Chewy and Fudgy Purple Ube Brownies (Gluten-Free) Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that’s bursting with vibrant color and rich flavor while being friendly to gluten-free diets, this Chewy and Fudgy Purple Ube Brownies (Gluten-Free) Recipe is an absolute must-try. These brownies stand out with their intense purple hue courtesy of ube extract, paired beautifully with a luscious, creamy texture from melted white chocolate. The perfect balance of chewy edges and fudgy centers will captivate your taste buds and make you fall in love at first bite. Whether you’re a fan of Filipino desserts or simply craving a unique brownie experience, this recipe is sure to become your new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect texture and flavor in these brownies is all about simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the buttery richness to the glorious purple color and gluten-free goodness.

• Butter or coconut oil (1/2 cup): Adds a rich, creamy base and helps create that chewy texture.
• White chocolate (8 oz, bars recommended): Melts into a smooth, velvety blend that brings sweetness and depth.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the brownies without overpowering the delicate ube flavor.
• Sea salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Ube extract (2 tsp): Gives these brownies their iconic bright purple color and signature Filipino dessert taste.
• Large eggs (2): Provide structure and moisture, making the brownies chewy and soft.
• Gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum (1¼ cups): Keeps things gluten-free while ensuring a tender yet firm crumb.

How to Make Chewy and Fudgy Purple Ube Brownies (Gluten-Free) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a crucial step to get a perfectly baked brownie without drying it out. Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper and grease the uncovered sides to make removing the brownies later a breeze.

Step 2: Melt Butter and White Chocolate

Cut the butter into cubes and break the white chocolate bars into smaller pieces. Place both in a large glass mixing bowl and melt them gently. You can microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between for a smooth mixture, or opt for a double boiler method. Once melted, stir thoroughly until the butter and chocolate are fully combined, creating a rich base for your batter.

Step 3: Mix in Sugar, Salt, and Ube Extract

Add the granulated sugar, sea salt, and the magical ube extract to your melted mixture. Whisk everything together well—even if it feels a little gritty at this point, don’t worry; it will come together with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs

Whisk in the eggs to the mixture until it’s smooth and silky. This step is important for binding all the ingredients and ensuring the chewy texture we’re aiming for.

Step 5: Fold in Gluten-Free Flour

Gently fold in your gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum until just combined. Take care not to overmix here, as that can lead to dry brownies. The batter should feel thick, with all ingredients harmoniously blended.

Step 6: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the edges have a light brown hue and the center is just set—it might still be a bit soft, but that’s exactly what makes them chewy and fudgy!

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully lift them out using the parchment paper. Allow them to cool completely for at least 15 minutes before slicing into 16 delightful squares.

How to Serve Chewy and Fudgy Purple Ube Brownies (Gluten-Free) Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can add an extra layer of texture and visual appeal. For a touch of decadence, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top or add a dollop of whipped cream.

Side Dishes

These brownies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of coconut milk or almond milk, perfectly complementing the ube’s creamy flavor. To elevate the dessert, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re sharing these as a gift or at a gathering, try layering the brownies in a beautiful tin with parchment paper separators. You can also arrange brownie bites on a platter with fresh berries and edible flowers for a stunning centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store these delicious purple ube brownies comfortably at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer-lasting freshness, refrigeration for up to a week works well, just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats for months, freezing is your best friend. Place leftover brownies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will stay sublime for up to 6 months, ready whenever your sweet cravings strike.

Reheating

To enjoy them warm like fresh from the oven, reheat a brownie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This little touch will revive the chewy and fudgy magic, making each bite even more enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I substitute the ube extract with fresh ube or ube powder?

Absolutely! While this Chewy and Fudgy Purple Ube Brownies (Gluten-Free) Recipe uses ube extract for convenience and concentrated flavor, you can experiment with fresh ube or ube powder. Just keep in mind that fresh ube may require cooking or steaming before use, and ube powder might need adjusting the liquid content in your recipe.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, you can make these brownies vegan by swapping the butter for coconut oil, using a plant-based egg replacer, and ensuring your white chocolate is dairy-free. The texture may vary slightly, but the ube flavor will still shine beautifully.

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of gluten-free?

You can, but this would lose the gluten-free aspect that makes this recipe special. If gluten isn’t a concern for you, regular flour will work just fine and might result in a slightly different texture.

Why do the brownies sometimes turn out dry?

Overbaking is the most common culprit for dry brownies. Keep a close eye near the 25-minute mark and remove them once the edges are lightly browned and the center still looks a bit soft. They will firm up as they cool, preserving that perfect chewy and fudgy texture.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to these brownies?

Definitely! Chopped macadamia nuts, toasted coconut, or even white chocolate chunks make excellent additions. Just fold them in gently during the flour mixing step to keep your brownies packed with delightful surprises.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about these Chewy and Fudgy Purple Ube Brownies (Gluten-Free) Recipe that makes them stand out in the world of desserts. They bring together bold color, unique flavor, and an irresistible texture that you’ll want to share with everyone you know. Ready to impress friends and family? Whip up a batch, savor every bite, and watch these brownies become your new go-to treat for all occasions!

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