A sweet taste of tradition

Perene Cakes and Pastries celebrates the holiday season with two new limited-edition desserts inspired by Filipino favorites

- JANE KINGSU-CHENG

For over a decade, Perene Cakes and Pastries has been quietly but consistently baking its way into family celebrations. Known for its indulgent yet thoughtful creations, the brand formerly Café Perene, is recognized for its cakes that not only taste good but feel like home.

Classic with a twist

This holiday season, this café introduces two new limited-edition creations that perfectly capture the spirit of Filipino celebrations.

At the heart of these new releases is the team's dedication to elevating cakes while honoring familiar flavors. The Ube Halaya Burnt Cheesecake is a beautiful marriage of texture and flavor-smooth on the palate, balanced in sweetness, and made with real ube halaya. "The flavor and creaminess are perfectly balanced. You don't know where one flavor starts and ends," describes founder and head caker Mary Jane Rebaldo.

The Bibingka Burnt Cheesecake, on the other hand, brings nostalgia with every bite. Baked in banana leaves and topped with cheese, salted egg, and a side of muscovado and fresh coconut shreds, it captures the comforting warmth of Christmas mornings. "It's as real as it can be, both visually and tastefully," adds Mary Jane.