Okay, if you’re a fan of creamy cold foam on iced drinks, you’re gonna love this one. It’s got that sweet vanilla flavor but with a twist—UBE. Yup, that beautiful purple yam flavor that makes everything magical. It’s sweet, earthy, and just… better.
This ube vanilla cold foam takes like 5 minutes and makes any iced drink feel like a treat from your favorite coffee shop.
You only need a few simple ingredients and a hand frother or blender. Ready? Let’s go.
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 2 tbsp ube halaya (ube jam)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind works, I like oat or whole milk)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp simple syrup or sweetener of choice (optional)
👩🍳 Why I Love This Recipe
I first made this when I wanted something different from the usual vanilla sweet cream. The ube flavor reminded me of a dessert I had on a trip to the Philippines—and I’ve been obsessed ever since. Here’s why I keep making it:
- You only need 5 ingredients.
- It makes any drink feel fancy.
- You don’t need a fancy machine—just a frother or blender.
- It’s gorgeous. That purple swirl is a total vibe.
- It adds rich flavor without being too sweet.
🧪 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Heavy cream has the fat needed to create a thick, foamy texture.
- Milk thins it out just enough so it pours easily over iced drinks.
- Ube halaya adds body and natural sweetness—plus that bold purple hue.
- Vanilla and simple syrup balance the earthiness of the ube and give it a coffee-shop flavor.
🍽 Servings + Time
- Serves: 2 drinks
- Time: 5 minutes
🧊 Meal Plan Ideas
- Add this to iced coffee for a weekend brunch treat.
- Use it to top cold matcha or chai for a fun twist.
- Drizzle over pancakes or waffles as a cool whipped topping.
- Dollop on fresh fruit instead of whipped cream.
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Not blending enough: If it’s too runny, it hasn’t whipped enough. Give it another 30 seconds.
- Using only milk: You need the heavy cream to get that thick, foamy texture.
- Adding too much ube jam: It can weigh down the foam and make it hard to whip.
- Not chilling the cream: Cold cream whips up faster and better.
🍴 What to Serve With
- Iced cold brew
- Iced matcha lattes
- Ube pancakes or waffles
- Toast with coconut jam
- Fruit bowls
🍽 Tools You’ll Need
- Handheld milk frother or small blender
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl for ube
- Tall glass
- Spoon
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- Milk: Use almond, oat, soy, or whole milk.
- Sweetener: Swap simple syrup for maple syrup, honey, or skip it.
- Ube halaya: If you can’t find this, try ube extract + a little sugar or condensed milk.
- Vanilla: Use vanilla bean paste for extra flavor.
⏳ Make Ahead Tips
- Mix everything (don’t froth) and store in a sealed container for up to 2 days.
- Froth right before serving for best texture.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a small bowl or blender cup, add 2 tbsp ube halaya, 1/2 cup cold heavy cream, 1/4 cup milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tbsp simple syrup (optional).
Step 2: Blend or Froth
Use a handheld milk frother or small blender. Froth until the mixture becomes thick, fluffy, and forms soft peaks—about 30 to 60 seconds.
Step 3: Serve Over Iced Drink
Pour or spoon the cold foam over your favorite iced coffee or matcha. Watch the foam gently float and swirl on top.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftover unfrothed mix in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Always froth fresh before serving.
- Don’t store once frothed—it loses its texture.
💬 FAQ
Can I make it without a frother?
Yes! Use a small blender or even shake it hard in a sealed jar (takes longer but works in a pinch).
Where can I find ube halaya?
Look for it in Asian markets or online. It’s usually in jars.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yup! Use full-fat coconut cream and a plant-based milk.
💜 Final Thoughts
This Ube Vanilla Cold Foam is one of those little things that makes your day feel extra special. It’s creamy, flavorful, and stunning to look at. Whether you’re making a fancy coffee for yourself or sharing it with friends, it’ll definitely impress. Try it, tweak it, and let me know how yours turns out! Drop a comment below if you have questions or want to share your own twist!
