Irresistible Special Pandan Cheese Puto Recipe (Soft, Fluffy & Easy!)

Special Pandan Cheese Puto

Special Pandan Cheese Puto is a soft, fluffy, and delicious Filipino steamed cake made with a simple batter flavored with fragrant pandan and topped with melted cheddar cheese. This easy puto recipe is perfect for breakfast, merienda, family gatherings, birthdays, holidays, or whenever you’re craving a light and satisfying snack. Even though traditional puto is usually made with rice flour, this version uses all-purpose flour, making it simple, and beginner-friendly without sacrificing its soft texture.

Puto has long been one of the most loved Filipino delicacies. It is commonly paired with savory dishes like dinuguan, but many people also enjoy it on its own with cheese as a sweet and salty snack. Adding pandan gives this classic favorite a beautiful green color and a wonderfully aromatic flavor that makes every bite even more enjoyable.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. There is no need for special equipment or complicated techniques. Simply mix the dry ingredients, add the wet ingredients, pour into molds, steam, add cheese, and continue steaming until perfectly cooked.

The result is incredibly soft, moist, fluffy puto with a rich buttery taste, subtle pandan aroma, and creamy melted cheddar cheese on top. Whether you’re making it for your family or selling it as part of a small food business, this recipe delivers consistently delicious results.

Why You’ll Love This Special Pandan Cheese Puto

• Soft, fluffy, and moist texture
• Fragrant pandan flavor
• Rich buttery taste
• Delicious melted cheddar cheese topping
• No mixer required
• Beginner-friendly recipe
• Affordable ingredients
• Perfect for breakfast, merienda, parties, or negosyo

8 Tips for the Best Special Pandan Cheese Puto

1. Sift the dry ingredients.

Sifting the flour and baking powder helps create a lighter batter and prevents lumps.

2. Mix only until combined.

Avoid overmixing the batter. Stir just until all ingredients are incorporated to keep the puto soft and tender.

3. Adjust the pandan paste.

Different brands have different strengths. Start with the recommended amount, then adjust according to your preferred flavor and color.

4. Fill the molds only up to ¾ full.

Leaving space allows the batter to rise properly during steaming without overflowing.

5. Wait until the water is boiling.

Only place the molds inside the steamer once the water has reached a full boil. This helps produce a better rise.

6. Steam over medium-high heat.

Steady steam cooks the puto evenly while keeping it soft and fluffy.

7. Add the cheese near the end.

Place the cheddar cheese on top after about 10 minutes of steaming, then steam for another 2 minutes until melted.

8. Allow the puto to cool slightly.

Let the puto rest for a few minutes before removing it from the molds to help it release more easily.

Other Ways of Cooking

Oven

Yes. You can bake the puto using oven-safe molds.

• Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
• Fill the molds ¾ full.
• Bake for approximately 15–20 minutes, depending on the mold size.
• Add the cheese during the last 2–3 minutes of baking until melted.

The texture will be slightly drier than steamed puto but still delicious.

Air Fryer

Yes, provided your air fryer can accommodate heat-safe molds.

• Preheat to 160°C (320°F).
• Cook for approximately 10–15 minutes.
• Add the cheese during the last 2 minutes until melted.

The tops may become lightly golden, unlike traditionally steamed puto.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day in a cool room.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Before serving, steam for about 2–3 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds to restore the soft texture.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then steam for several minutes until warm and soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh milk instead of evaporated milk?

Yes. Fresh milk can be used, although evaporated milk provides a richer flavor.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes. If using salted butter, you may slightly reduce the added salt.

Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes. Processed cheese, quick-melt cheese, mozzarella, or Edam cheese all work well, although cheddar provides the classic flavor.

Why did my puto become dense?

Overmixing the batter or using expired baking powder can prevent the puto from rising properly.

Why did my puto crack on top?

Slight cracking is completely normal and often indicates that the puto has risen well.

How do I know when the puto is fully cooked?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the puto is done.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

For the best rise and fluffiest texture, steam the batter immediately after mixing since the baking powder starts working once combined with the wet ingredients.

Can I make mini puto?

Yes. Simply reduce the steaming time to about 8–10 minutes, depending on the mold size.

Special Pandan Cheese Puto Recipe Video

For more recipe videos, visit our YouTube channel, Onyok Kokok, by clicking the link below.

https://www.youtube.com/@onyokkokok8538

Discover more step-by-step written recipes by clicking the link below.

Filipino Recipes & Cooking – Welcome to onyokrecipes.com

Final Note

Special Pandan Cheese Puto is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. The combination of soft, fluffy steamed cake, fragrant pandan, rich buttery flavor, and melted cheddar cheese makes this recipe a guaranteed family favorite. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, merienda, celebrations, or even selling it as part of a home business, this easy recipe is sure to impress.

For the best results, always use fresh baking powder, avoid overmixing the batter, and steam only after the water reaches a full boil. Serve warm while the cheese is soft and gooey, and enjoy every bite of this comforting Filipino classic.