Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake or baking pan (about 9-inch or similar) with melted butter. You can also use banana leaves to line the pan for a traditional touch.
Prepare the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract (if using). Whisk them together until well incorporated and slightly frothy.
Gradually add the melted butter to the egg mixture, stirring continuously to combine.
Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and evaporated milk. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
Slowly add the glutinous rice flour to the wet mixture. Stir until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. If the batter is too thick, you can add a little more coconut milk to achieve a runny consistency.
Strain the batter through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove any lumps if necessary.
Bake the Bibingka:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top appears set (a toothpick inserted should come out clean).
Once done, remove the bibingka from the oven and immediately drizzle the remaining sweetened condensed milk over the top. This step adds extra sweetness and richness.
Sprinkle grated cheese generously over the top (and add slices of salted egg if using). Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and begins to turn golden brown.
Final Touches:
Once baked, let the bibingka cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a serving plate.
Optionally, garnish with fresh grated coconut for added texture and flavor.
Serve:
Slice into wedges and serve warm for the best experience. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or a sweet drink.
Tips
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations: You can experiment by adding toppings like toasted coconut flakes or fruit for added texture and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Royal Bibingka! If you have any further questions or need more tips, feel free to ask!
