Easy Ube Revel Bars Recipe: Simple & Delicious!

Filipino desserts often showcase the vibrant color and distinct flavor of ube, or purple yam. This ingredient lends a unique sweetness and a visually appealing hue to various baked goods. One such example is a dessert that combines a rich, buttery base with a creamy, ube-infused filling, resulting in a delightful textural and flavor experience. This type of dessert, often enjoyed during gatherings and celebrations, demonstrates the resourcefulness and creativity of Filipino cuisine.

This particular treat is valuable because it provides a relatively straightforward way to incorporate ube into a baked dessert. It often utilizes readily available ingredients, making it accessible for home bakers. Its appeal lies in its balance of flavors and textures the buttery crust complements the smooth, sweet ube filling, resulting in a satisfying and comforting treat that evokes feelings of home and tradition.

The following provides insight into how to create this delicious dessert, by highlighting key components and easy steps to assemble.

1. Ube flavor intensity

The depth of ube flavor is at the heart of a really good batch of ube revel bars. Think of it like this: the recipe provides the framework, the structure, but the ube flavor is what truly defines the whole experience. The stronger the ube flavor, the more authentic and satisfying the bars become. If the flavor is too subtle, it’s just another sweet treat; but when the ube sings, it’s a different story altogether. This is why using high-quality ube extract, ube halaya (ube jam), or even freshly grated ube (if you’re feeling ambitious) makes a huge difference. A few drops of extract can add a hint of purple and a touch of that signature ube taste, while a generous amount of ube halaya will give you a richer, more concentrated flavor that really shines.

The intensity of the ube flavor affects how the bars interact with the other elements, like the buttery crust and any chocolate or cream cheese swirls. For example, if the ube flavor is mild, you might want to add a pinch of salt to the filling to balance the sweetness and make the ube notes pop. If you’re using a stronger ube ingredient, consider using a less sweet crust recipe to avoid overpowering the palate. Also, remember to adjust the amount of ube used depending on its form. Ube extract is concentrated, so a little goes a long way, while you’ll need a much larger quantity of ube halaya or grated ube to achieve the same level of intensity. This step will guide the baker on their Ube flavor, sweetness, and overall bar texture.

Ultimately, controlling the ube flavor intensity is about achieving a delicious and balanced result. It’s the factor that elevates the bars from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a memorable treat that showcases the unique qualities of ube. Finding the right balance can be tricky, so start with a small amount and taste as you go, adjusting until you reach the perfect level of ube goodness. With a little experimentation, anyone can master the art of creating ube revel bars with the perfect flavor intensity.

2. Crust texture

Crust texture in any bar recipe makes a big difference. For ube revel bars, it’s the foundation upon which all the deliciousness rests. Think of it as a balancing act. If the crust is too hard, it’s a struggle to bite into, overshadowing the creamy filling. If it’s too soft, it crumbles apart, making it difficult to eat and disrupting the intended experience. The right crust texture is often a tender, slightly crumbly base that provides enough support but yields easily with each bite. It’s a subtle detail, but it has a substantial impact on the overall enjoyment of these bars.

Achieving the ideal crust texture involves a few key factors. The type and amount of fat used in the recipe play a crucial role. Butter, for example, contributes a richness and flakiness, while shortening can create a more tender crumb. The ratio of dry to wet ingredients is also vital; too much flour can result in a dry, tough crust, while too little can lead to a soggy one. The mixing method also matters. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher crust. A gentle hand ensures a tender result. The baking time and temperature are also important considerations because Overbaking will dry out the crust, while underbaking can leave it underdone and doughy. For instance, a shortbread-like crust, which is common for revel bars, needs to be baked until it’s lightly golden and firm to the touch. This ensures it’s cooked through but still tender.

Ultimately, the pursuit of the perfect crust texture is a worthwhile endeavor. A well-executed crust elevates this from a simple dessert to a truly delightful experience. While there may be variations in preference some prefer a slightly crispier edge, others a softer center the goal remains the same: a foundation that complements the ube filling and enhances the overall enjoyment of the bar. So, paying close attention to the ingredients, mixing methods, and baking times is essential for creating ube revel bars with the ideal texture.

3. Filling consistency

The filling in ube revel bars is really the star, and its consistency is key to its success. Too runny, and the bars become a sticky mess. Too thick, and they’re dense and unappealing. What’s wanted is a smooth, creamy texture that holds its shape when cut but melts in your mouth. The proper filling not only tastes amazing but also creates a pleasant textural contrast with the crust. If this critical component fails, the eating experience may become undesirable. The ingredient selection and baking time will impact the final output of this component.

