Delicious Filipino Ube Puto: Easy Steamed Treat You’ll Love

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s something about the first bite of a perfect Filipino Ube Puto that takes you on a joyful journey. The moment you pull the steamer lid away and reveal those vibrant purple cakes, the sweet scent of ube (purple yam) fills the air, inviting you to indulge. These soft, fluffy steamed rice cakes are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. Whether you re celebrating a special occasion or just want to add a touch of uniqueness to your breakfast table, this beginner-friendly recipe is your ticket to a mouthwatering experience. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you ll be amazed at how quickly you can create this beloved Filipino dessert. Plus, with a variety of topping options, you can easily customize each batch to suit your palate. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these beautiful, flavorful bites!

Why You ll Love Filipino Ube Puto

Delightful Colors: The stunning purple hue of ube will brighten up any table.

Super Simple: This recipe is perfect for beginners; you ll be a pro in no time!

Versatile Toppings: Customize your puto with shredded cheese or coconut for extra flavor and texture.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it s a festive celebration or a casual breakfast, these treats fit right in.

Crowd-Pleasing: With its unique flavor and charming appearance, your family and friends will be begging for seconds! Ready to explore more delicious variations? Check out our suggestions for different toppings to make each batch uniquely yours!

Filipino Ube Puto Ingredients

For the Batter

• Rice Flour Essential for achieving that soft, fluffy texture in your Filipino Ube Puto.
• All-Purpose Flour Provides structure and balances the gluten content for better rise.
• Sugar Adds sweetness; feel free to adjust or substitute with alternative sweeteners as per your taste.
• Baking Powder This leavening agent ensures your puto comes out light and fluffy.
• Salt Enhances the overall flavor, making every bite delicious.
• Ube Halaya (Purple Yam Jam) The signature ingredient that gives flavor and that vibrant purple hue; thawed frozen ube works if halaya isn t available.
• Coconut Milk Adds a creamy richness; can substitute with almond or soy milk for a different twist.
• Water Helps in adjusting the batter s consistency, focusing on that perfect pour.
• Large Egg Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a delightful texture.
• Vanilla Extract Optional, adds another layer of flavor to your delightful steamed treat.

For Optional Toppings

• Shredded Cheese A savory addition that balances out the sweetness beautifully.
• Grated Coconut Sprinkling this on top adds a tropical touch and texture.
• Salted Egg Adds an unexpected savory contrast, perfect for adventurous eaters!

How to Make Filipino Ube Puto

1. Prepare the Steamer: Begin by setting up your steamer with water over medium heat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel underneath the lid this will catch any condensation and prevent it from dripping onto your cakes.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them well until they re fully incorporated, ensuring a delightful and even texture in your puto.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the ube halaya, coconut milk, water, egg, and optional vanilla extract until smooth. The vibrant color will uplift your spirits even before you start cooking!

4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Remember, just mix until combined overmixing may lead to denser cakes. A gentle hand will keep your puto soft and fluffy.

5. Prepare Molds: Lightly grease your molds to prevent sticking and pour the batter in, filling each about ¾ full. Avoid filling them to the top since the batter will rise during steaming.

6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle your chosen toppings, such as shredded cheese or grated coconut, on each mound of batter. This step is all about personal preference and creativity.

7. Steam: Carefully cover the molds with a lid and steam for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when your ube puto is ready.

8. Cool: After steaming, let the puto sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before gently removing them from the molds. This will help them hold their shape while they cool.

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of melted butter or coconut cream for extra richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Filipino Ube Puto are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients (rice flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the wet mixture (ube halaya, coconut milk, water, egg, and vanilla) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, pour into molds, and add your favorite toppings before steaming. This prep work saves time and ensures you ll enjoy these delightful sweets just as delicious as when fresh!

Storage Tips for Filipino Ube Puto

Room Temperature: Keep freshly made ube puto at room temperature for up to 2 hours, covered with a clean cloth to prevent drying out.

Fridge: Store cooled ube puto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat by steaming or microwaving briefly for softness.

Freezer: Wrap individual ube puto tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating: For perfect results, steam or microwave the puto for a short time until warm. Enjoy their delightful fluffiness again!

