Ube Bars (Filipino Coconut-Coated Butter Cake)

Ube Bars – A Filipino Bakery Classic with a Twist 💜🥥

If you grew up in the Philippines, chances are you’ve seen Ube Bars in your local panaderia or as a sweet pasalubong from Tagaytay. These vibrant purple treats are buttery cake bars dipped in a sweet ube-flavored syrup, then coated generously in toasted coconut. The result? A chewy, moist, and coconutty dessert that tastes like pure nostalgia. ✨

What makes this version by Chef RV Manabat so special is its simplicity. Using pantry staples like flour, butter, sugar, and milk, you can recreate this iconic Filipino snack at home without any complicated steps. Even better, the recipe uses ube flavoring instead of fresh ube, making it affordable and accessible anywhere in the world.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 😍

• ✅ Authentic Filipino flavor – Inspired by panaderia and street-style versions from Tagaytay
• ✅ Easy to make – No need for fresh ube or special equipment
• ✅ Great for sharing – Perfect for potlucks, merienda, or small food business ideas
• ✅ Budget-friendly – Can be made with margarine and water for an even more economical version

The Ube Bar Experience

Each bite is a balance of soft buttery cake and the sweet creaminess of ube syrup, with the toasted coconut adding a light crunch and aroma. Unlike the rich cakes of today’s cafes, this dessert shines in its humble street-snack charm. It’s easy to pack, easy to sell, and even easier to enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. ☕🍫

Tips for Perfect Ube Bars 👩‍🍳

• Use softened butter for a moist and tender crumb (or margarine for a nostalgic bakery feel).
• Toast the desiccated coconut only until aromatic—too dark and it turns bitter.
• Dip the bars quickly in the syrup—just enough to coat, not soak. This keeps them moist but not soggy.

Serving Ideas 🍽️

• Slice into neat bars and serve on banana leaves for a street-food presentation.
• Wrap individually in wax paper for an authentic bakery vibe.
• Store in an airtight container to keep the coconut coating fresh.

A Taste of Childhood Memories

From merienda breaks to pasalubong treats on road trips to Tagaytay, Ube Bars hold a special place in Filipino hearts. They’re proof that even the simplest ingredients, when put together with care, can create something memorable.

So whether you’re making these for family, friends, or as a small business idea, these purple-hued delights are sure to spark joy. 💜🥥