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When a long day winds down and my kitchen fills with the buttery aroma of baking, I know something special is on the way. Enter this Buttery Ube Pound Cake—a delightful treat that’s equal parts nostalgia and novelty. The vibrant, purple-hued ube brings an unexpected twist to a classic recipe, combining sweet, nutty flavors with a moist, buttery crumb that’s simply irresistible.

I first discovered ube while sharing recipes with friends, and it opened up a whole new world of flavor. Now, whenever I have guests over or just want to spoil myself, I whip up this cake for its fantastic versatility. Whether served at a brunch with friends or as an indulgent afternoon snack, it stands out on any table.

Best of all, this recipe delivers both taste and ease, making it the perfect companion for busy home cooks looking to elevate their baking game without spending all day in the kitchen. Grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into this vibrant, crowd-pleasing delight!

Why is this Buttery Ube Pound Cake so special?

Uniquely Delicious: The ube flavor adds a beautiful twist to a classic pound cake, making it unlike any other dessert.

Moist and Flavorful: Thanks to the combination of sour cream and butter, each slice offers a rich, buttery experience that melts in your mouth.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Versatile Presentation: Dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar or serve it plain; it fits any occasion beautifully.

Crowd-Pleasing: This striking purple cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes that will impress your guests.

If you’re looking for more creative baking ideas, check out my post on making classic pound cake variations.

Buttery Ube Pound Cake Ingredients

For the Batter
• All-purpose flour – 2 cups, providing the structure necessary for a perfect pound cake.
• Baking powder – 2 teaspoons, helping the cake rise and achieve a light texture.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon, balancing the sweetness and enhancing flavor.
• Unsalted butter – 1 cup, crucial for that rich, buttery flavor in your Ube Pound Cake.
• Granulated sugar – 1.5 cups, sweetening the cake and contributing to its moistness.
• Large eggs – 3, acting as a binder that enriches the cake’s texture.
• Sour cream – 1 cup, adding moisture and a delightful tang that balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, offering a warm, inviting base flavor to complement the ube.
• Ube extract – 1 tablespoon, infusing the cake with a vibrant ube flavor that makes it stand out.
• Ube halaya – 1/2 cup, adding both sweetness and a pop of color to this delectable dessert.

Feel free to gather these ingredients and get ready to experience the joy of baking this Buttery Ube Pound Cake!

How to Make Buttery Ube Pound Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and generously grease a loaf pan to ensure the cake slides out easily once baked.
Mix flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl, then set aside. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents for a perfect rise.
Cream room temperature butter in a mixing bowl until fluffy and pale, about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air, which is key for a light texture.
Add granulated sugar and whip together until light and airy. You want the mixture to be a lovely pale yellow, signaling that it’s ready for the next step.
Incorporate eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a smooth and cohesive batter without any lumps.
Blend in sour cream, vanilla extract, ube extract, and ube halaya until fully combined. The batter will turn a beautiful purple, reflecting the delightful flavor.
Fold in the dry ingredient mixture gradually, using a spatula to avoid overmixing. This step is crucial in keeping the cake tender and moist.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and gently score the top down the middle, which allows the cake to rise evenly during baking.
Bake for 65-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as every oven varies slightly!
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps set the cake and makes it easier to slice later.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired, adding a touch of elegance to your beautifully baked treat.

Optional: Serve with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Buttery Ube Pound Cake?

