A new colourful drink trend is taking over social feeds. Following the pistachio craze, vibrant purple drinks inspired by ube are popping up everywhere - from coffee shops to TikTok.
The “ube trend” refers to the global rise in popularity of ube (pronounced oo-beh), a bright purple yam from the Philippines. Ube has long been a staple in Filipino desserts such as ube halaya, halo-halo, cakes, and breads. Its deep violet colour comes naturally from anthocyanins; the same antioxidants found in blueberries.
Today, ube is showing up in lattes, pastries, ice cream, cocktails, breads, and even savoury dishes. The trend is fuelled by its striking natural colour, social‑media appeal, and its sweet, vanilla‑nutty flavour.
Sweet, slightly nutty, vanilla‑like, and delicately earthy — ube has a flavour that stands out without being overpowering.
Ube is naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and potassium, adding a “better‑for‑you” halo to indulgent treats.
It works beautifully in both drinks and desserts — think ube lattes, ice creams, cheesecakes, doughnuts, and more.
Its vivid purple colour is instantly eye‑catching, making it perfect for Instagram, TikTok, and café menus.
Filipino chefs, bakers, and creators have brought ube into mainstream food culture across the US, UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
How to make a DIY Purple “Ube-Inspired” Iced Latte
Creamy, colourful and perfect for summer, this trend-inspired iced drink is ideal for cooling down and levelling up your coffee break.
- Serves: 2
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep time: 10 mins
What you'll need:
For the drink
- 2 cups milk
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 2 tbsp blueberry syrup
- 2 tbsp vanilla milkshake powder
- 1–2 drops purple food colouring
- Ice cubes
Optional extras
- Whipped cream
- Purple sprinkles
- Tapioca pearls
- White chocolate shavings
Method:
- Fill two glasses with ice cubes.
- Add the milk, vanilla ice cream, blueberry syrup and milkshake powder to a blender.
- Add 1–2 drops of purple food colouring and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour over the ice.
- Top with whipped cream or sprinkles if desired and serve immediately.
Top tip: Want a coffee-shop twist? Add a shot of espresso for a purple iced latte version.
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