Name: Creamy Ube Sago Delight: A Sweet Escape You’ll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Small Tapioca Pearls (Ensure you use small pearls for perfect texture.); 1 cup Ube Halaya (Adjust sweetness preference as needed.); 1 cup Milk (Substitute with plant-based milk if desired.); 1 cup Coconut Milk (Enhances richness with coconut flavor.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances sweetness and ube flavor.); Optional Ube Extract (Intensifies flavor and color, use sparingly.); 1 Chopped Fruit (Fresh mango or strawberries for garnish.)

In a bustling market in the Philippines, I stumbled upon a vendor expertly preparing a bright purple dessert that caught my eye. That treat was Ube Sago, and I couldn’t resist its creamy allure! This easy dessert, featuring delightful tapioca pearls, is not just visually stunning but also remarkably simple to whip up in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re satisfying a sweet craving or impressing friends at a gathering, this Ube Sago recipe is your secret weapon. Plus, it’s wonderfully customizable—feel free to experiment with flavors like mango or strawberry for a fresh twist. Are you ready to bring a taste of the islands into your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why Is Ube Sago a Must-Try?

Creamy, Dreamy Delights: The smooth ube mixture combined with chewy tapioca pearls creates a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl!

Bright, Eye-Catching Hue: Its vibrant purple color not only thrills the eyes but also sparks curiosity in any setting.

Quick and Easy: Whip it up in just 30 minutes—perfect for when you find yourself in need of a sweet fix!

Versatile Flavor Options: Customize your Ube Sago by swapping in different flavors like mango or strawberry, making it adaptable to any palate.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at parties or family gatherings, and just watch everyone come back for seconds! This dessert is sure to impress and satisfy!

Ube Sago Ingredients

• Here’s what you need to craft this delightful dessert.

For the Base

Small Tapioca Pearls – Essential for the unique chewy texture; ensure you use small pearls for a perfect Ube Sago.
Ube Halaya – The star of the dessert, adding that sweet, rich ube flavor; easily adjustable to suit your sweetness preference.
Milk – Provides creamy consistency; substitute with any plant-based milk if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Coconut Milk – Enhances the richness with a subtle coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with ube.
Ube Extract – Intensifies ube flavor and color; optional if you prefer a lighter essence.
Vanilla Extract – Complements the ube’s flavor and enhances overall sweetness.

Optional Garnish

Chopped Fruit – Add fresh mango or strawberries for a pop of color and refreshing contrast on top of your Ube Sago.

Let’s get cooking and enjoy this creamy delight that’s bound to become a family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Sago

Step 1: Cook the Tapioca Pearls
Begin by boiling about 4 cups of water in a medium pot over high heat. Once boiling, gently add 1 cup of small tapioca pearls, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for approximately 25 minutes, or until the pearls are completely translucent, with no white dot in the center. Once cooked, remove from heat and drain the tapioca pearls, rinsing them under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Ube Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ube halaya with 1 cup of coconut milk. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Gradually add 1 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to incorporate all the ingredients. For an extra pop of color and flavor, add a few drops of ube extract if desired, stirring until the mixture is vibrant.

Step 3: Combine Tapioca Pearls and Ube Mixture
After rinsing, drain the cooked tapioca pearls one more time and add them directly to the creamy ube mixture in the bowl. Carefully fold the pearls into the mixture using a spatula, ensuring even distribution without breaking the pearls. This will help create the delightful texture characteristic of Ube Sago, combining the chewy pearls and the smooth ube flavors seamlessly.

Step 4: Chill and Serve
Once everything is combined, you can serve the Ube Sago immediately for a warm dessert or refrigerate it for about one hour for a chilled version. When ready to serve, ladle the creamy Ube Sago into individual bowls or cups. For an added touch, garnish with chopped fresh fruit like strawberries or mango, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Enjoy this delightful treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Ube Sago desserts are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights! You can cook the small tapioca pearls up to 24 hours in advance; just drain and immerse them in cold water to maintain their chewy texture. Additionally, prepare the ube mixture by combining the ube halaya, coconut milk, and milk a day ahead, then refrigerate it separately. When ready to serve, simply drain the tapioca pearls, fold them into the ube mixture, and garnish with fresh fruit. This way, you’ll have a delicious Ube Sago ready to delight your family with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Ube Sago

Fridge: Keep Ube Sago in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making each bite even more delightful!

Freezer: While fresh Ube Sago is best enjoyed right away, if you must freeze it, portion it into airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer your Ube Sago slightly warm, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of coconut or regular milk to maintain the creamy texture.

Separation Tip: It’s normal for Ube Sago to thicken in the fridge; give it a good stir before serving to reincorporate the tapioca pearls back into the mixture.

