Sweetened Coconut and Fruit Halo-Halo

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

A refreshing Filipino shaved ice dessert layered with sweetened fruits, jellies, and creamy coconut milk, perfect for hot days. This filipino-inspired desserts ready in about 10 minutes layers shaved ice, sweetened red beans, jackfruit strips 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 320 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: 10 min Serves 2 Filipino cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large tall glass, layer 1/2 cup sweetened red beans, 1/2 cup jackfruit strips, 1/2 cup sweetened banana slices, 1/4 cup nata de coco, and 1/4 cup sweet corn kernels evenly.
  2. Step 2: Add 3 cups shaved ice packed lightly on top of the fruit layers.
  3. Step 3: Pour 1/2 cup evaporated milk evenly over the shaved ice, then drizzle 2 tbsp sugar on top.
  4. Step 4: Spoon 1/4 cup ube halaya over the milk and sprinkle 2 tbsp toasted pinipig (rice flakes) for texture.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately with a spoon, mixing ingredients as you eat for the best combined flavors.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Sweetened Coconut and Fruit Halo-Halo take to make?

Total time is about 10 minutes (10 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 Sweetened Coconut and Fruit Halo-Halo?

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 Sweetened Coconut and Fruit Halo-Halo?

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 Sweetened Coconut and Fruit Halo-Halo 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 Sweetened Coconut and Fruit Halo-Halo?

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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