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Fluffy Steamed Rice Cakes (Puto Bigas)

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Fluffy Steamed Rice Cakes (Puto Bigas) are light, slightly sweet Filipino rice cakes made from ground rice or rice flour, steamed to soft, airy perfection. They’re perfect as a snack, side dish, or served with savory meals like dinuguan or pancit.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time if using rice)
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 small cakes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Steaming
  • Cuisine: Filipino
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rice (soaked overnight) or 1 cup rice flour
  • 3/4 to 1 cup water (or coconut milk for richer flavor)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Optional: sliced cheese, grated cheese, butter, food coloring

Instructions

  1. If using whole rice, soak it overnight, then drain and blend with water until smooth. If using rice flour, mix it directly with water.
  2. In a bowl, combine rice batter with sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.
  3. Lightly grease puto molds or muffin cups and pour batter 3/4 full.
  4. Boil water in a steamer. Place molds inside, cover with a cloth under the lid, and steam for 10–15 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
  5. If using cheese, place on top during the last 3–5 minutes of steaming to melt.
  6. Remove from steamer, cool slightly, unmold, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Coconut milk adds richness and flavor to the batter.
  • Top with cheese or salted egg for a savory twist.
  • Use ube extract or food coloring for visual variety.
  • Mini molds yield bite-sized treats perfect for parties.
  • Microwave with a damp paper towel or steam briefly to reheat.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/fluffy-steamed-rice-cakes-puto-bigas/