Ube Halaya Swirl Brownies

Ube Halaya Swirl Brownies: A Fusion of Sweetness and Tradition

Ube halaya swirl brownies are a delightful blend of Filipino dessert culture and classic Western baking. This unique treat combines the rich, nutty flavor of ube (purple yam) with the fudgy texture of brownies, creating a vibrant and indulgent experience. Whether you’re a fan of ube or a brownie lover, this recipe offers a creative way to elevate your baking game. From the creamy swirls of ube halaya to the decadent chocolate base, we’ll explore how to craft this dessert with precision and flair. Along the way, we’ll share tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make your recipe a standout. Let’s dive into the world of ube halaya swirl brownies and discover why they’re more than just a sweet treat—they’re a celebration of flavor and tradition.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12 brownies

Ingredients

  • For the Brownie Base:
    • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • ½ tsp salt
    • ¼ tsp baking powder
  • For the Ube Halaya Swirl:
    • 2 cups mashed ube (purple yam)
    • ½ cup evaporated milk
    • ½ cup brown sugar
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • Pinch of salt
  • Optional Additions:
    • 1 cup chopped nuts (e.g., macadamia or almonds) for texture
    • 1 tbsp coconut oil for a richer swirl
    • Substitute ube with sweet potato or pumpkin for a twist

Preparation Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Make the brownie batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense texture.
  3. Prepare the ube halaya: In a saucepan, combine mashed ube, evaporated milk, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10-15 minutes). Let cool slightly.
  4. Pour the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to create a well in the center for the ube swirl.
  5. Swirl in the ube mixture: Spoon the cooled ube halaya into the well and use a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect. For a more defined swirl, use a piping bag.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely before cutting.
  7. Optional: Add toppings like toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of chocolate glaze for extra flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid: Overmixing the batter can lead to a cake-like texture. Ensure the ube halaya is not too