Fluffy Purple Pancake Recipe (Easy Ube Pancakes From Scratch!)

If you love colorful, delicious breakfasts, you’re going to adore this purple pancake recipe! These ube pancakes are soft, fluffy, and packed with the subtly sweet, nutty flavor of ube. Best of all, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients—no complicated techniques or rare ingredients needed.

Topped with juicy blueberries, drizzled chocolate, and pink sprinkles, these pancakes aren’t just a treat for your taste buds—they’re visually stunning and perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. So, let’s get flipping and whip up the best ube pancakes ever.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Easy to Make – No fancy ingredients or techniques required
• Naturally Vibrant – The ube flour (or powder + extract) gives these pancakes their beautiful purple color—no food dye needed
• Kid-Friendly & Fun – These pancakes are a hit with kids and adults alike
• Customizable Toppings – Blueberries, syrup, chocolate, or even whipped cream

Taste & Texture

These ube pancakes are light, fluffy, and slightly sweet with a mild, nutty vanilla flavor. The crispy edges contrast beautifully with the soft centers, making every bite irresistible.

Dietary Attributes

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can be made dairy-free by substituting plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 1 cup ube flour (or 3/4 cup all-purpose flour + 2 tbsp ube powder + 1 tsp ube extract)
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• Oil for frying

Toppings

• Fresh blueberries
• Chocolate syrup
• Pink sprinkles

Notes on Quality

For the best pancakes, use fresh, high-quality ube flour or powder. If you’re using ube extract, look for one with real ube flavor rather than artificial dyes.

Possible Substitutions

• For a dairy-free version – Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk
• For a richer taste – Swap olive oil for melted butter
• For added texture – Mix in crushed nuts or coconut flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather and measure all your ingredients.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and olive oil. Set aside.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix the ube flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.

Step 4: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brush it lightly with oil.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Scoop batter into the skillet, making small pancakes. Avoid overcrowding.

Step 7: Once the edges look defined and bubbles form on the surface, flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 8: Serve warm, topped with blueberries, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and pink sprinkles.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Use a non-stick skillet to ensure even cooking
• Do not overmix the batter, or the pancakes may turn out dense
• Cook over medium heat to prevent burning

Common Mistakes

• Using too much oil can make the pancakes greasy
• Flipping too soon can cause the pancakes to fall apart
• Skipping the baking powder will result in flat pancakes

Time-Saving Tips

• Make the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge overnight
• Double the batch and freeze leftovers for a quick breakfast

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• Serve these pancakes with a side of Greek yogurt and honey
• Pair them with crispy bacon or sausage for a sweet-savory contrast

Presentation Ideas

• Stack the pancakes neatly and drizzle chocolate in a zigzag pattern
• Sprinkle crushed nuts or coconut flakes for added crunch

Beverage Pairings

• Iced matcha latte complements the nutty ube flavor
• A warm vanilla chai tea pairs beautifully with the subtle sweetness

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Freeze for up to 3 months, separating each pancake with parchment paper

Reheating Methods

• Microwave: Heat for 20-30 seconds
• Oven: Bake at 300°F for 5-7 minutes
• Skillet: Reheat on low heat for a crispy exterior

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I use pancake mix instead of making it from scratch?
Yes! Use your favorite pancake mix and simply add ube powder and extract for flavor.

Can I make these pancakes vegan?
Yes, substitute flaxseed eggs and plant-based milk for a vegan version.

Troubleshooting

Why are my pancakes too dense?
You may have overmixed the batter or used too little baking powder.

Why are my pancakes not as purple?
Some brands of ube powder have less pigmentation. Add a drop of ube extract for a richer color.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version
• Swap regular sugar for coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option

Flavor Twists

• Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor
• Stir in chocolate chips or shredded coconut for a fun twist

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• In the fall, top with pumpkin spice whipped cream
• For Valentine’s Day, serve with strawberries and pink icing

Conclusion

These fluffy purple pancakes are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious treat for any breakfast table. With a soft texture, nutty ube flavor, and customizable toppings, they’re sure to become a new favorite.

Looking for more fun breakfast ideas? Try these delicious recipes:

• Heart-Shaped Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
• Classic French Toast
• French Omelette with Fines Herbes

For more inspiration, follow along on Pinterest: Cooking with Callie on Pinterest

Let me know in the comments if you try this recipe, and don’t forget to share your pancake creations!

Print