The best ube halaya 💜

The best ube halaya 💜 is a medium Filipino recipe that serves 8. 70 calories per serving. Recipe by Iankewks on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 1 hr 10 min

Cost: $13.99 total, $1.75 per serving

Ingredients

  • 500 g Ube (Purple Yam) (fresh, peeled and grated)
  • 100 g Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes)
  • 240 ml Evaporated Milk (full‑fat)
  • 240 ml Coconut Milk (full‑fat, canned)
  • 300 g Sweetened Condensed Milk (for sweetness and thickness)
  • 1 tsp Ube Extract (adds deep purple color and flavor)

Instructions

  1. Grate the Ube

    Peel the fresh ube and grate it finely using a grater or food processor.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Combine Ingredients

    In a saucepan, combine the grated ube, butter, evaporated milk, and coconut milk. Stir to mix evenly.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Blend to Smooth

    Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth and uniform.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Add Sweetener and Flavor

    Return the blended mixture to the saucepan, add the sweetened condensed milk and ube extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.

    Time: PT35M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  5. Cool the Jam

    Remove the saucepan from heat and let the ube jam cool completely at room temperature.

    Time: PT15M

  6. Store

    Transfer the cooled jam into a clean jar, seal tightly, and refrigerate.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
70
Protein
0.5g
Carbohydrates
12g
Fat
2g
Fiber
1g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Allergens: Dairy (butter, milk), Coconut

Last updated: April 19, 2026

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The best ube halaya 💜

Recipe by Iankewks

A vibrant, sweet, and spreadable Filipino Ube Jam made from fresh grated purple yam, butter, evaporated milk, coconut milk, condensed milk, and ube extract. Perfect for spreading on bread, filling pastries, or topping desserts.

MediumFilipinoServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
35m
Prep
35m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 20m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$13.99
Total cost
$1.75
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Continuously stir the mixture for about 35 minutes to achieve proper thickness
  • Cool completely before storing to prevent condensation
  • Grate fresh ube for best texture and color

Safety Warnings

  • Hot pan and boiling mixture can cause burns
  • When blending hot liquids, allow mixture to cool slightly and vent the blender lid to avoid pressure buildup
  • Handle ube extract carefully as it is concentrated

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Ube Jam (Ube Halaya) in Filipino cuisine?

A

Ube Halaya is a beloved Filipino dessert that dates back to the Spanish colonial era, when purple yam was introduced to the Philippines. It became a staple sweet treat, often served during fiestas, holidays, and family gatherings, symbolizing abundance and celebration.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Ube Halaya in the Philippines?

A

In the Ilocos region, ube halaya is sometimes mixed with cassava for a denser texture, while in the Visayas, coconut cream is added for extra richness. Some provinces also incorporate cheese or salted egg yolk for a sweet‑savory twist.

cultural
Q

How is Ube Halaya traditionally served in the Philippines?

A

Traditionally, ube halaya is served chilled in small bowls as a dessert on its own, or as a topping for halo‑halo, leche flan, and buko pandan. It is also spread on toasted pandesal or used as a filling for pastries like ensaymada.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Ube Halaya associated with in Filipino culture?

A

Ube Halaya is a common feature at birthdays, Christmas, New Year’s, and town fiestas. It is also prepared for special occasions such as weddings and baptisms, where its vibrant purple color adds a festive touch.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are used in traditional Ube Halaya versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional ube halaya uses fresh grated ube, butter, coconut milk, evaporated milk, and condensed milk. Acceptable substitutes include sweet potatoes for color, margarine for butter, and a mixture of milk and sugar in place of condensed milk, though flavor and texture may differ.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Ube Jam at home?

A

Common mistakes include not stirring continuously, which can cause scorching; stopping the cooking too early, resulting in a runny jam; and using pre‑grated ube that may be dry and lose its vibrant color.

technical
Q

How do I know when the Ube Jam is done cooking and has reached the right thickness?

A

The jam is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clear trail when the spoon is drawn through. It should feel thick yet spreadable and will firm up further as it cools.

technical
Q

Can I make Ube Jam ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can make it a week ahead. Store the cooled jam in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze in portion‑size containers for up to two months. Bring to room temperature before spreading.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Iankewks specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Iankewks specializes in Filipino home cooking tutorials, focusing on traditional dishes, modern twists, and detailed step‑by‑step guidance for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Iankewks approach to Filipino cooking differ from other Filipino cooking channels?

A

Iankewks emphasizes clear visual demonstrations, precise timing, and practical tips like ingredient sourcing, while many other channels rely more on narrative storytelling. This channel often breaks down classic recipes into manageable steps for beginners.

channel

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