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In the bustling world of desserts, the vibrant purple hue of ube is stealing the show, making this sweet potato a must-try for any home chef. This quick-to-prepare Ube Milkshake is a delightful escape into Filipino cuisine, combining just four simple ingredients to create a luscious dessert drink. With its creamy texture and nutty flavor, it transforms everyday moments—like unwinding after a long day or sharing laughs over a game night—into something special. Not only is it a breeze to whip up in under five minutes, but this milkshake also doubles as a fun treat that will impress your guests. Curious about how this colorful concoction can elevate your summer gatherings? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Ube Milkshake so irresistible?
Simplicity at its core, this Ube Milkshake requires just four ingredients, making it perfect for busy home cooks. Delightful flavor shines through with the nutty sweetness of ube halaya, transporting your taste buds to the Philippines with every sip. Crowd-pleaser vibes guarantee that it will be a hit at family gatherings or casual get-togethers. Visual appeal comes in a stunning deep purple hue, making it not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes. And let’s not forget, it’s quick to prepare, ready in just five minutes—ideal for those last-minute dessert cravings! You can explore more mouthwatering recipes in our collection of easy desserts that add a touch of joy to any occasion.
Ube Milkshake Ingredients
For the Milkshake
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- Vanilla Ice Cream – Provides creaminess and sweetness; choose your favorite brand for the best flavor.
- Milk – Adds smoothness and helps blend the ingredients; feel free to use any type, whether dairy or non-dairy.
- Ube Halaya (Ube Jam) – Essential for authentic ube flavor and sweetness; look for it at Asian supermarkets for best results.
- Ube Extract (Optional) – Enhances purple color and offers a more pronounced ube flavor; can be omitted if unavailable.
For Serving (Optional)
- Whipped Cream – Adds a rich, decorative touch to the milkshake, making it even more indulgent.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Milkshake
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by collecting all the necessary ingredients for your Ube Milkshake: vanilla ice cream, milk, ube halaya, and optional ube extract. Measure out the ice cream and milk according to your desired thickness. Having everything ready and within reach will streamline your process and keep the kitchen organized as you create this delightful dessert drink.
Step 2: Combine in the Blender
In a high-speed blender, add the measured vanilla ice cream, milk, and ube halaya. If you want to boost the ube’s vibrant color and flavor, include the ube extract now. Make sure to have a sturdy lid on the blender to avoid any spills, and prepare for some blending magic as we blend these simple ingredients into a luscious mixture.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Blend the ingredients on high speed for about 20 seconds, watching for the mixture to turn creamy and smooth. You’ll know it’s ready when the vibrant purple color is uniform and there are no visible chunks. If needed, pause and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure everything is well incorporated for that heavenly Ube Milkshake texture.
Step 4: Prepare Your Serving Cup
While the milkshake is blending, grab your serving cup and chill it in the freezer for about 10 minutes if you desire an extra frosty treat. The cold cup not only enhances the drinking experience but also helps keep your Ube Milkshake nice and chilled for longer. Once your cup is ready, you’re just about set to pour!
Step 5: Pour and Serve
Once the blending is complete, carefully pour the Ube Milkshake into your chilled serving cup. Watch as the deep purple color fills the glass, making it visually inviting. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider topping your milkshake with a swirl of whipped cream, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Step 6: Enjoy Immediately
Your creamy Ube Milkshake is now ready to be savored! Gather your friends or family and share this delightful treat right away. The combination of flavors and textures will surely make it a memorable experience. Take a moment to appreciate the rich color and creamy goodness before diving in—this quick dessert drink is perfect for any occasion!