Expert Tips for Ube Sago

Perfectly Cooked Pearls: Ensure the small tapioca pearls are completely transparent before draining to achieve that signature chewy texture. If not fully cooked, continue boiling.
Flavor Balance: Adjust the sweetness to your liking by modifying the amount of ube halaya used—start with less and add more as needed for your perfect Ube Sago.
Color Consideration: Ube extract can deepen the color, but be cautious as it is quite concentrated; mix with a bit of milk first to integrate it smoothly into your dessert.
Cool Down: If chilling the dessert, allow it to sit for at least an hour before serving. This helps flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Garnish Wisely: Enhance presentation and taste by adding fresh chopped fruits just before serving—fruits like strawberries and mango add brightness and contrast to your Ube Sago.

What to Serve with Creamy Ube Sago with Tapioca Pearls

Indulging in this colorful Filipino dessert calls for some delightful companions to create the perfect meal experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens the palate and adds a burst of natural sweetness to contrast with the creamy Ube Sago. Think juicy mangoes, tart strawberries, and ripe bananas for a tropical vibe!
Coconut Sticky Rice: This subtly sweet and chewy rice dish balances the creamy Ube Sago beautifully. It’s a traditional pairing that enhances the coconut undertones in both desserts.
Sweet Banana Fritters: Crispy, golden fritters provide a comforting crunch that complements the smooth texture of Ube Sago, merging rich flavors in a delightful way. Each bite is a new adventure!
Filipino Leche Flan: A luxurious custard with caramelized sugar offers a rich contrast, making for a decadent dessert duo that’s sure to impress. These silky treats create harmony on the dessert table!
Iced Tea with Lemon: A refreshing iced tea infused with a hint of lemon or calamansi helps cleanse the palate and adds a zesty kick that brightens up your dessert spread.
Mango Float: This no-bake layered dessert brings another creamy, fruity element to your meal, featuring luscious mango pieces that complement the Ube Sago’s sweet flavors. The more, the merrier!
Chocolates or Mints: A simple yet elegant finish with a few chocolates or spearmint leaves offers a delightful surprise to the taste buds, rounding out your sweet journey perfectly!

Ube Sago Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this Ube Sago recipe, transforming it into a new favorite dessert for every occasion!

Flavor Twist: Substitute Ube Halaya with other sweet flavors like mango or strawberry for a vibrant fruity version. The new taste will surprise and delight your palate!
Dairy-Free Delight: Switch Milk with any plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk for a creamy, dairy-free treat. This option is perfect for vegan eaters or those with lactose intolerance.
Extra Creamy: Use Coconut Cream instead of coconut milk for an even richer dessert that makes each bite feel indulgent. Your taste buds will thank you for this luxurious version!
Nutty Surprise: Add toasted Coconut Flakes into the dessert for added crunch and flavor. This delightful texture pairs beautifully with the creamy elements of the Ube Sago.
Flavorful Infusion: Incorporate a hint of Cardamom or Cinnamon into the ube mixture for a warm, aromatic touch that elevates the dessert to a new level. These spices will wrap you in a cozy embrace!
Chili Kick: For those who prefer a little heat, mix in a dash of Cayenne Pepper or finely chopped Jalapeño for an unexpected spicy twist. It’s a bold way to surprise your guests!
Berry Burst: Top with Mixed Berries like blueberries or blackberries before serving for a pop of freshness and color. This simple addition brightens the dish and provides a tart contrast to the sweetness.
Garnish Upgrade: Instead of chopped fruit, consider a drizzle of Honey or Agave Syrup for added sweetness that lingers. This sweet touch mellows out the flavors perfectly!

For more fresh inspiration, you can check out delicious dairy-free dessert options or learn how to create delightful tropical fruit variations that will make your Ube Sago the star of any gathering!

Ube Sago Recipe FAQs

What type of tapioca pearls should I use for Ube Sago?
Absolutely use small tapioca pearls for Ube Sago! These are essential for achieving that delightful chewy texture. Larger pearls are often used in bubble tea but can be too large for this dessert. Look for packages labeled as “small” or “instant” tapioca pearls to ensure the perfect outcome.

How should I store leftover Ube Sago?
You can store Ube Sago in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just remember that as it sits, the flavors will deepen, making each bite a bit more scrumptious! If you notice any separation, don’t worry—just give it a good stir before serving.

Can I freeze Ube Sago and how do I do it?
While fresh Ube Sago tastes best, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Pour the dessert into airtight containers, portioning it for easier serving later. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. If you want to warm it up, gently reheat on low heat with a splash of milk for creaminess.

What should I do if my tapioca pearls are still white inside after cooking?
Very! If you find that the pearls still have a white dot in the center, they need more cooking. Simply bring the pot back to a gentle boil and continue cooking for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally until they are completely translucent. Patience is key to achieving the perfect chewy texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for making Ube Sago?
Definitely! Ube Sago can be made dairy-free by substituting the regular milk with any plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk. Additionally, make sure to check ingredient labels for potential allergens, particularly if you’re planning to serve it to friends or family with specific sensitivities. Enjoy your dessert worry-free!