Ube Ice Cream

Ube Ice Cream is a delightful Filipino dessert known for its vibrant purple hue and unique flavor derived from ube, or purple yam. This creamy treat combines the earthy sweetness of ube with the richness of cream, resulting in a dessert that’s both visually striking and deliciously satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Vibrant and Unique Flavor: Ube offers a distinct taste that’s both nutty and sweet, setting it apart from traditional ice cream flavors.
• No-Churn Simplicity: This recipe doesn’t require an ice cream maker, making it accessible for home cooks.
• Cultural Delight: Experience a taste of Filipino cuisine with this traditional dessert.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, in a cone, or as a topping for other Filipino desserts like halo-halo.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
• ¼ teaspoon ube flavoring (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Ube Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ube halaya and sweetened condensed milk. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
2. Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the ube mixture in batches, ensuring a smooth and uniform consistency.
4. Add Flavoring: If using, stir in the ube flavoring to enhance the color and taste.
5. Freeze: Transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe container, cover, and freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Freeze Time: 6 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Coconut Ube Ice Cream: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version with a tropical twist.
• Ube-Macapuno Ice Cream: Add macapuno (sweetened coconut strings) for added texture and flavor.
• Ube Cheesecake Ice Cream: Incorporate cream cheese into the mixture for a tangy cheesecake flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
• Serving: Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping to achieve the desired consistency.

FAQs

What is ube?

Ube is a purple yam native to the Philippines, known for its vibrant color and sweet, nutty flavor. It’s commonly used in Filipino desserts.

Can I use fresh ube instead of ube halaya?

Yes, you can cook and mash fresh ube to use in place of ube halaya. Ensure it’s sweetened to match the flavor profile.

Is an ice cream maker necessary for this recipe?

No, this is a no-churn recipe, so an ice cream maker is not required.

Where can I find ube halaya?

Ube halaya can be found in Asian supermarkets or online specialty stores.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative.

How long does the ice cream last in the freezer?

For optimal taste and texture, consume the ice cream within 2 weeks of freezing.

Can I add mix-ins to the ice cream?

Absolutely. Consider adding ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

What does ube ice cream taste like?

Ube ice cream has a sweet, nutty flavor with hints of vanilla, making it distinct from other ice cream flavors.

Why is my ice cream icy?

Ensure the whipped cream reaches stiff peaks and is folded gently into the ube mixture to maintain a creamy texture.

Can I use ube extract alone without ube halaya?

While ube extract provides color and some flavor, using ube halaya adds depth and authenticity to the ice cream.

Conclusion

Ube Ice Cream offers a delightful combination of vibrant color and unique flavor, making it a standout dessert. Its no-churn preparation makes it accessible for home cooks, allowing you to bring a taste of the Philippines into your kitchen with ease. Enjoy this creamy treat on its own or as a complement to other desserts.

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