Ube Cake Roll Makes an Appearance on Cartoon Network’s ‘Steven Universe’

Growing up on Western cartoons, Filipino representation was rare enough that we’d get excited over even the smallest nods to Asian culture. That’s why stumbling upon an episode of the Cartoon Network hit Steven Universe featuring an ube cake roll still feels like a tiny pop-culture win. Yep, I’m already getting serious cravings just from typing that.

In this ‘Steven Universe ube roll episode’ (or The Good Lars, if you’re looking for the actual title), we see the titular character hanging out with his two friends, Lars Barriga and Sadie Miller. When they get an invite to a potluck party, Lars is determined to come up with the best food to bring.He then gets a eureka moment when Steven suggests baking a cake that represents Lars the most.

Recreating the ube roll on Steven Universe

Image credit: Cartoon Network

As you probably already know, ube is an absolute dessert staple in Filipino cuisine. It often comes in the form of ube jam, though it can also be eaten on its own or added as a special ingredient. 

Image credit (right): Marcin Jucha via Canva Pro

Anyway, if you’d like to whip up the Steven Universe ube roll at home, well, you’re in luck! Chef Andrew Rea does exactly this on his YouTube channel, Binging with Babishi, which has always been known for recreating food from different movies and TV shows. 

More Pinoy representation on this cartoon show

Image credit: Cartoon Network

Beyond the special appearance of our very own ube roll on Steven Universe, did you know that Lars is also half Filipino? Apart from the hint in his last name, there’s also an episode that shows his Filipino dad (pictured above)! 

Also read: 11 Yummy Filipino Desserts We’ll Probably Crave All Summer Long

Yes, I know — where was this cartoon when we were kids?! But hey, better late than never, I guess. 

Apart from this endearing Steven Universe ube roll moment, are there other distinctly Pinoy scenes you enjoyed seeing on Western shows? We’d love to hear about them in the comments!

Featured image credit: Cartoon Network