As the cool breeze of the -ber months fills the air and the glow of the parols start to twinkle brighter than the streetlights, Filipinos know that Christmas is right around the corner. Among the most cherished traditions that mark the beginning of this festive season is Simbang Gabi.
Simbang Gabi (or Misa de Gallo) is a series of 9-day early morning masses dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is often practiced by Filipino Catholics in preparation for the birth of Jesus. This tradition has been introduced to the Philippines by the Spanish friars in the 16th century and has been deeply engraved into the Filipino culture to show values of appreciation, resilience, generosity, and togetherness.
Beyond its spiritual significance, this tradition has become deeply tied to another well-loved Filipino custom — enjoying warm, comforting kakanins (rice-based delicacies) after mass. For generations, these treats have brought families together offering both a taste of nostalgia and a feeling of community.
This holiday season, Astoria Christmas Gourmet Collection brings that heartwarming experience right to your table with our delectable lineup of Simbang Gabi and holiday favorites, crafted with love and made to capture the essence of the Filipino Christmas spirit.
A holiday classic: Astoria Bibingka
The bibingka is a well-known Filipino snack or dessert after Simbang Gabi. Stalls near a church open almost immediately after the mass just to offer churchgoers something to bring home as a snack or pasalubong. Its origin has varied tales, but one thing is for sure, bibingka has long been a traditional Filipino snack after Simbang Gabi.
Over time, bibingka has evolved into numerous forms and has already become integrated into an everyday favorite snack – one variation is the Astoria Bibingka. Certified as one of the Best Desserts by Philippine Daily Inquirer Lifestyle, this sweet treat has become a guest favorite and comes in three flavors (Traditional, Ube, and Dulce De Leche).
Small in size, big in flavor: Astoria Bibingcute
For those who love bite-sized delights, Astoria Bibingcute is a must-try. A smaller and cuter version of the signature Astoria Bibingka, this treat offers the same delicious flavor and texture in a more convenient size — perfect for sharing during office parties, family gatherings, or as gifts for loved ones. They are the ideal snack for those who can’t resist having “just one more” — because really, who could stop at one? These adorable treats prove that good things truly come in small packages.
A Christmas kakanin classic: Puto Bumbong
Another Simbang Gabi staple that never fails to delight is the iconic Puto Bumbong. Traditionally steamed in bamboo tubes, this violet-hued delicacy is known for its sticky texture and distinct flavor. The result is a heavenly combination of sweet and nutty goodness that instantly transports you to those early morning masses outside the church, where the scent of puto bumbong fills the crisp December air. It is also a beloved treat that feels like home in every bite.
Four treats in one: The Misa De Gallo Favorites
To make your holiday celebrations even more special, Astoria Christmas Gourmet Collection has made a Misa De Gallo Favorites set — the perfect gift or handa for yourself or your loved ones. This festive set includes three flavors of Astoria Bibingka and a serving of Puto Bumbong, offering a delightful variety that highlights the best of Filipino Christmas flavors.
A sweet addition to your holiday dessert spread: Ube Espasol
Rounding out the collection of traditional kakanins is the irresistible espasol — a soft, chewy rice flour treat dusted with roasted rice powder. While not always front and center during Simbang Gabi, espasol deserves a spot in your holiday spread for its unique flavor and nostalgic charm. Making this kakanin special is its ube twist as our dessert uses the Astoria-ACES’ Philippine Ube Powder as one of its ingredients.
This holiday season, relive the cherished flavors of Simbang Gabi without the hassle of cooking or waiting in long lines after mass. Astoria Christmas Gourmet Collection makes it easy to share the warmth and joy of Filipino Christmas traditions with your family and friends through thoughtfully prepared kakanins.
Whether you are enjoying them after attending dawn mass, gifting them to loved ones, or serving them during your holiday gatherings, these treats are sure to make your celebrations more memorable. So, be sure to order your Simbang Gabi favorites at bit.ly/AstoriaGourmetTakeaways. Order food online now!
Whether holiday favorites or gourmet dishes, members of the leading vacation club in the Philippines, Astoria Vacation and Leisure Club, Inc. (AVLCI) can take advantage of amazing discounts as part of their membership perks. Plus, members also get to use their timeshare credits for memorable stays and get lower rates on venues for momentous events. Be wary of vacation club scams and only trust the best at www.avlci.com.