When you’re ready to enjoy the sweet comfort of this delightful cake, consider these scrumptious pairings that will elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake, adding a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy a slice topped with a medley of juicy berries for an extra burst of flavor!
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious touch alongside the moist ube flavors. A dollop on the side brings a creamy texture that invites you to indulge.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing makes for a delightful contrast in both temperature and texture. The cold, creamy ice cream complements the cakey warmth, creating a comforting dessert experience.
Coconut Flan: A sweet, rich coconut flan offers a tropical twist that harmonizes beautifully with the nutty notes of ube. This dessert duo will transport your tastebuds to a sunny paradise!
Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a cup of your favorite brew alongside a slice of ube pound cake. The warmth of coffee or the aromatic notes of tea enhance the experience, making it an excellent choice for brunch or afternoon tea.
Lemon Curd: Bright, tangy lemon curd adds a refreshing zing to each bite of cake. Spread a thin layer atop the slice, marrying the flavors in a delightful way that dances on your palate.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a touch of decadence, a warm chocolate drizzle creates an enticing topping that resonates with both children and adults alike. It’s a playful twist that’s sure to impress!
Matcha Latte: Pair your cake with a creamy matcha latte for a delightful contrast of flavors. The earthy notes of matcha create a beautiful balance with the sweetness of the cake, making each bite a delightful exploration.

Buttery Ube Pound Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own—delicious options await!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a cake that everyone can enjoy. Make sure to check proportions for best results!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of sour cream and dairy-free butter for a luscious, vegan-friendly cake. The ube flavor shines through beautifully!
Enhanced Sweetness: Add an extra 1/4 cup of ube halaya into the batter for a more pronounced ube flavor. This makes each bite even more decadent!
Nuts for Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunchy texture. This contrast complements the soft cake wonderfully.
Chocolate Twist: Incorporate 1/3 cup of cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a rich Chocolate Ube Pound Cake. It’s a unique and indulgent fusion!
Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter for a refreshing zing that brightens the ube’s sweetness. The citrus enhances the overall flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Mix in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising hint of heat! This bold twist adds an exciting layer to the flavor.
Fruity Addition: Incorporate 1/2 cup of finely chopped strawberries or blueberries for a burst of fruity flavor and color. They add juicy freshness to each slice!

Make Ahead Options

These Buttery Ube Pound Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This keeps the cake just as delicious as if you baked it fresh on the day of serving. When you’re ready to bake, pour the refrigerated batter into your greased loaf pan and follow the usual baking steps. Remember, for the best results, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before placing it in the oven. This little extra step will ensure that your cake bakes evenly, allowing you to enjoy its moist, buttery texture with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Buttery Ube Pound Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better blending. This helps achieve a smoother batter and contributes to that moist, buttery texture.
Don’t Overmix: When folding in the dry ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, airy Buttery Ube Pound Cake we all desire.
Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness at the 60-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean, but don’t let it dry out—better slightly underbaked than overdone!
Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon with your dry ingredients. It enhances the overall experience without overpowering the ube flavor.
Storage Tips: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze! Just thaw before enjoying.
Presentation Ideas: Elevate your serving by pairing it with a scoop of ice cream or fresh berries. It adds a lovely contrast and makes for a stunning dessert spread!

How to Store and Freeze Buttery Ube Pound Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness and flavor.

Fridge: For longevity, you can keep the cake in the fridge for up to 5 days, but be sure to wrap it well to avoid it drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, slice and microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until heated through, to experience that freshly baked taste again.

Buttery Ube Pound Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ube is ripe or fresh?
When selecting ube, look for a firm texture without any soft spots or dark areas. Fresh ube should have a vibrant purple color and a slightly sweet aroma. If it feels spongy or has dark spots all over, it may be overly ripe.

How should I store the Buttery Ube Pound Cake?
For optimal freshness, store your cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If kept in the fridge, it can last up to 5 days, but make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Buttery Ube Pound Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for added protection. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

What if my cake sinks in the middle?
If your cake sinks, it could be due to several factors. Make sure your oven temperature is accurate; using an oven thermometer can help with that. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as it can introduce too much air, leading to a collapse. Lastly, ensure that the eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Buttery Ube Pound Cake?
This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and dairy. If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a dairy-free yogurt in place of sour cream. Always double-check labels for any other allergens that may affect your guests.

What can I do if my cake is too dense?
If your And make sure to cream the butter and sugar well! Be gentle when folding in dry ingredients—these small steps can make a big difference in the final texture. If your cake is still too dense, it may require a bit more baking powder or less mixing time in the future. Remember, patience is key!