There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of sinking your teeth into a soft, pillowy steamed bun. The chewy yet fluffy texture combined with the sweet, creamy ube filling makes these Ube Steamed Buns a true delight. If you’re a fan of Filipino desserts or simply love the vibrant purple hue of ube, then this recipe is perfect for you.
This easy, beginner-friendly recipe will walk you through creating your very own homemade ube steamed buns, perfect for snacks, desserts, or even a unique treat to share with friends and family. The best part? These buns are steamed, so there’s no need for an oven or complicated techniques. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
What is Ube?
Ube, also known as purple yam, is a root vegetable that is widely used in Filipino cuisine. It’s naturally sweet with a hint of vanilla-like flavor, making it perfect for desserts and pastries. Its vibrant purple color makes every dish visually appealing, and when incorporated into steamed buns, the result is not only delicious but also stunning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Ube Filling:
- 1 cup ube halaya (purple yam jam) – you can find this at most Asian supermarkets or make your own from scratch
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Fluffy Ube Steamed Buns
1. Prepare the Ube Filling
If you’re using store-bought ube halaya, you’re already halfway there! For a smoother, creamier filling, mix the ube halaya with sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This not only enhances the sweetness but also adds a richer texture. Set the filling aside in a bowl while you prepare the dough.
If you prefer making ube halaya from scratch, cook peeled and mashed purple yam with sugar, butter, and milk until you achieve a smooth and thick consistency. It’s a bit more effort but worth it for that authentic homemade taste.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt. Gradually pour in the warm water and mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough starts to come together. Add the vegetable oil, which will make the dough more pliable and easy to work with.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You want to knead just enough to develop the gluten, which gives the buns their characteristic fluffy texture.
3. Let the Dough Rise
Once you’ve finished kneading, place the dough back into the bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for ensuring your buns come out light and fluffy. The yeast needs time to work its magic!
4. Divide and Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions, depending on how large or small you want your buns to be. Roll each portion into a ball.
5. Add the Ube Filling
Flatten each dough ball into a disk with your hands or a rolling pin, making sure the edges are thinner than the center. Place about a tablespoon of the prepared ube filling in the center of each disk. Carefully fold up the sides of the dough, pinching the edges to seal the filling inside. Make sure to seal them tightly to avoid any leaks while steaming.
Gently roll each filled dough ball between your hands to smooth out the shape.
6. Prepare for Steaming
Line a steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent the buns from sticking. Place the buns inside the steamer, making sure to leave enough space between them to expand as they steam. Cover the steamer with a lid and let the buns rest for 15 minutes before cooking. This second proofing allows the dough to relax and become even fluffier.
7. Steam the Buns
Bring a pot of water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Place the steamer basket over the pot and steam the buns for about 12-15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during steaming, as this could cause the buns to deflate.
After steaming, remove the buns from the basket and let them cool slightly before serving. They should be soft, warm, and bursting with that delicious ube flavor!
Why You’ll Love These Ube Steamed Buns
These buns are the perfect blend of soft, fluffy dough and sweet ube filling. Whether you’re already a fan of ube or trying it for the first time, you’ll appreciate the unique flavor profile that combines sweet, creamy, and slightly nutty elements. Plus, the vibrant purple color makes these buns an eye-catching treat for any occasion!
Tips for Success
- Don’t over-knead the dough: While kneading is essential, over-kneading can result in tough buns. Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Proof the dough twice: Allowing the dough to rise twice (once after kneading and once after shaping) will result in the fluffiest buns.
- Seal the buns tightly: Make sure the edges are well-sealed around the filling to avoid any leakage during steaming.
How to Store and Reheat Ube Steamed Buns
If you have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), you can store these buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply steam the buns again for 5-7 minutes, or microwave them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
FAQs
How long should I knead the dough for fluffy buns?
- Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can make the buns tough, so avoid kneading for too long.
Can I make the ube filling from scratch?
- Yes! You can cook mashed ube with sugar, milk, and butter until it reaches a thick consistency. This homemade version will give your buns a richer, more authentic flavor.
Do I need a special steamer for these buns?
- Any standard bamboo or metal steamer will work. Just be sure to line the steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
Can I use a different filling instead of ube?
- Absolutely! These buns can be filled with other sweet fillings like red bean paste, custard, or even chocolate.
Why are my buns not fluffy after steaming?
- If your buns turned out dense, it could be due to under-proofing or over-kneading the dough. Make sure to let the dough rise fully, and avoid over-kneading.
Can I freeze the buns?
- Yes, these buns freeze well! Store them in an airtight container for up to a month and reheat by steaming.
Conclusion
Making easy fluffy ube steamed buns at home is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Not only do you get to enjoy a soft, pillowy treat, but you also get the satisfaction of creating something from scratch. With a few simple ingredients and this step-by-step guide, you’ll have a batch of beautiful, purple buns ready to impress. Whether you’re familiar with ube or trying it for the first time, these steamed buns are sure to become a favorite in your household!