Creamy Ube Overnight Oats

This creamy ube overnight oats recipe brings a vibrant Filipino twist to your breakfast routine. The sweet, vanilla-like flavor of ube paired with the hearty texture of overnight oats creates a nutritious meal that's both satisfying and effortless to prepare the night before.

I discovered this recipe during a phase when I was exploring Filipino flavors in everyday meals. My morning routine was transformed when I realized I could enjoy the distinctive taste of ube without the traditional labor-intensive dessert preparation.

Ingredients

• Old-fashioned rolled oats: the foundation that absorbs liquid and creates the perfect texture. Quick oats won't work here as they become too mushy
• Ube halaya or ube extract: provides the signature purple color and unique vanilla-like flavor that makes this recipe special
• Coconut milk: adds richness and complements the tropical essence of ube
• Plant milk or milk of choice: allows for customization based on dietary preferences
• Evaporated milk: optional but creates exceptional creaminess that takes these oats to another level
• Chia seeds: add healthy omega-3s and help thicken the mixture to a perfect consistency
• Sweetener: honey, maple syrup, date syrup, or agave allows you to control the sweetness level
• Vanilla extract: enhances the natural vanilla notes already present in ube
• Coconut shreds and other toppings: for texture contrast and added flavor dimensions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix The Base Ingredients:

Combine ube halaya or extract with all milks, chia seeds, sweetener, and vanilla in your container. Stir thoroughly until the ube is fully dissolved and incorporated. The mixture should take on a uniform purple hue. Take extra time here to break down any ube jam clumps for even distribution of flavor.

Incorporate The Oats:

Add rolled oats to the liquid mixture and stir until every oat is coated in the purple mixture. Ensure there are no dry spots. The oats will begin absorbing the liquid immediately, creating the foundation for the perfect texture.

Refrigerate Overnight:

Seal your container tightly and place in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, though overnight is ideal. During this time, the oats will soften and expand while the chia seeds gel, creating that signature overnight oats texture. The flavors will also meld together beautifully during this resting period.

Finish And Serve:

In the morning, give the oats a good stir to redistribute any settled ingredients. The mixture should be thick but still creamy. If it seems too thick, add a splash of additional milk to reach your desired consistency. Top with your favorite additions like extra ube halaya, fresh fruits, or coconut shreds for added texture and flavor complexity.

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The ube halaya is truly the star ingredient here. I remember the first time I made this recipe, my kitchen was filled with the subtle aroma of ube, reminiscent of vanilla but with its own unique character. It transported me back to trying Filipino desserts at a friend's house years ago.

The Magic of Ube

Ube, or purple yam, is a staple in Filipino cuisine that has gained international popularity for its naturally vibrant color and unique flavor profile. Unlike purple sweet potatoes or taro, ube has a distinct vanilla-like taste with nutty undertones. In traditional Filipino cooking, ube is often made into halaya, a jam-like preparation that forms the basis of many desserts. Using ube in overnight oats not only creates a visually stunning dish but also introduces a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the heartiness of oats.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These ube overnight oats can be prepared in batch and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for meal prep. The color and flavor will actually intensify slightly over time. I recommend using airtight glass containers rather than plastic as the vibrant purple color can stain. If making multiple servings, keep toppings separate and add them just before eating to maintain their texture. The oats will continue to absorb liquid over time, so you might need to add a small splash of milk when serving if they've been stored for multiple days.

Ingredient Substitutions

If ube halaya is unavailable, ube extract works wonderfully, though you may want to add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mashed banana for similar texture. Coconut milk can be replaced with any milk, though the tropical flavor pairing with ube is particularly delightful. For a protein boost, add a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder when mixing. Those avoiding dairy can skip the evaporated milk entirely or replace it with additional coconut cream for richness. The sweetness level is entirely customizable based on personal preference and the natural sweetness of your ube halaya.

Serving Suggestions

For a visually stunning breakfast, serve these oats in clear glass jars to showcase the vibrant purple color. Create a topping bar when serving for guests with options like fresh mango, passion fruit, dragon fruit, and coconut flakes to enhance the tropical theme. A drizzle of condensed milk on top creates a delicious contrast to the purple oats below. For a more substantial breakfast, pair with a side of tropical fruits or a Filipino pandesal bread. These oats also work beautifully as a healthier dessert option when topped with a small scoop of coconut ice cream for special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What makes ube overnight oats unique?

Ube adds a vibrant purple color and a subtle sweet, nutty flavor, creating a unique twist to traditional overnight oats.

→ Can I use fresh ube instead of extract or halaya?

Yes, you can cook and puree fresh ube, although it takes more time. Halaya or extract offers a faster alternative.

→ Are there dairy-free options for creamy oats?

Absolutely! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and skip evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.

→ Can I prepare this without added sweeteners?

Yes, the natural sweetness of ube halaya or extract may be enough. Alternatively, use natural sweeteners as desired.

→ What toppings pair well with ube oats?

Fresh fruits, shredded coconut, nuts, granola, yogurt, or a drizzle of condensed milk complement the dish perfectly.