Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake your cake.

Step 2: Cream the Cream Cheese and Sugar

In a large bowl, begin by creaming together the cream cheese and granulated sugar. This step is crucial as it helps create a smooth batter that will ensure the cake is light and airy. Beat the mixture until it’s fluffy and well combined, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Next, add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This allows the eggs to fully incorporate into the mixture and helps create a stable structure for the cake.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Now, stir in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and cream of coconut. The cream of coconut is what gives Bibingka its signature coconut flavor, so make sure to mix it in thoroughly. Follow up by adding the milk to this wet mixture, creating a creamy base that will give your cake the perfect texture.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweet rice flour and baking powder. Sweet rice flour is the key ingredient in Bibingka, giving it its unique texture. Unlike regular all-purpose flour, sweet rice flour is glutinous, which makes the cake moist and chewy. Once the dry ingredients are well combined, gradually fold them into the wet ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

Step 6: Add the Pineapple

Drain the crushed pineapple to remove any excess juice. Gently fold the pineapple into the batter. The pineapple adds a subtle, tangy sweetness that complements the rich coconut flavor. It’s the perfect touch to make this cake even more delicious!

Step 7: Pour the Batter Into the Pan

Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 8: Add the Sugar Topping

Before baking, sprinkle the top of the batter with a combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar. The brown sugar will caramelize during baking, creating a beautiful golden crust, while the granulated sugar adds an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 9: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. Check the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. If the cake is not yet set, continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, checking every few minutes to avoid overbaking.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once the cake is done, allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes. Once it has cooled slightly, cut the cake into squares or diamond shapes. The cake will firm up as it cools, making it easier to slice. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!