Moist Ube Cupcake Recipe (No Oven Needed!) Recipe

If you’re looking for a super easy, delightfully purple treat that absolutely anyone can make at home (with or without an oven!), you have to try this Moist Ube Cupcake Recipe (No Oven Needed!). This is one of those desserts that instantly grabs attention with its vibrant color, then seals the deal with a silky-soft, moist crumb and the irresistible earthiness of real ube flavor—no special baking equipment required. It’s a go-to whenever I want to impress friends, treat my family, or whip up something special for merienda. Let’s get baking—or steaming!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what’s great about these cupcakes: you don’t need rare or complicated ingredients, just a handful of staples and a dash of ube flavor magic. Each item on this list plays a meaningful role, delivering the texture, aroma, and signature color that make this Moist Ube Cupcake Recipe (No Oven Needed!) truly memorable.

• All-Purpose Flour: Gives the cupcakes their structure and keeps the crumb tender.
• Sugar: Sweetens up the batter and helps keep the cupcakes moist even after cooling.
• Baking Powder: Makes the cupcakes rise beautifully and turn out light and fluffy.
• Salt: Just a pinch brightens and balances all the sweet, creamy flavors.
• Eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds richness for a bouncy, luscious crumb.
• Evaporated Milk: Adds a creamy depth that sets these cupcakes apart from the usual.
• Canola or Vegetable Oil: This is the key to super-moist, never-dry cupcakes—it stays soft even after a day or two!
• Ube Flavoring: The star of the show—gives you that vibrant purple color and signature sweet, nutty ube taste.

How to Make Moist Ube Cupcake Recipe (No Oven Needed!)

Step 1: Prep the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together your flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This simple step ensures even distribution of leavening agents and prevents any unwanted clumps in the final batter. Set aside for now—you’ll need it in a minute!

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate mixing bowl, beat your eggs lightly until combined. Pour in the evaporated milk (or the milk-water combo), oil, sugar, and that gorgeous ube flavoring. Give it a good stir until everything is fully blended and the sugar has mostly dissolved—the mixture will already start to glow that iconic purple.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

Now comes the fun part. Sift the dry ingredients gradually into the wet mixture, stirring gently as you go. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix—the goal is a smooth, even batter without overworking the flour, which would make the cupcakes dense instead of light and lovely.

Step 4: Prepare the Molds

Line your cupcake pan or silicone molds with cupcake liners for easy removal and a pop of color. Fill each one about ¾ full with the ube batter to give them plenty of space to rise. Don’t worry if they look a little bright right now—the color intensifies beautifully as they cook!

Step 5: Cooking Options

This is where the Moist Ube Cupcake Recipe (No Oven Needed!) really shines: you can bake these in a regular oven, or steam them if you don’t have one! Either way, you’ll end up with cupcakes that are soft, fluffy, and moist. For the oven, preheat to 150°C (300°F), and bake for 14–18 minutes. If steaming, arrange the filled liners in a steamer basket, cover, and steam for 12–15 minutes over medium heat.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

To make sure your cupcakes are perfectly done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are fine, but no raw batter), they’re ready! This test works for both cooking methods, bringing a bit of science to your kitchen magic.

Step 7: Cool & Decorate

Let the cupcakes cool completely on a rack before you think about frosting or toppings. They’re honestly so moist and flavorful that they’re delicious plain, but if you’re in the mood to get fancy, now’s the time to pipe on a swirl of frosting or add a sprinkle of toppings!

How to Serve Moist Ube Cupcake Recipe (No Oven Needed!)

Garnishes

The perfect finishing touch? Try topping your cupcakes with a swirl of whipped cream cheese frosting, a shower of toasted coconut flakes, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Not only does this add visual flair, it also brings out the luxurious flavors and makes each bite feel extra festive.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a tall glass of iced milk tea, a mug of hot chocolate, or even a strong brewed coffee. For a more Filipino-inspired merienda, serve them alongside fresh fruit or classic sticky rice sweets—the contrast in flavors and textures makes for an irresistibly sharable spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties and celebrations, arrange your Moist Ube Cupcake Recipe (No Oven Needed!) on a pretty two-tiered cake stand or tuck them into clear treat boxes with colorful ribbons for gifts. If you’re serving a crowd, try topping each cupcake with a mini flag or fun topper to celebrate any occasion, from birthdays to holidays.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cupcakes? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to five. They’ll stay wonderfully soft and moist, making them a delicious snack whenever the craving hits.

Freezing

If you want to keep cupcakes on hand for longer, you can absolutely freeze them (unfrosted works best). Simply wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap, tuck them into a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To refresh leftover or frozen cupcakes, unwrap and microwave them for 10–15 seconds per cupcake. This brings back some of that just-baked softness so every bite of the Moist Ube Cupcake Recipe (No Oven Needed!) feels bakery-fresh again. If frosted, keep the heating gentle to avoid melting your beautiful toppers!

FAQs

Can I use fresh ube instead of ube flavoring?

Absolutely! If you have access to fresh or frozen ube (purple yam), you can mash and mix about 1/2 cup into the batter. Still add a touch of ube flavoring for color and aroma, though, as fresh ube is more subtle in taste.

What’s the best oil to ensure the cupcakes stay moist?

Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil work wonderfully because they don’t overpower the delicate ube flavor, and they lock in moisture better than butter—which is so important for the Moist Ube Cupcake Recipe (No Oven Needed!).

Can I steam the cupcakes without cupcake liners?

Yes, you can use well-greased silicone molds if you don’t have liners on hand. Just be sure to cool them completely before trying to remove, as they’re especially tender when warm.

How do I make these vegan?

Substitute the eggs with 1/4 cup applesauce per egg, and use non-dairy evaporated milk or coconut milk. The cupcakes will still be rich, vibrant, and uniquely delicious!

Is it possible to make a layered cake version?

Definitely—just double the recipe, grease and line round cake pans, and steam or bake for a bit longer (keep an eye on doneness). Frost with your favorite ube or cream cheese frosting for a stunning centerpiece!

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve tasted how tender, vibrant, and surprisingly easy this Moist Ube Cupcake Recipe (No Oven Needed!) is, you’ll want to make it part of every celebration—or any day when you’re craving something special. Don’t let the lack of an oven stop you from enjoying bakery-level homemade cupcakes. Give them a try, share them with loved ones, and watch them disappear in no time!