Ube brownies are a delightful twist on the classic brownie, incorporating the unique flavor and vibrant color of ube, or purple yam. These brownies are not only visually stunning but also packed with a rich, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor that sets them apart from traditional chocolate brownies. Perfect for any occasion, these ube brownies are sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 17 ounces ube jam (about 2 cups), room temperature
- 2 tablespoons ube extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Add the egg and mix until smooth. Stir in the ube jam and ube extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips: Gently fold in the white chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The edges should be set, but the center should still be slightly gooey.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy!
FAQs
1. What is ube? Ube, also known as purple yam, is a root vegetable commonly used in Filipino desserts. It has a unique flavor that is mildly sweet and nutty, and it gives dishes a beautiful purple color.
2. Can I use fresh ube instead of ube jam? Yes, you can use fresh ube, but it requires more preparation. You need to cook and mash the ube until smooth before incorporating it into the recipe. Ube jam is more convenient and readily available in Asian grocery stores.
3. Where can I find ube extract? Ube extract can be found in Asian grocery stores or online. It enhances the flavor and color of the brownies, making them more vibrant and delicious.
4. Can I substitute the white chocolate chips with another type of chocolate? Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even omit the chocolate chips if you prefer. White chocolate complements the ube flavor well, but feel free to experiment with your favorite type of chocolate.
5. How should I store ube brownies? Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
6. Can I make these brownies gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that is suitable for baking to achieve the best texture.
Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful ube brownies! If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Happy baking!