Puto Cheese ala Goldilocks: Fluffy, Sweet, and Cheesy Filipino Treat

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Introduction

Soft, slightly sweet, and topped with melted cheese, Puto Cheese is a beloved Filipino steamed rice cake that’s perfect for breakfast, merienda, or party platters. This version is inspired by the famous Goldilocks-style puto – light, moist, and topped with delicious cheese strips that melt right into the cake. Whether you’re new to Filipino cooking or craving a taste of home, this easy, no-fail recipe is sure to become a household favorite!

Ingredients (Yields ~25 pieces)

For the Batter:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups white sugar
  • 4 tbsp baking powder
  • 4 sachets powdered milk (33g each)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup oil, melted butter, or margarine
  • 3 cups water
  • 4 small eggs (or 2 large eggs)
  • Cheese strips (for topping and filling – use Quickmelt or processed cheese)

Tips for Success

  1. Flour Power: Use sifted all-purpose flour for a lighter, smoother batter.
  2. No Lumps: Mix the batter just until combined – overmixing can make the puto dense.
  3. Steam Right: Wrap the steamer lid with cloth to prevent water from dripping and ruining the tops.
  4. Cheese Choices: Quickmelt cheese works best for gooey tops, but regular cheddar offers a sharp, salty contrast.
  5. Batch Size: Use small puto molds or cupcake liners inside a steamer basket – avoid overfilling!
  6. Extra Moisture: Let the steamed puto rest before removing from the mold to keep them moist and fluffy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Prepare Molds: Grease puto molds or silicone cups with melted butter or oil. Set aside.

  • Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, powdered milk, and salt.

  • Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine eggs, water, vanilla, and melted butter or oil. Mix until well incorporated.

  • Combine: Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

  • Pour and Top: Fill each mold about ¾ full. Insert a small cheese strip into each mold. For regular cheese, place some on top before steaming; for quickmelt, add on top after steaming and steam again for 2 more minutes.

  • Steam: Arrange molds in a steamer, cover with a lid wrapped in cloth, and steam over low heat for 10–12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

  • Cool & Serve: Let cool slightly before removing from molds. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Piece – Estimated)

  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Calcium: 8% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV

Tip: For a lighter version, use low-fat milk powder, reduce sugar slightly, and use egg whites only.

Storage & Serving

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat by steaming for 3–5 minutes or microwaving with a damp paper towel.
  • Freeze for up to 1 month (wrap individually to prevent drying out).
  • Serve with hot chocolate, coffee, or alongside savory dishes like pancit or dinuguan.

Whether you’re making them for a celebration or enjoying them as an afternoon treat, this Puto Cheese ala Goldilocks recipe brings a nostalgic taste of Filipino comfort straight to your kitchen – soft, cheesy, and oh-so-irresistible. 🇵🇭💛

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