Halo-Halo has always been a treat that brings joy to every table. Its mix of flavors, colors, and textures makes it more than just a dessert; it feels like a celebration in every spoonful.
Imagine a tall glass filled with shaved ice, creamy toppings, sweet fruits, and chewy jellies, all crowned with ube goodness. It’s refreshing, filling, and so satisfying on warm days or during family gatherings. The beauty of this dessert is that it’s flexible; you can make it in different ways, adding your own little touch to suit your taste.
In this guide, you’ll see how simple ingredients like ube condensed milk and coconut gel can give your Halo-Halo a lively twist.
Both add richness and texture, making your dessert not just colorful but also extra delightful. And the fun part, you can choose from a few creative variations that take inspiration from different dessert styles.
Why Ube and Coconut Gel Shine in Desserts
Before we move on to the recipes, let’s discuss the star ingredients. Ube condensed milk is loved for its creamy sweetness and bold purple shade. It blends easily into ice, drinks, or even cakes, leaving behind a smooth texture and a sweet, comforting flavor. It also makes your dessert look strikingly beautiful, perfect for serving at parties or even for simple family time.
On the other hand, coconut gel (nata de coco) adds a chewy, refreshing bite that balances out the creaminess of milk-based ingredients. These little cubes are translucent, light, and fun to eat; each spoonful of Halo-Halo feels more exciting when they are included.
Together, the creaminess of ube and the chewy freshness of coconut gel create a wonderful mix that makes this dessert stand out.
The Classic Choice: Halo-Halo with Ube and Coconut Gel
When people think of Filipino desserts, Halo-Halo often comes to mind first. This version highlights the sweet creaminess of Sweet Cow Ube Sweetened Condensed Milk along with shaved ice, tropical fruits, and jellies.
Ingredients:
- Crushed ice or shaved ice
- 3 tablespoons Sweet Cow Ube Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Slices of sweetened banana, jackfruit, and beans (optional add-ons)
- A scoop of ube ice cream (optional but lovely)
- A handful of coconut gel cubes
- Leche flan or pudding (for topping)
Steps:
- Fill a tall glass or bowl halfway with shaved ice.
- Add layers of fruits, sweetened beans, and jellies.
- Pour ube condensed milk over the ice for a creamy drizzle.
- Add a scoop of ice cream and flan on top.
- Finish with coconut gel cubes for that chewy bite.
A Korean Twist: Ube Bingsoo
If you’re looking for something slightly different but still refreshing, try a Korean-style shaved ice dessert known as Bingsoo. It’s similar to Halo-Halo but a bit more focused on creamy toppings and shaved ice. Adding coconut gel gives it a playful, chewy twist.
Ingredients:
- Shaved ice (extra fine works best)
- 3 tablespoons Sweet Cow Ube Sweetened Condensed Milk
- A scoop of ube or vanilla ice cream
- Fresh fruits like mango cubes or strawberries
- A topping of coconut gel
Steps:
- Place a mound of fine shavings of ice in a bowl.
- Drizzle ube condensed milk generously on top.
- Add ice cream and fresh fruit for extra sweetness.
- Sprinkle coconut gel cubes for a chewy finish.
Refreshing Drink Style: Ube Sago with Coconut Gel
For people who enjoy sipping rather than eating with a spoon, Ube Sago is an amazing option. It’s a cool drink filled with pearls, jelly cubes, and creaminess. Adding Jubes Coconut Gel makes every sip more fun, with chewy textures balancing the sweetness.
Ingredients:
- Cooked sago pearls
- 3 tablespoons Sweet Cow Ube Sweetened Condensed Milk
- A handful of Jubes Coconut Gel cubes
- Cold milk or chilled water
- Ice cubes
Steps:
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
- Add cooked sago pearls and coconut gel.
- Pour in chilled milk mixed with ube condensed milk.
- Stir well and sip with a wide straw.
Quick Indulgence: Ube Milkshake or Smoothie
Sometimes you just want something quick to make. An ube milkshake or smoothie is the easiest option; it’s creamy, colorful, and always satisfying. With coconut gel added, it gets a chewy surprise in every sip.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold milk
- 3 tablespoons Sweet Cow Ube Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Ice cubes
- A handful of Jubes Coconut Gel
Steps:
- Blend milk, ube condensed milk, and ice cubes until smooth.
- Pour into a tall glass.
- Stir in coconut gel before serving.
Final Thoughts
Halo-Halo is already known for being a dessert filled with life and color. Adding ube condensed milk and coconut gel makes it even more special, bringing creamy richness and chewy freshness together in one delightful treat.
From the classic Halo-Halo glass to a Korean-inspired Bingsoo, a refreshing drink, or a simple milkshake, you can always make it in a way that fits your mood. Each option feels unique yet equally satisfying, making them all worth trying.
