Name: Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins: A Taste of Filipino Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can swap with a gluten-free blend); 1 cup white sugar (Brown sugar can be used); 2 teaspoons baking powder (Ensure it’s fresh); 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cup oil (canola, avocado, or vegetable) (Melted coconut oil is a substitute); 1 large egg; 0.5 cup milk (Any kind of milk works); 0.5 cup ube halaya (Store-bought or homemade); 1 teaspoon ube extract (Vanilla extract can substitute); 0.25 cup flour; 0.25 cup sugar (Adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons butter (Melted butter works best); 0.5 cup coconut flakes (Chopped nuts can substitute)

As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant purple hue of ube caught my eye, reminding me of warm family gatherings filled with laughter and delightful Filipino treats. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins, a delicious way to embrace the sweet, earthy flavors of purple yam. These muffins are not only a feast for the eyes, but they’re also quick to prepare—perfect for those busy mornings or when you crave something special. With every bite, you’ll experience a tender crumb that’s moist and light, making them an ideal choice for breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack. So, are you ready to fill your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked muffins? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Ube Muffins So Special?

Moisture and Fluffiness: These ube muffins offer a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, making each bite an indulgent experience.
Colorful Appeal: The stunning purple hue adds a vibrant touch to your breakfast table, impressing family and friends alike.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these muffins fit any occasion beautifully.
Cultural Flair: Enjoy a taste of Filipino heritage with this delightful treat that’s loved across generations.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these muffins becomes a joyful activity for everyone.
For more delightful baking adventures, consider trying my Baked French Cruller or the light and airy White Cake as perfect complements to your culinary journey!

Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffin Ingredients

For the Muffins

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to muffins; swap with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
White Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to a light texture; brown sugar can be used for a more robust flavor.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a perfect rise; make sure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors beautifully.
Oil (Canola, Avocado, or Vegetable) – Adds moisture and richness; melted coconut oil is a tasty alternative.
Egg – Binds all ingredients together and contributes to a tender structure.
Milk – Infuses moisture; any kind of milk works well (whole, 1%, 2%).
Ube Halaya – Imparts a rich ube flavor and gorgeous purple hue; suitable store-bought or homemade.
Ube Extract – Intensifies the ube flavor; vanilla extract can substitute in a pinch.

For the Optional Crumb Topping

Flour – Provides texture to the topping, creating a delightful crunch.
Sugar – Sweetens the topping; adjust according to your taste preference.
Butter – Adds richness and helps bind the topping together; melted butter works best.
Coconut Flakes – Adds tropical flavor and texture; substitute with chopped nuts for a different crunch.

These Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins are sure to brighten your kitchen and your day! Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, take an 8-cup muffin pan and line it with paper liners to ensure easy removal later. Ensure the liners are snug as they will help maintain the shape of your Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins during baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial as it evenly combines the leavening agent and helps to aerate the flour, ensuring your muffins rise beautifully. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of white sugar and 1 large egg, then beat with a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add ½ cup of milk, ½ cup of oil, and 1 teaspoon of ube extract, mixing until fully combined. This will create a smooth base for your moist muffins.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Incorporate the flour mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing to maintain the softness and fluffiness characteristic of Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins. You may notice some lumps, but that’s perfectly fine.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups
Spoon about ¼ cup of the batter into each muffin cup, filling them halfway. Next, add approximately 1 tablespoon of ube halaya into the center of each cup and then top with the remaining batter until each cup is about two-thirds full. This layering will create delightful ube pockets in your muffins.

Step 6: Add Topping (Optional)
If you choose to enhance your muffins with a crumb topping, prepare it now. In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of flour, ¼ cup of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture over the muffins before baking for an extra layer of texture and sweetness.

Step 7: Bake
Carefully place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The muffins should rise and turn a lovely golden-brown. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center of one muffin; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow your Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period helps them set while maintaining their soft texture. Enjoy your beautifully baked muffins warm or at room temperature!

Make Ahead Options

These Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins are perfect for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to enjoy homemade treats with ease! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can mix the wet ingredients (sugar, egg, milk, oil, and ube extract) and refrigerate the mixture overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients, fill your muffin cups, add ube halaya, and proceed to bake as directed. This strategy not only saves you time but ensures your muffins remain just as delicious, with a light and fluffy texture every time!

Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins Variations

Feel free to get creative with these ube muffins and make them your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with any plant-based milk, such as almond or soy, for a dairy-free version.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of traditional flour to cater to gluten sensitivities.
Sweetener Swap: Replace white sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a more natural sweetness and unique flavor.
Flavor Enhancement: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor that complements the ube beautifully.
Texture Twist: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the fluffy muffin base.
Mini Muffins: Adjust baking time down to about 12-15 minutes for mini muffins that are perfect bite-sized treats for kids and adults alike.
Ube Halaya Boost: Incorporate extra ube halaya into the batter to intensify the ube flavor and create a richer, more colorful muffin.
Chocolate Indulgence: Fold in some chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a wonderful chocolate-ube fusion that’s irresistible.

By exploring these fun variations, your Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins can become a canvas for your own baking creativity! For more delightful treats, delight in the soft texture of my White Cake or embrace the flaky richness of Baked French Cruller as part of your sweet repertoire. Happy baking!

Helpful Tricks for Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins

Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the batter until just combined to keep your muffins soft and fluffy. Overmixing leads to a dense texture.
Check Freshness: Ensure your baking powder is fresh; expired powder won’t provide the proper rise, affecting your Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins.
Cooling Matters: Let the muffins cool completely before storing them to maintain their moisture and prevent sogginess.
Use Parchment Liners: For easy removal and cleanup, consider using parchment paper liners, though standard liners will work too.
Taste Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavors by incorporating chocolate chips or chopped nuts to discover your perfect twist on these ube muffins!

What to Serve with Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of these delightful muffins by creating a complete meal or snack experience.

Coffee: The rich, aromatic notes of coffee enhance the sweet flavors of the ube muffins, providing the perfect morning boost.
Filipino Hot Chocolate: Enjoy this creamy, rich drink alongside your muffins for a cozy touch that mirrors the warmth of family gatherings.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Light, refreshing fruits add a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the muffins and adding a pop of color to your plate. Consider including ripe mangoes and juicy strawberries.
Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt topped with honey and nuts offers a satisfying protein boost, making for a wholesome breakfast or snack combo.
Coconut Ice Cream: Elevate dessert time with a scoop of coconut ice cream, whose tropical flavor harmonizes beautifully with the ube’s earthiness.
Chai Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte complement the subtle flavor of the muffins, creating a harmonious blend of comforting tastes.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate adds decadence; the pairing of ube and chocolate creates an unforgettable flavor harmony.
Tropical Smoothie: Whip up a smoothie with banana, pineapple, and coconut for a refreshing drink that echoes the Filipino essence of your muffins.

How to Store and Freeze Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins

Room Temperature: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and moist.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. They maintain their flavor and texture incredibly well when frozen.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen muffins overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours before serving to restore their softness.

Reheating: If you prefer warm muffins, reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ube?
Absolutely! When choosing ube (purple yam), look for firm roots that are free from dark spots or blemishes. It’s best to avoid any that feel soft or have started to sprout, as this can indicate age. If you’re using ube halaya, check that it’s vibrant in color and free from any excess liquid or separation.

How should I store my ube muffins?
It’s very easy! Store your Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re fully cooled before sealing them to prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze ube muffins?
Absolutely! To freeze your Moist & Fluffy Ube Muffins, make sure they’re completely cooled. Then, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

What if my muffins turn out dense?
No worries! Dense muffins can often be a result of overmixing the batter. When combining the dry and wet ingredients, gently fold them until just blended. If you’ve packed the flour too tightly or used expired baking powder, these can also impact the texture. Always ensure freshness in your leavening agents for the best results.

Are there any dietary considerations with these muffins?
Very good question! If you’re considering allergies, these muffins contain eggs and dairy from milk. For a vegan alternative, substitute the egg with a flaxseed replacement (1 tablespoon of ground flax mixed with 3 tablespoons of water), and use a plant-based milk. Additionally, ensure the ube extract is alcohol-free if you’re avoiding this ingredient.

What can I do with leftover ube halaya?
If you have extra ube halaya, consider mixing it into pancakes or using it as a spread on toast for a deliciously sweet treat! You can also stir it into yogurt or have it as a delightful filling in other baked goods. The more ube, the merrier!