Mais Con Yelo (Filipino Sweet Corn Dessert with Ice)

An icy, sweet treat, Mais Con Yelo is a beloved Filipino dessert that’s simple to make with just a few pantry staples. It layers shaved or crushed ice with sweet corn, milk, crunchy cereal, and a scoop of ice cream for a refreshing contrast of textures and flavors.

Mais Con Yelo is a shaved-ice dessert made from corn, crushed ice, corn flakes, and sweetened or evaporated milk, typically finished with a scoop of ice cream.

Summer is the perfect season to try this cool, easy-to-assemble dessert—it’s fast, customizable, and ideal for beating the heat.

Follow the recipe below and feel free to experiment with your favorite ice cream or add-ins. Let us know how your version turns out!

Table of Contents

What is Mais Con Yelo?

Mais Con Yelo (also spelled maíz con hielo) is a Filipino shaved-ice dessert centered on sweet corn. The dish combines finely crushed or shaved ice with sweetened condensed or evaporated milk, sweet corn kernels, a crunchy element like corn flakes, and often a scoop of ice cream on top.

It is a simpler, corn-focused cousin of halo-halo, the classic Filipino mixed shaved-ice dessert, and is appreciated for its sweetness, creaminess, and contrasting textures.

Where is Mais Con Yelo from?

Mais Con Yelo originates in the Philippines; the name literally means “corn with ice.” You’ll find it sold as a popular street food or served in Filipino eateries. Its straightforward ingredients and quick assembly make it a staple summer refreshment in Filipino communities worldwide.

How to eat Mais Con Yelo

Pour evaporated milk or more condensed milk over the assembled dessert, then either mix everything together or enjoy it layered. Use a spoon to scoop the corn, flakes, and ice, and sip the melted milk for the full experience. Serve immediately so the ice stays cold and crisp.

Ingredients

• crushed or shaved ice
• corn flakes (or another crunchy cereal)
• sweetened condensed milk
• evaporated milk
• sweet corn (canned or cooked fresh)
• ice cream — vanilla, keso, or mais keso
• shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• sweetened beans or other halo-halo add-ins (optional)

For lighter versions, choose reduced-fat or low-sugar dairy alternatives. Non-dairy ice cream and plant-based milk work well if you prefer lactose-free options.

Recipe

1. Drizzle some sweetened condensed milk down the sides of a clear dessert cup for sweetness and visual appeal.
2. Layer in cooked or canned sweet corn, a handful of corn flakes, and a generous portion of crushed or shaved ice. Repeat layers as desired.
3. Top the cup with a scoop of ice cream (vanilla, keso, or corn-cheese flavor are traditional favorites).
4. Serve with evaporated milk poured over the top or on the side so diners can adjust sweetness and creaminess to taste.

Tips on Making Mais Con Yelo

• Prepare ice last: Crush or shave the ice only after all other ingredients are ready to avoid melting. An ice shaver gives the best texture; a high-powered blender can also work for finely crushed ice.
• Adjust sweetness: Use low-sugar condensed milk or evaporated milk for a lighter dessert. If you reduce sweetness, balance it with a sweeter cereal like frosted flakes or a spoonful of creamed corn for extra creaminess.
• Customize freely: Add sweetened beans, nata de coco, or fruit if you like more variety. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar is traditional for a sweet-savory contrast.

Final Thoughts

Mais Con Yelo is an easy, refreshing dessert that highlights the sweetness of corn against icy, creamy layers. It’s quick to assemble, highly customizable, and perfect for hot days when you want something cool and satisfying.

If you try this recipe, please rate it and share your version on social media—tag your photos to show how you enjoyed your Mais Con Yelo.

More Recipes You’ll Love

References & Further Reading

Wikipedia: Maíz con hielo

En-academic: Maíz con hielo