These Ube Scones with Ube Glaze are a vibrant, sweet, and visually captivating twist on traditional scones. Infused with the rich, nutty flavor of ube (purple yam), these treats are both uniquely flavorful and irresistibly tender. Whether you’re looking for a fun baking project or a dazzling addition to a brunch spread, these ube scones are a delightful option. The eye-catching purple hue makes them perfect for special occasions, yet they’re easy enough to prepare any day of the week. Naturally sweetened with a subtle earthiness and topped with a gorgeous ube glaze, they offer just the right balance of comfort and flair—ideal for impressing guests or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee or tea.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)

• 1 large egg

• ¼ cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1-2 tablespoons milk, as needed

For the Ube Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1-2 tablespoons milk

• 1-2 tablespoons ube halaya

Directions

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

• Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut it into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

• Stir in the sugar and mix until evenly combined.

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, cream, vanilla, and ube halaya.

• Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together. Add milk as needed to ensure the dough is not too dry.

• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and gently knead a few times to bring it together.

• Shape into a disc about 1-inch thick and cut into 8 wedges.

• Arrange on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

• While the scones cool, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and ube halaya until smooth.

• Drizzle glaze over the cooled scones before serving.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 300 per scone

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Protein: 4g

• Fat: 13g

• Saturated Fat: 8g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 18g

• Sodium: 120mg

• Cholesterol: 45mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This ube scone recipe shines due to its fusion of classic baking techniques with a vibrant and culturally rich ingredient—ube. While scones are often associated with British afternoon teas, this version brings a delightful Filipino twist to the table. The use of ube halaya not only imparts a gorgeous purple color but also adds depth of flavor that’s subtly sweet, nutty, and unlike anything else commonly found in pastries. It’s a recipe that seamlessly marries the comfort of tradition with the joy of innovation, making it perfect for modern bakers looking to expand their flavor horizons. These scones aren’t just visually stunning; they deliver on flavor, texture, and a hint of novelty that turns any ordinary moment into something memorable.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

The ingredients used in this recipe not only contribute to the delicious final product but also offer a few surprising benefits. Ube halaya, made from purple yam, is rich in antioxidants—particularly anthocyanins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and heart-supporting properties. Ube also contains vitamins A and C, and fiber, supporting digestion and immune function. The use of butter, cream, and eggs provides essential fats and proteins that contribute to satiety, making these scones more than just a sweet treat. Even though this is a dessert, the inclusion of real, wholesome ingredients makes it a more balanced option than store-bought pastries loaded with artificial additives. Using ube also introduces new textures and flavors into the diet, broadening the palate and encouraging culinary exploration.

Cooking Tips

Getting perfect scones is all about managing the dough with care and not overworking it. Cold butter is key—it ensures the scones puff up nicely and develop those signature flaky layers. Be sure to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. When shaping the dough, work quickly and lightly with your hands. Over-kneading can result in tough scones. If the dough feels dry, a tablespoon or two of milk will help bind it together without making it sticky. Another helpful tip is to chill the cut scones in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before baking. This prevents them from spreading too much and helps maintain their structure. When it comes to the glaze, adjust the milk for your desired consistency—thicker for a frosting-like finish or thinner for a delicate drizzle.

Serving Suggestions

These scones are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. For a simple and elegant presentation, enjoy them warm with a cup of hot coffee, milk tea, or matcha latte. If you’re preparing them for a brunch or back-to-school breakfast spread, serve alongside fresh fruits and yogurt for a well-rounded plate. They also make a unique offering at potlucks, bake sales, or birthday parties. Add a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream if you want to turn them into a dessert course. For a slightly savory twist, consider pairing them with cheese or a touch of salted butter to contrast the sweetness. Regardless of how you serve them, their vibrant color and tender crumb will make them a standout dish. They’re also freezer-friendly—just reheat briefly in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Ube Scones with Ube Glaze are a refreshing departure from the ordinary, blending tradition and creativity in every bite. They offer the home baker an opportunity to step beyond conventional flavors and embrace the rich heritage of Filipino cuisine through an accessible and comforting format. With their soft crumb, striking color, and subtly sweet flavor, these scones are ideal for breakfast, dessert, or snacking. Whether you’re serving them for a family gathering, preparing for the school week ahead, or treating yourself to a quiet moment, they never fail to impress. The ingredients are simple yet meaningful, and the process is rewarding without being overly complicated. From their vibrant appearance to their irresistible taste, these scones truly encapsulate what it means to bake with heart and curiosity. And with back-to-school season in full swing, there’s no better time to whip up a batch and share them with those you love—offering a colorful bite of joy for busy mornings and sweet afternoon breaks alike.