Creamy Purple Yam Ice Cream

The first time I saw ube ice cream at a Filipino market, I honestly thought someone had dyed vanilla that impossibly bright purple. Then I tasted it and realized this earthy, slightly nutty, coconut-like flavor was something entirely its own. Now I keep a stash of ube halaya in my pantry just for when the craving hits at midnight.

I made this for a dinner party last summer and watched my friends hesitantly try their first scoop, then immediately demand the recipe. The way the creamy base balances ube's natural sweetness is absolute magic.

Ingredients

• Ube halaya: This purple yam jam is the heart of the recipe, find it at Asian markets or make it yourself
• Ube extract: Intensifies both that gorgeous color and the distinctive flavor
• Heavy cream: Must be cold to whip properly, this creates that silky ice cream texture
• Whole milk: Lightens the base while keeping it rich
• Sweetened condensed milk: Sweetens and adds to the creaminess without needing a custard step
• Kosher salt: Cuts the sweetness and makes all the flavors pop
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the earthy ube notes

Instructions

Blend the base:

Combine the ube halaya, ube extract, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, salt, and vanilla in a blender. Whirl until completely smooth with no lumps remaining.

Whip the cream:

In a chilled bowl, beat the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. The cream should hold its shape when you lift the beaters.

Combine carefully:

Gently fold the ube mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. Mix just until the color is uniform and no white streaks remain.

Freeze thoroughly:

Pour into a freezer container, smooth the top, and freeze for at least 6 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.

Save

My aunt walked into my kitchen while I was folding the mixture together and asked why I was being so gentle. She later admitted she thought I was being dramatic until she tasted how perfectly smooth it turned out.

Getting The Color Right

I once made a batch that came out more lavender than that shocking purple everyone expects from ube. Adding more extract a drop at a time while blending fixed it instantly.

Texture Secrets

The trickiest part is waiting the full freezing time. I have definitely checked after 4 hours, found it still soft, and then ended up eating soft serve straight from the container.

Serving Ideas

Toast some coconut flakes until golden and sprinkle on top for crunch. Sweetened coconut strings called macapuno are traditional if you can find them. A dollop of extra ube halaya never hurt anyone.

• Serve in a hollowed out coconut half for presentation
• Waffle cones complement the creamy texture beautifully
• Keep your ice cream scoop warm in hot water for perfect rounds

Save

There is something joyful about opening the freezer and seeing that vivid purple waiting there. It never fails to make me smile.

Recipe Q&A

→ What does ube ice cream taste like?

Ube offers a uniquely sweet, nutty flavor with subtle vanilla notes. The purple yam creates a naturally creamy texture that's distinct from regular vanilla or chocolate ice cream, offering an earthy sweetness that's both comforting and exotic.

→ Do I need an ice cream maker?

No ice cream maker required! The whipped cream method creates the perfect creamy texture without any special equipment. Simply whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, fold in the ube mixture, and freeze for silky smooth results.

→ Where can I find ube ingredients?

Asian markets and Filipino grocery stores typically carry ube halaya (purple yam jam) and ube extract. Some well-stocked international supermarkets also stock these items in their Asian aisle. Online specialty retailers are another reliable source.

→ How long does homemade ube ice cream last?

Properly stored in an airtight container, this frozen treat maintains its quality for 2-3 weeks. For the best texture and flavor, consume within the first week. The creamy consistency may develop ice crystals over time.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

While this traditional version uses dairy products, you can substitute with full-fat coconut milk and coconut cream. The flavor profile changes slightly with coconut undertones, but the vibrant purple color and beauty remain stunning.

→ What toppings work well with ube ice cream?

Toasted coconut flakes add delightful crunch, while macapuno (sweet coconut strings) provides authentic Filipino flair. Extra dollops of ube halaya, crushed graham crackers, or a drizzle of condensed milk create beautiful presentation.