Craving something cold and uniquely Filipino? This Ube Milkshake is rich, velvety, and bursting with the sweet, nutty flavor of ube, a purple yam that gives it that signature purple color and ultra-smooth texture!
Filipinos are fond of delicious drinks like Sago Gulaman and Papaya Banana Smoothies, which are perfect for the warm season.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This ube milkshake recipe is one of the easiest ways to enjoy yummy purple ube at home. You can even turn it into a creamy ube shake by adding extra coconut milk or using ube ice cream instead of vanilla.
You can make it dairy-free using vegan ice cream and creamy coconut milk. For a fun twist, mix in crushed Oreos, drizzle with chocolate, or sprinkle with nuts for texture.
Ube is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. It’s made from sweet potatoes and gives you a flavor boost without ruining your calorie diet.
The Story Behind Ube Milkshake
Ube milkshakes are a modern twist on a beloved Filipino dessert ingredient—ube halaya. Ube's sweet, earthy flavor pairs perfectly with ice cream and milk, creating a vibrant treat that’s both traditional and trendy.
This shake blends Filipino roots with a Western-style milkshake. It’s a great example of how classic flavors evolve into fun new forms.
Where Ube Milkshake Comes From
Ube, or purple yam, comes from the Philippines and has been used in desserts for generations. The ube milkshake likely became popular through Filipino-American food trends and dessert shops.
Blending ube halaya with vanilla ice cream and milk began appearing in cafes and food trucks. Some even boil fresh ube to make it. From there, it became a favorite in home kitchens worldwide.
When is this Dish Typically Enjoyed?
Ube milkshakes are popular all year round, especially in summer. You’ll see them at Filipino fiestas, birthdays, or as a fun merienda (afternoon snack). They’re a favorite during hot days and weekend treat moments.
Ingredients
Listed below are all the ingredients you will need:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Evaporated milk
- Ube halaya
- Cookie crumble
- Mint leaves (optional)
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
1. In a blender, combine vanilla ice cream, evaporated milk, and ube halaya.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Divide the mixture evenly into 3 serving glasses.
3. Top with cookie crumble sprinkles, or consider caramel syrup or whipped cream.
4. Then garnish with mint leaves. Serve and enjoy!
Substitutions & Variations
- Ingredient Swap
Swap vanilla ice cream for coconut or soy-based ice cream to make it vegan.
Don’t have evaporated milk? Use almond, oat, or any plant milk. - Variation
Add crushed graham or toasted coconut instead of cookie crumbles. - Mistake to Avoid
Avoid using frozen ube halaya straight from the freezer. It won’t blend well. - Storage Tips
- This drink doesn’t freeze well for later. But you can chill it in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- Stir before serving.
FAQs
Ube Milkshake
Ingredients
- 3 cups Vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup Evaporated milk
- 2 cups Ube halaya
- 2 tablespoons Cookie crumble
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Blend the Milkshake:
- In a blender, combine vanilla ice cream, evaporated milk, and ube halaya.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
Serve:
- Divide the mixture evenly into 3 serving glasses.
- Top with cookie crumble and garnish with mint leaves, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Watch The Recipe Video!
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Recipes for Every Moment
It’s scorching hot outside, and you need to cool down ASAP? Our Ube Milkshake is a frosty, vibrant treat that hits the spot fast!
Joy says
Lainey, this tasted amazing! I had all the ingredients at home and loved the flavor, thank you!🫶🫶🫶
Lainey says
Aww, I’m so happy to hear that! I love when recipes come together easily with what you already have—so glad you enjoyed it!
Maisaci says
Anything ube-flavored, whether food or drink, is a must-try! This is 🤤
Lainey says
Right?! Ube just makes everything better! So glad you love it too!
Cheng says
It looks delicious and so easy to make. I hope I can try this soon! 🙂
Lainey says
Thank you! You’ll love how simple and tasty it is—can’t wait for you to try it!
Sweet says
Eeeeep! This looks so yummy!
Lainey says
Aww, thank you! It really is as yummy as it looks—definitely a must-try!
Sheeeenyy says
This recipe looks so creamy and dreamy! 💜 Perfect balance of sweet, earthy, and refreshing—can’t wait to try it!
Lainey says
Aww, thank you so much! You’re going to love it—it’s like a sweet, creamy hug in a glass!
Anika says
Thank you for this recipe!!!
Simply Bakings Kitchen Team says
You’re so welcome! I’m really glad you tried it! Did you enjoy how it turned out?
Julius says
I think this is easy to make. Right? ☺😋
Kian Cablinda says
Pleasing to the eyes, and I'm sure to the taste as well!
Dimple says
Oh wow! This is an interesting one. Surely worth considering!