When the vibrant purple hue of ube first caught my eye at the local market, I knew I had to do something special with it. The moment I took a bite of these Ube Bars, I was enveloped in a delightful wave of nutty sweetness, reminiscent of childhood treats but with an exciting twist. Whether you’re tired of the usual desserts or simply looking for a way to impress at your next gathering, these bars elevate homemade treats to a new level.
Not only are they an eye-catching addition to any dessert spread, but they also come together effortlessly—perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The blend of ube and rich flavors creates an indulgent yet comforting experience, making every bite a little celebration. So, let’s dive into this vibrant recipe and discover how easy it is to bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen, without the fast-food fuss. Your taste buds are in for a sweet surprise!
Why will you crave Ube Bars?
Irresistible Flavor: The unique, nutty sweetness of ube offers a flavor profile unlike any other dessert.
Effortless Preparation: You don’t need to be a master baker—this recipe is simple enough for anyone to tackle.
Vibrant Presentation: Their stunning purple color brightens up any dessert table, making them a showstopper at gatherings.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, these bars satisfy a variety of cravings.
Family Favorite: Just one bite will have everyone coming back for seconds—there’s a reason they’re a crowd pleaser!
Looking for more delicious inspiration? Check out my chocolate chip cookie recipe for another classic favorite.
Ube Bars Ingredients
• Get ready to create something special!
For the Base
- 1 1/2 cups ube puree – This rich, vibrant ingredient brings the signature flavor of ube bars that will delight your taste buds.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Use this for the structure and texture of your delicious bars.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – This will help your bars rise and achieve that perfectly soft texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – A small amount that enhances the flavors, making your bars even more irresistible.
For the Sweetness
- 1 cup granulated sugar – This sweetens your bars and balances the nutty taste of the ube.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – It adds richness and helps create a delectable, fudgy consistency.
- 2 large eggs – These act as a binding agent for the ingredients, ensuring a perfect hold.
For the Toppings
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional) – This adds a delightful texture and enhances the tropical flavor of your ube bars.
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional) – For a touch of creaminess and additional sweetness that pairs wonderfully with ube.
Gather these ingredients and get ready to make the most delectable Ube Bars that your friends and family will love!
How to Make Ube Bars
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Ube Bars bake evenly and develop a lovely golden edge while remaining soft and fudgy inside.
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Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper. This will help your bars come out smoothly and prevent any sticking, so they maintain their beautiful shape.
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Mix the ube puree, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Stir until well combined and fluffy, as this will give your bars that luscious texture we all crave.
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Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps incorporate air into the batter, making your Ube Bars tender and moist.
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Combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix for the best texture.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. If you’re adding the optional ingredients, sprinkle the shredded coconut and white chocolate chips on top for that extra touch of indulgence.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they bake, the edges should be lightly golden and the middle should have a slight jiggle.
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Cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This will allow the flavors to deepen and make cutting the bars much easier.
Optional: Drizzle with melted white chocolate for an elegant finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ube Bars are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to streamline dessert prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients together and storing the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into a greased pan and bake as instructed. To maintain the bars’ delightful texture, avoid adding any toppings until after baking. Enjoy the convenience of having these delectable treats ready for your next gathering or a cozy night in!
How to Store and Freeze Ube Bars
Room Temperature: Keep your Ube Bars stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their moist texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the Ube Bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer, preserving that delightful flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw your Ube Bars overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a just-baked experience!
Helpful Tricks for Ube Bars
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Perfect Ube Purée: Ensure your ube purée is smooth and free of lumps for even texture. Lumpy purée can result in unevenly baked bars.
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Monitor Baking Time: Check for doneness a few minutes early. Oven temperatures can vary, and overbaking can lead to dry Ube Bars.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the bars dense rather than fluffy.
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Cool Before Cutting: Allow the Ube Bars to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set and results in cleaner cuts for a neater presentation.
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Experiment with Toppings: Don’t shy away from mixing in your favorite toppings like nuts or other chocolates. Just ensure they balance the nutty sweetness of the ube.
What to Serve with Ube Bars?
Indulge in a delightful array of pairings that complement the lush flavors of your Ube Bars.
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Whipped Cream: A light dollop adds a fluffy texture that balances the rich sweetness of the bars. It’s like biting into a cloud!
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Coconut Ice Cream: Creamy coconut ice cream amplifies tropical flavors while providing a cool, refreshing contrast to the warm bars.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart blueberries offer a refreshing burst that cuts through the richness, creating a delicious harmony of flavors.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This effervescent drink brightens the palate, making each bite of the Ube Bars a celebratory delight.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of dark chocolate enhances the sweet and nutty profile, adding a touch of decadence with each bite.
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Coffee: A rich cup of coffee complements the bars beautifully, bringing out the nutty tones. It’s the perfect companion for a cozy afternoon treat.
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Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted cashews or almonds for a crunchy contrast that adds depth to the ube’s soft texture, creating an exciting bite.
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Mango Salsa: A vibrant mango salsa with cilantro makes for an unexpected and exciting tropical fusion that tantalizes your taste buds.
Let your Ube Bars shine in your dessert spread with these delightful pairings!
Ube Bars Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make these Ube Bars your own with these fun ideas!
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Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use coconut oil instead of butter.
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that beautifully complements the soft bars.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder to bring a rich, cocoa flavor to your ube bars—this twist creates a delicious contrast!
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Coconut Bliss: Use coconut cream instead of melted butter for an extra layer of tropical flavor, elevating the bars to a new height of indulgence.
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Fruit Infusion: Fold in 1/2 cup of diced mango or pineapple for a fruity burst that pairs wonderfully with the nuttiness of ube.
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Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to warm up the flavors, giving your bars a cozy twist that feels like home.
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Rainbow Topping: Top with colorful sprinkles for a fun, festive finish that makes these Ube Bars a delightful visual treat for any occasion.
Ube Bars Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when choosing ube puree?
Absolutely! When selecting ube puree, ensure it has a vibrant purple color without any dark spots or inconsistencies. A smooth texture is ideal, as lumps can make for uneven baking. If possible, opt for fresh ube that you can steam and blend yourself for the best flavor!
How should I store my Ube Bars?
For optimal freshness, store your Ube Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them a bit longer, refrigerate them in the same way for up to a week. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze Ube Bars, and how?
Yes, you absolutely can! To freeze your Ube Bars, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that freshly baked vibe!
I overbaked my Ube Bars! What can I do?
Very! If you notice your Ube Bars are a bit dry due to overbaking, consider cutting them into smaller portions and serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling them with a creamy sauce. This will rehydrate the bars slightly and enhance the flavor—an excellent way to salvage them!
Are Ube Bars suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This recipe can easily be adapted. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free alternative, replace the butter with coconut oil and make sure your ube puree is dairy-free as well. Always double-check labels to ensure there are no allergens for specific dietary needs!
Decadent Ube Bars That Will Delight Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
- Mix the ube puree, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a large bowl.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a separate bowl and fold into the wet ingredients.
- Pour the batter into the baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.