Description
This delectable Filipino-inspired dessert features the vibrant flavor of ube, or purple yam, blended into a moist and flavorful baked treat. With a rich combination of ube halaya, coconut milk, and optional toppings like shredded coconut or white chocolate chips, these bars offer a luscious and colorful twist on classic brownies. Perfect for ube enthusiasts and those wanting a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Ube Batter
- 1 cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ube extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a creamy base for the batter.
- Add Eggs and Ube Flavor: Beat in the eggs one at a time ensuring each is fully incorporated. Then mix in the ube halaya and ube extract until the mixture is smooth and evenly colored with the distinctive purple hue.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and season the batter.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, alternating with the coconut milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently after each addition until the batter is smooth and homogenous.
- Pour Batter and Add Toppings: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut or white chocolate chips evenly over the top to add extra texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked ube bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 squares. This helps the bars set and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- For a stronger ube flavor, increase the ube extract to 1 1/2 teaspoons.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer freshness, refrigerate the bars; they can last about a week chilled.
- Substitute coconut milk with regular milk if preferred, though it will slightly alter flavor.
