Tagalog for “mix-mix,” this traditional Filipino dessert is a party in a glass.

Mix thoroughly to get all of the ingredients incorporated before you take that first, perfect bite.

Look for halo-halo ingredients in your local Asian market or onlinethe more variety of mix-ins, the better.

Halo Halo dessert

Credit:Rachel Marek. Food Styling: Annie Probst

The toppings of Halo-Halo also carry cultural significance.

Leche flan came from Spanish colonization, which introduced milk-based desserts to Filipino cuisine.

Ingredients for Halo-Halo

Every Filipino has a favorite combination of halo-halo ingredients.

Halo Halo Ingredients

Credit:Rachel Marek

All this gets topped with shaved ice and a drizzle of evaporated milk.

How To Make Your Own Shaved Ice

No shaved ice machine?

A high-powered blender or food processor will do the trick.

layering halo halo ingredients in glass

Credit:Rachel Marek

Start with crushed ice, if possible, then blitz until fine and fluffy.

Feel free to add more or less of any of the ingredients you enjoy.

Test Kitchen Tip:Look for pre-mixed jars of halo-halo ingredients at your local Asian grocery stores.

Halo Halo

Credit:Rachel Marek

Common brands include Tropics, Kapuso, Kamayan, and Monika.

Top with ube halaya, leche flan, and ube ice cream.

Drizzle with Evaporated Milk

To finish the halo-halo recipe, drizzle evaporated milk over the top.

topping Halo Halo dessert with condensed milk

Credit:Rachel Marek

Halo-halo is best enjoyed right away.