Storage Tips for Ube Milkshake
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Simply give it a quick stir before enjoying again.
Freezer: If you want to save your Ube Milkshake for later, pour it into an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours before blending again for a creamy texture.
Reheating: While this milkshake is best enjoyed fresh, if you must re-thaw, do so slowly in the fridge rather than in the microwave to avoid compromising the texture.
Serving Suggestion: Consider topping with whipped cream right before serving for a delightful finishing touch, enhancing both flavor and presentation!
Make Ahead Options
These Ube Milkshakes are a fantastic option for meal prep, making your dessert planning a breeze! To prepare ahead, you can measure out the vanilla ice cream and ube halaya up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The milk can also be pre-portioned and stored in the fridge for that timeframe. Assemble all ingredients in the blender just before you’re ready to serve, blending until smooth. This way, you maintain the milkshake’s creamy texture and vibrant purple color, ensuring that each sip is just as delicious as if you made it fresh. Enjoy saving time and delighting your guests with this delightful treat!
Expert Tips for Ube Milkshake
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Chill Your Cup: For an ultra-refreshing experience, chill your serving cup in the freezer for about 10 minutes before pouring. This keeps the Ube Milkshake colder longer!
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Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality vanilla ice cream and fresh ube halaya for the best flavor. These ingredients are the stars of your milkshake, so don’t skimp!
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Avoid Over-Blending: Blend just until smooth; over-blending can create a runny texture. You want a thick and creamy Ube Milkshake that you can enjoy with a straw.
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Customization Options: Feel free to experiment! Add ingredients like crushed ice, coconut ice cream, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to elevate flavors and find your perfect twist.
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Pre-Made Ube Halaya: If you’re short on time, consider buying pre-made ube halaya from your local Asian supermarket. It simplifies the prep while still giving you that beloved ube taste.
What to Serve with Creamy Ube Milkshake?
Indulge in a delightful feast by pairing your vibrant ube milkshake with tasty options that enhance every sip.
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Filipino Spring Rolls: Crisp and savory, these bites offer a delicious contrast to the creamy sweetness of the milkshake. Perfect for balancing flavors as you enjoy your tropical treat.
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Pancit Canton: This stir-fried noodle dish brings hearty textures and a touch of umami to your meal, making it a satisfying foundation for your dessert drink. A classic Filipino companion that won’t disappoint!
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey, melted cheese pairs remarkably with the ube’s nuttiness, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It’s a comforting option that elevates the overall meal experience.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: Combining fresh mango, pineapple, and banana adds a refreshing element to your meal and a burst of color on the plate. The fruity goodness brings an invigorating contrast to the creamy milkshake.
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Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and salty snacks are a fabulous counterpart to your drink, providing a fun texture and flavor vibe. Perfect for casual gatherings while enjoying lively conversations!
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Coconut Macaroons: For a delightful dessert option, these chewy treats echo the tropical notes of the ube while bringing their own sweetness. Great for those moments when you want a little indulgence alongside your milkshake.
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Mango Float: If you’re looking for another cold dessert to enjoy, this layered icebox cake with creamy mango and graham is a winner. It complements your ube milkshake beautifully while keeping the tropical theme alive.
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Cold Brew Coffee: For those who enjoy a little caffeine kick, a glass of cold brew adds depth and richness to your dessert experience. Perfect for savoring during warm days or the evening.
Ube Milkshake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize your Ube Milkshake with these fun twists and substitutions!
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Tropical Twist: Add a scoop of coconut ice cream for a creamy, island-inspired flavor that complements the ube beautifully. Believe me, the combination will transport you to paradise with every sip!
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Refreshing Crunch: Mix in some crushed ice for an extra refreshing texture. This can transform your milkshake into a delightful slushy treat, perfect for those warmer days!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option without compromising on taste. This variation also opens up your milkshake to anyone with lactose intolerance!
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Nutty Flavor Boost: Toss in a teaspoon of almond extract to add a nutty punch that pairs perfectly with the sweet ube. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!
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Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Blend in a tablespoon of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey twist on the classic Ube Milkshake. The sweet potato flavor will surprise you—it’s a heavenly combo!
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to create a harmonious contrast with the sweetness. It’s a daring twist that adventurous palates will enjoy!
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Breakfast-Inspired: Turn this dessert into a breakfast treat by adding a scoop of rolled oats or even a banana for a creamy, smoothie-style shake. It’s like dessert for breakfast!
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Festive Garnish: Top your Ube Milkshake with colorful sprinkles or toasted coconut for a festive touch that makes it extra special for celebrations. It’s all about those little finishing touches!
Experimenting with these ideas can turn your Ube Milkshake into a new experience every time. Check out our other delightful easy dessert recipes to keep the sweetness flowing in your kitchen!

Ube Milkshake Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ube halaya?
Absolutely! When choosing ube halaya, look for a vibrant purple color, which indicates freshness. The texture should be smooth and creamy, without any hard lumps. If it has a long shelf life and the ingredients list is simple (mostly ube, sugar, and butter), that’s a great sign! Also, I recommend checking your local Asian supermarket for the best selection.
How can I store leftover Ube Milkshake?
Very! If you have any leftovers, store your Ube Milkshake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For maximum freshness, pour any extra milkshake into an airtight container and freeze it right away. It can last up to 1 month in the freezer. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours and give it a quick blend to restore that creamy texture before serving.
Can I freeze Ube Milkshake for later?
Of course! To freeze, pour the Ube Milkshake into an airtight container, making sure to leave some room for expansion. It will stay fresh for about 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, place it in the fridge overnight to thaw, then give it a good stir or blend it again to revitalize the creaminess before serving.
What should I do if my milkshake turns out too runny?
Absolutely, this can happen! If your milkshake is too runny, here’s a quick fix: add a bit more ice cream or frozen fruits to thicken it back up. Blend again until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can also chill your serving cup in the freezer before pouring the milkshake, which helps it stay frosty and thick.
Can I make this Ube Milkshake dairy-free?
Very! You can easily make a dairy-free version by substituting the vanilla ice cream with coconut or almond ice cream and using almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk. This way, you can enjoy the deliciousness of the Ube Milkshake while accommodating dietary preferences!

Deliciously Creamy Ube Milkshake for a Sweet Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all the necessary ingredients for your Ube Milkshake: vanilla ice cream, milk, ube halaya, and optional ube extract.
- In a high-speed blender, add the measured vanilla ice cream, milk, ube halaya, and ube extract if using.
- Blend the ingredients on high speed for about 20 seconds until creamy and smooth.
- While blending, chill your serving cup in the freezer for about 10 minutes.
- Carefully pour the Ube Milkshake into your chilled serving cup and top with whipped cream if desired.
- Enjoy your Ube Milkshake immediately for the best experience.