Several factors affect the ube filling’s texture. The type and amount of liquid used, whether it’s milk, cream, or condensed milk, plays a major role. Too much liquid will result in a runny filling, while too little can make it thick and pasty. The cooking time is also important. Overcooking can cause the filling to seize and become grainy, while undercooking can leave it too thin. If a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch is used, it’s important to measure it accurately and cook it properly to avoid lumps. Achieving the perfect balance often involves a bit of experimentation and adjusting the recipe to suit individual preferences and oven conditions. An improper ratio will yield less desirable results.

Getting the filling consistency just right is a hallmark of well-made ube revel bars. It ties together the flavor and texture components, creating a delicious dessert. It may present challenges, especially for those new to baking, but the reward is well worth the effort. With practice and a little attention to detail, achieving a perfect ube filling, striking the ideal balance of richness, smoothness, and structural integrity, becomes totally achievable. When this occurs, the ube revel bars showcase a harmonious interplay of flavor and texture to be enjoyed.

4. Sweetness balance

Sweetness balance is super important in ube revel bars. After all, nobody wants a dessert that’s overwhelmingly sugary or, on the flip side, disappointingly bland. Finding that sweet spot elevates the whole experience, letting the unique ube flavor shine through alongside the buttery crust and the other ingredients. It is something many people look for when finding the perfect recipe.

• Ube’s Natural Sweetness

  Ube itself contributes sweetness to the bars. Different ube preparations (extract, halaya, fresh ube) have varying levels of sweetness. Using a less sweet base can allow the Ube flavor to stand out, while others may need to add extra sweeteners depending on the recipe. Understanding this inherent sweetness is the first step in controlling the overall sugar content. For those finding a perfect Ube recipe, there are many types to choose from.

• Crust Considerations

  The crust also plays a part in the sweetness equation. A less sweet crust provides a counterpoint to the richer filling, preventing the dessert from becoming cloying. The baker can balance out the flavor by having a less sweet recipe to use.

• Sweetener Choices

  The type of sweetener makes a difference. Granulated sugar, brown sugar, condensed milk each impart slightly different flavors and sweetness levels. Brown sugar adds a molasses-like flavor which complements Ube very well and a great taste to the Ube revel bars.

• Balancing Act

  Salt plays a surprisingly important role! A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors. This helps make sure the taste is not overwhelmingly sweet. This adds a new layer of complexity to the bars. A salt content can make an incredible difference to this dish.

Ultimately, a balanced sweetness is about creating a harmonious blend of flavors that lets you savor all the nuances of the ube, the richness of the butter, and the subtle hints of vanilla or other flavorings. It’s the key to transforming from a simply acceptable dessert to one that is irresistible to have. So, it’s worth taking the time to find that sweet spot, adjusting the ingredients and tweaking the recipe until it tastes just right. The steps above shows that a balanced sweetness makes an incredible difference when looking at a simple ube revel bars recipe.

5. Ease of preparation

When searching for a dessert to make, ease of preparation is often a top consideration. A complicated recipe, no matter how delicious the final product, can be daunting. This is especially true for those new to baking or with limited time. With an “easy” recipe, anyone can create the bars quickly and with minimal fuss.

• Minimal Ingredients

  Recipes that require a long list of hard-to-find items can be off-putting. A streamlined ingredients list focuses on readily available items, making the baking process more accessible and less intimidating. A simple dough recipe will require fewer ingredients, enabling many to enjoy.

• Simple Instructions

  Complex baking techniques or elaborate steps can be confusing and time-consuming. Easy recipes provide clear, concise instructions that are easy to follow, even for novice bakers. Short, succinct steps can greatly assist in a quick Ube revel bar dish.

• Time Efficiency

  Many bakers can find a quick and easy recipe, which helps minimize active time. Recipes that don’t require long chilling periods or complicated assembly appeal to those seeking a quick treat without sacrificing flavor. An easy recipe can offer both flavor and save on baking time.

• Beginner-Friendly Techniques

  Baking can seem mysterious, but simple recipes avoid advanced techniques like tempering chocolate or making complex pastry. Instead, they rely on straightforward methods that anyone can master with a little practice. This also shows that easy recipes can be a great option.

These easy-to-follow details of the “simple ube revel bars recipe” make it an appealing option for anyone. It allows people to focus on enjoying the process of baking and savoring the delicious results, without getting bogged down by complicated procedures. An easy and simple dish also promotes for families to bake the dessert for memories.

6. Visual appeal

Ube revel bars, beyond their taste, have a special draw because of how they look. That vibrant purple color instantly catches the eye, making people want to try them. It’s not just the color either; the way the layers come together, the contrast between the crust and the filling, it all adds to the appeal. Think of it like this: a beautifully plated dish makes you more excited to eat, and these bars are no different. They’re like little works of art, promising a tasty experience before you even take a bite. Stores highlight ube-flavored desserts because of the color and taste, which entice consumers to purchase it.

