Ice and Sweetened Beans 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 with Crushed Ice and Sweetened Beans?

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 with Crushed Ice and Sweetened Beans?

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 with Crushed Ice and Sweetened Beans 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 with Crushed Ice and Sweetened Beans?

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.

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