What to Serve with Filipino Ube Puto?

Create a delightful feast by pairing your ube puto with these wonderful accompaniments that enhance its sweetness and flavor.

• Savory Cheese Pairing: Adding shredded cheese on top not only contrasts the sweetness beautifully but also adds a creamy texture that s utterly delicious.

• Coconut Flakes: Lightly toasted grated coconut brings a tropical flair and chewy texture that complements the soft cake, making every bite a mini vacation!

• Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of mango, pineapple, and papaya adds bursts of juicy freshness, balancing the rich flavors of ube puto perfectly.

• Café-style Brew: A cup of strong coffee or a refreshing iced tea will elevate your dessert experience, creating a classic contrast between flavors.

• Milky Sweet Drink: Coconut milk or a sweet milkshake serves as a delightful beverage, enhancing the ube essence with each sip.

• Condensed Milk Drizzle: A light drizzle of sweetened condensed milk adds richness and a touch of decadence, making your ube puto truly irresistible.

Experiment with these combinations to enchant your taste buds! Each pairing can transform your meal into a festive celebration that pays homage to Filipino culture and flavor.

Expert Tips for Filipino Ube Puto

• Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter to retain that fluffy texture, which is essential for perfect Filipino Ube Puto.

• Steam Smartly: Ensure you cover the steamer lid with a kitchen towel to catch condensation, preventing water from dripping onto your cakes.

• Small Molds Matter: Use small molds for even cooking and a delightful bite-sized treat that will impress everyone at the table.

• Check Doneness: Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean. This ensures your puto is light and fluffy.

• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Different ingredients like pandan essence or fruits can elevate the flavor profiles of your puto.

Filipino Ube Puto Variations

Ready to put your unique twist on this delightful treat? The world of flavors and textures awaits your creativity!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk with almond, oat, or rice milk for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
  Almond milk brings a nutty note that pairs beautifully with ube.

• Gluten-Free: If you want to ensure every bite is gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
  This swap keeps the fluffy texture while making it suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent surprise in every bite.
  Chocolate and ube create a delightful harmony that will have everyone asking for more!

• Fruit Fusion: Top your puto with fresh fruits like mango or berries for a refreshing twist.
  The tartness of berries will perfectly complement the sweetness of the puto.

• Ube Swirl: Add a generous swirl of extra ube halaya into the batter before steaming for an eye-catching design.
  This not only enhances the color but also gives an extra boost of ube flavor in every bite.

• Savory Options: Experiment by adding a bit of cheese or even diced green onions into the batter for a savory version.
  These savory notes can create a wonderful balance against the natural sweetness of the ube.

• Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, comforting flavor profile.
  These spices will give your puto a unique twist that makes it perfect for cozy gatherings.

• Chili Infusion: Feeling adventurous? Incorporate a small amount of chili powder for a subtle kick.
  The heat balances out the sweetness, making each bite exciting and full of surprises!

Filipino Ube Puto Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ube?
Absolutely! When choosing ube, look for firm, smooth, and vibrant purple-skinned yams. Avoid those with dark spots all over or soft patches, as they may be past their prime. The fresher the ube, the richer the flavor!

How should I store leftover ube puto?
To keep your delicious Filipino Ube Puto fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to allow them to cool completely before putting them away to maintain their delightful texture!

Can I freeze ube puto?
Yes, you can! I often freeze my ube puto for later enjoyment. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat by steaming or microwaving briefly.

Why is my ube puto dense instead of fluffy?
Very importantly, it s all about mixing and steaming! Ensure you don t overmix the batter; fold until just combined to preserve that fluffiness. Also, check your steaming technique ensure it s not too high in temperature and that you cover the steamer properly!

Are ube puto gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! Filipino Ube Puto is gluten-free primarily due to the use of rice flour. If you re accommodating individuals with gluten sensitivities, just double-check that the baking powder you use is certified gluten-free, ensuring a delightful treat for everyone.

What toppings can I use for ube puto if I don t like cheese?
The more, the merrier! If cheese isn t your thing, feel free to explore other topping options like grated coconut for a tropical feel, or salted egg for that savory contrast. You can also drizzle a bit of sweetened condensed milk or melt some butter over the top for a rich finish.