The smell of warm, fragrant waffles filled the air as I hurried into the kitchen. My niece, Leilani, was already standing on a stool, eagerly watching me pour the batter onto the hot waffle iron. “Auntie, can I help?” she asked excitedly. I couldn’t resist her pleading eyes, so I handed her the small whisk and let her stir in the ube puree. As the waffles sizzled to a perfect golden-brown, Leilani’s eyes widened with delight. “They look just like the ones we had at the luau!” she exclaimed. In that moment, I knew these Ube Mochi Waffles would become a new family favorite.
Why This Ube Mochi Waffles Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Ube Mochi Waffles
There’s something truly special about Ube Mochi Waffles. The combination of the chewy, slightly sweet mochiko flour and the vibrant ube puree creates a unique texture and flavor that you simply can’t find in a traditional waffle. The secret is in the way the ingredients work together – the mochiko flour provides that signature mochi-like chewiness, while the all-purpose flour gives the waffles structure and crispness. And of course, the ube puree lends that unmistakable purple hue and delightful flavor that transports you straight to the islands.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delectable Ube Mochi Waffles, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 1 cup mochiko (sweet rice flour): This is the star of the show, providing that irresistible chewy texture.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The perfect complement to the mochiko, adding structure and a crisp exterior.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the ube flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the waffles rise to fluffy perfection.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents blandness.
- 3/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
- 1/4 cup ube puree: The vibrant purple hue and distinctive ube taste that makes these waffles so unique.
- 2 eggs: Binds the batter together and contributes to the light, airy texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds a lovely buttery richness.
Step-by-Step Ube Mochi Waffles Instructions
Preparing Your Ube Mochi Waffles
With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, these Ube Mochi Waffles come together in a snap. All you’ll need is a waffle iron, a mixing bowl, and a few essential kitchen tools. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by preheating your waffle iron to the desired temperature. While it’s heating up, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mochiko, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2- In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, ube puree, eggs, and melted butter until smooth and fully incorporated. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, using a spatula to gently fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3- Once the waffle iron is hot, lightly grease the surface and scoop the batter onto the center of the iron, using about 1/3 cup per waffle. Close the lid and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the waffles are golden-brown and crisp on the outside.
4- Use a fork or tongs to carefully remove the cooked waffles from the iron. They should be beautifully puffed up, with a delightful purple hue and a delicate, chewy texture.
5- As you continue cooking the remaining batter, keep the cooked waffles warm in a 200°F oven to maintain their crisp exterior.
6- Once all the waffles are cooked, serve them hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy this taste of the islands in your own kitchen!
Pro Tips for Success
1- Be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to tough, dense waffles. Fold the wet and dry ingredients together gently, just until combined.
2- For extra fluffy waffles, separate the egg whites and whip them to soft peaks before folding them into the batter.
3- Use a high-quality ube puree for the most vibrant color and authentic flavor. Avoid using artificial ube flavoring, as it can taste artificial.
4- Preheat your waffle iron thoroughly and lightly grease it between batches to ensure the waffles release easily.
5- Let the cooked waffles rest on a wire rack or in a warm oven to help maintain their crisp texture.
Serving and Storing Your Ube Mochi Waffles
Perfect Pairings for Ube Mochi Waffles
These Ube Mochi Waffles are a true delight, serving 6 people. For a truly indulgent breakfast or brunch, pair them with a refreshing glass of tropical fruit juice or a creamy coconut milk latte. The sweetness of the waffles also pairs beautifully with a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt or a drizzle of warm, golden honey. And for a fun twist, try topping them with toasted coconut flakes, chopped macadamia nuts, or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Fortunately, these Ube Mochi Waffles are easy to make ahead and store for later. Once cooled, the cooked waffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a toaster oven or preheated 350°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through and crisp.
For longer-term storage, the waffles can also be frozen. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen waffles in a toaster oven or oven until warmed through.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Ube Mochi Waffles
Creative Ube Mochi Waffles Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on these Ube Mochi Waffles. Try folding in chopped fresh pineapple or mango for a tropical twist, or swirling in a tablespoon of creamy ube halaya (ube jam) for an extra hit of ube flavor. For a seasonal variation, fold in a handful of toasted coconut flakes or chopped macadamia nuts.
Making Ube Mochi Waffles Diet-Friendly
Looking to make these waffles a bit more diet-friendly? No problem! For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of your favorite gluten-free flour blend. To make them vegan, replace the eggs with a flax or chia egg, and use plant-based milk and melted coconut oil instead of the butter. And for a lower-carb take, you can swap the mochiko for almond flour or a keto-friendly flour blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of flour instead of the mochiko?
A: While you can experiment with different flours, the mochiko is really what gives these waffles their signature chewy, mochi-like texture. Substituting it may result in a different, less authentic final product.
Q: How long does the batter take to prepare?
A: The batter for these Ube Mochi Waffles comes together quickly, with a total prep time of just 15 minutes. The key is to gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
Q: Can I make the waffles ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The cooked waffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Simply reheat them in a toaster oven or regular oven before serving.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe for Ube Mochi Waffles yields 6 servings. The recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd.
Q: What if my waffles come out dense or chewy?
A: If your Ube Mochi Waffles turn out too dense or chewy, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. Be sure to fold the ingredients together gently, just until combined. You can also try separating the egg whites and whipping them to soft peaks before folding them in for extra fluffiness.
Ube Mochi Waffles
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the heavenly fusion of ube and mochi in these delectable waffles! Perfectly fluffy, vibrant purple, and bursting with sweet flavors, these Ube Mochi Waffles are a unique and irresistible breakfast treat.
Ingredients
– 1 cup mochiko (sweet rice flour)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup ube puree
– 2 eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mochiko, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, ube puree, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Heat a waffle iron and coat with non-stick cooking spray. Scoop the batter onto the hot waffle iron, using about 1/2 cup of batter per waffle.
5. Cook the waffles for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve the Ube Mochi Waffles warm, with your favorite toppings such as fresh berries, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
For best results, use fresh or canned ube puree. You can also substitute with sweet potato puree if ube is not available. The mochiko flour gives these waffles a wonderfully chewy texture.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian, American
Conclusion
These Ube Mochi Waffles are a true taste of the islands, bringing the vibrant flavor and irresistible texture of ube straight to your kitchen. With their unique mochi-like chewiness and stunning purple hue, they’re sure to become a new family favorite. So what are you waiting for? Grab your waffle iron and get ready to indulge in a little tropical bliss. Be sure to share your creations with me – I’d love to see how your Ube Mochi Waffles turn out!
