Puto(Rice Cake)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Philippine

Soft, fluffy rice cakes with a touch of sweetness and vanilla, steamed to perfection—ideal for snack time, dessert, or special occasions, appealing to all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 cups rice flour or Bisquick mix
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 12 oz evaporated milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Mix all dry ingredients together in a bowl.
  2. Add beaten eggs, evaporated milk, and vanilla; blend well until smooth.
  3. Optional: add a drop of food coloring and mix.
  4. Pour the batter into muffin pans, filling each 3/4 full.
  5. Steam for 12 to 15 minutes until cooked through.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, use rice flour for a traditional texture, but Bisquick can be a convenient substitute. Make sure to steam the puto in a covered pot to retain moisture. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the taste. Adding a drop of food coloring is optional but can make them visually appealing, especially for special occasions.

Serving Suggestions

Puto is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with savory dishes like Macque Choux(Cajun Smothered Corn). Serve them as a snack, breakfast treat, or dessert, and consider topping with a slice of cheese or a drizzle of condensed milk for added richness. They are also great for parties and gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover puto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam them for a few minutes to restore their soft texture, or microwave them for 15-20 seconds, ensuring they don’t dry out. They can also be served at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Puto(Rice Cake) contains roughly 546 calories, with 8g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), protein (17% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

546 kcal 27% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.5g 17% DV
Total Fat 2.9g 4% DV
Carbs 85.5g 31% DV
Fiber 2.9g 10% DV
Sugar 7.9g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 79.6mg 3% DV
Potassium 374.5mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 64.5mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 2.8mg 3% DV
Calcium 75.1mg 6% DV
Iron 3.2mg 18% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of flour instead of rice flour?

While rice flour is traditional for puto, you can experiment with all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend if needed. However, these substitutes may change the texture, making it less chewy and more cake-like. It's best to stick with rice flour for the authentic taste and texture.

What can I do if my puto doesn't rise?

If your puto doesn't rise, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as it plays a crucial role in leavening. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the wet ingredients, as this can lead to dense puto. Proper steaming is also essential; ensure the water is boiling before placing the pans in the steamer.

Can I add flavors to the puto batter?

Absolutely! You can incorporate flavors like pandan, coconut, or chocolate by adding extracts or purees to the batter. These variations can make the puto more exciting. Just be cautious with the liquid content, as it may affect the overall consistency.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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