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Biko (Filipino Sticky Rice Dessert)

Biko is a sweet and chewy Filipino dessert made with sticky rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar, topped with a rich caramel glaze. It's a simple but indulgent treat that’s perfect for family gatherings or afternoon snacks.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Filipino
Calories: 330
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups glutinous rice sweet rice or sticky rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional (for topping and presentation):
  • Latik caramelized coconut curds
  • Banana leaves for lining the dish or decoration

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Sticky Rice
  1. Rinse the glutinous rice until the water runs mostly clear. Add 2 cups of water and cook the rice using a rice cooker or on the stovetop. Don’t overcook—it should be tender but still hold shape.
Step 2: Make the Coconut Syrup
  1. In a wide pan, combine coconut milk, brown sugar, and salt. Simmer over medium heat, stirring often. Once the mixture thickens slightly and smells caramel-like, it’s ready.
Step 3: Mix the Rice and Syrup
  1. Add the cooked rice to the syrup and stir. Keep stirring until the rice absorbs most of the liquid and turns sticky and glossy. It should pull away from the pan as one mass.
Step 4: Transfer to Dish
  1. Grease a square or rectangular dish (or line it with banana leaves). Spoon in the sticky rice mixture and press it down evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Add Topping (Optional)
  1. Top with latik if you made some. It adds a toasty crunch. You can also bake the dish at 350°F for 10–15 minutes if you want a firmer top.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
  1. Let it cool completely before slicing into squares or rectangles. This helps it firm up and makes slicing clean and easy

Notes

  • Use only glutinous (sticky) rice—other rice types won't stick together properly.
  • You can make latik by simmering extra coconut cream until it separates.
  • This dessert keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 days in a sealed container.
  • Great make-ahead dish for potlucks or gatherings!