The color plays a big role in how we perceive flavor. The purple hue of ube suggests something unique and exotic. This visual cue sets it apart from other desserts and creates a sense of anticipation. For instance, if you see two identical bars, one plain and one with a swirl of ube, the one with ube is instantly more attractive. This is because the color implies a special flavor. A visually appealing and delightful appearance is highly desired by many individuals. It contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment. The baker’s creative approach to displaying Ube bars, along with its appealing flavor, may result in a high-demand dessert. Making sure these considerations are covered can improve the user experience.

Ultimately, the visual appeal of ube revel bars adds a lot to their charm. It’s about more than just looking pretty; it’s about creating a positive first impression and enhancing the overall eating experience. While taste is important, the visual element is what initially draws people in, making them more likely to try and ultimately enjoy these delicious treats. A baker’s display of Ube bars contributes to the product’s success and sale. This also showcases the hardwork of baking, making the desert visually desirable.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

7. For the Crust

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

8. For the Ube Filling

• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons ube halaya (purple yam jam)
• 1 teaspoon ube extract
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Instructions

9. Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, softened butter, brown sugar, and salt.
3. Mix with a pastry blender or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.

10. Making the Ube Filling

1. While the crust is baking, prepare the ube filling. In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, white chocolate chips, ube halaya, ube extract, and flour.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Pour the ube filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.

11. Baking the Bars

1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden.
2. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

Optional Tips: For a richer flavor, brown the butter before making the crust. Substitute macapuno strings for shredded coconut if available. For a deeper purple color, add a few drops of purple food coloring to the filling. Ensure bars are completely cool to prevent breakage during cutting.

Essential Cooking Equipment

Preparation of ube revel bars requires several key kitchen tools. A 9×13 inch baking pan is necessary for even baking and consistent bar size. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accurate ingredient proportions, crucial for both the crust and filling. A pastry blender or fork facilitates the cutting of butter into the flour mixture for the crust, achieving the desired crumbly texture. Mixing bowls, in varying sizes, are needed for combining the crust and filling ingredients separately. A rubber spatula assists in scraping the bowls clean and spreading the filling evenly over the crust. Lastly, an oven is essential for baking the bars to golden perfection. A knife is needed for cutting the bars, a cooling rack helps for a quick cooldown process.

Variations

Several adaptations of the “simple ube revel bars recipe” are possible.

• Ingredient Swaps: Almond flour can replace all-purpose flour in the crust for a gluten-free alternative. Coconut oil may be substituted for butter, offering a vegan option and a subtle coconut flavor. Macapuno strings can replace shredded coconut in the filling, adding a unique texture and flavor. Different types of chocolate, such as dark or milk chocolate chips, can be used instead of white chocolate chips, altering the overall sweetness and flavor profile.
• Regional Twists: Addition of langka (jackfruit) to the filling, reflecting regional Filipino preferences. Incorporating a layer of leche flan on top of the ube filling creates a fusion of two classic Filipino desserts.
• Dietary Adjustments: Sugar substitutes, such as stevia or erythritol, can reduce the overall sugar content for those with dietary restrictions. Using dairy-free condensed milk and chocolate makes the recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy. Reduce butter consumption to address fat constraints.

Serving Suggestions

Ube revel bars are suitable for various occasions. These bars make a satisfying midday snack or a delightful addition to afternoon tea. They can be served as a dessert after a Filipino-themed meal. Furthermore, these bars can be incorporated into dessert platters for parties or celebrations. Serving them chilled enhances the texture and flavor, especially during warmer months. Consider pairing the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage Tips

To maintain freshness, ube revel bars should be stored properly. Once cooled, cut the bars and arrange them in an airtight container. Storage in the refrigerator helps preserve the bars’ texture and prevent spoilage, especially in warmer climates. Ube revel bars can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, the bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. When freezing, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw the bars in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their texture and flavor. A sealed container in a cool area is highly recommended.

So, there you have it! This “simple ube revel bars recipe” is more than just a set of instructions; it’s an invitation to bring a little bit of Filipino joy into your kitchen. With its vibrant color, unique ube flavor, and satisfying texture, these bars are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Plus, with easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, you don’t have to be a master baker to create something truly special.

These ube revel bars are not just delicious; they’re a celebration of Filipino flavors and a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them all by yourself, these bars are sure to bring a smile to your face.

We highly encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic of ube for yourself! Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creations and share them with us. We’d love to see how yours turned out! Feel free to leave a comment below and tell us about your baking journey.

Happy cooking, and let us know how yours turns out!