If you’ve ever found yourself craving a dessert that’s as vibrant in color as it is rich in flavor, then this Ube Cheesecake Recipe is going to be your new best friend. This Filipino-inspired treat takes the creamy decadence of classic cheesecake and elevates it with the delightful sweetness and unique purple hue of ube halaya, or purple yam jam. It’s a showstopper not just for its stunning appearance but for the luscious texture and subtle tropical notes that make every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re already a fan of ube or curious about trying something new, this cheesecake will win your heart and your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing an unforgettable Ube Cheesecake Recipe isn’t complicated; it’s all about combining fresh, simple ingredients that come together in harmony to give you that perfect balance of flavor, color, and texture. Each item plays a crucial role, from the buttery crust to the creamy and vibrant filling.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These provide a buttery, crunchy base that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake.
- Granulated sugar: Divided use balances sweetness in both the crust and filling for that comforting dessert flavor.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness to the graham cracker crust while helping it set firmly.
- Cream cheese, softened: The essential creamy component giving the cheesecake its signature smooth texture.
- Ube halaya (ube jam): Brings the unmistakable purple yam flavor and that gorgeous vibrant color.
- Coconut cream: Adds subtle tropical richness that harmonizes beautifully with the ube flavor.
- Large eggs, room temperature: Help provide structure while keeping the cheesecake smooth and tender.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances and rounds out the overall flavor profile.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and brightens the other flavors.
- All-purpose flour: Gives just the right amount of stability to the cheesecake without compromising creaminess.
How to Make Ube Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with half a cup of sugar and the melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. This step is crucial because a well-packed crust will hold together nicely after baking. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Ube Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy—this ensures a silky cheesecake texture. Gradually add one cup of sugar and mix until combined. Next, blend in the ube halaya and coconut cream until the mixture turns a lovely, even purple hue and is perfectly smooth. This is what gives the cheesecake its iconic flavor and stunning color.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition to maintain that creamy texture without over-beating. Then stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and the flour just until everything is incorporated. This delicate mixing helps keep your cheesecake dense and creamy without cracks.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the luscious ube cheesecake filling over your cooled crust and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle—this ensures a creamy interior after chilling. When done, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and leave the cheesecake inside to cool gently for one hour, preventing cracks from sudden temperature changes.
Step 5: Chill and Set
After the initial cooling, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up perfectly, making it easier to slice neat, gorgeous pieces that will impress everyone.
How to Serve Ube Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can really make your Ube Cheesecake Recipe feel special and festive. Consider a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra creaminess, or sprinkle toasted coconut flakes to enhance the tropical flavors and add a wonderful crunch. Fresh berries or edible flowers can also add a lovely contrast in both color and taste.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing sides to balance its richness. Try serving with a small bowl of fresh fruit salad featuring mango, pineapple, and berries, or a crisp, citrusy sorbet to cleanse the palate. A hot cup of jasmine tea or a creamy coconut latte complements the tropical notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to take your presentation to the next level, slice the cheesecake into smaller individual portions and serve them as mini tarts or cupcakes adorned with a swirl of ube-infused frosting or coconut cream. For a stunning visual, drizzle a bit of coconut caramel sauce over each slice, or create a layered trifle using cheesecake chunks, ube jam, and whipped cream in glass jars for a delightful party treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is always a happy problem to have), store your Ube Cheesecake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly covered, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy a slice whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes well, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to one month. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator so it retains its creamy texture and vibrant color.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the texture to become grainy or oily.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ube instead of ube halaya?
Fresh ube can be used but it requires cooking and mashing before adding to the recipe, which takes extra time and skill. Ube halaya is convenient, pre-cooked, and offers consistent sweetness and texture perfect for this cheesecake.
What can I substitute for coconut cream?
If you don’t have coconut cream, full-fat coconut milk can work in a pinch but may make the filling slightly less rich. For a non-coconut alternative, try heavy cream, though it won’t contribute that subtle tropical flavor.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
To avoid cracks, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature and don’t overmix after adding eggs. Cooling the cheesecake gently by leaving it in the oven with the door cracked helps as well.
Is this cheesecake gluten-free?
The crust contains graham cracker crumbs, which usually have gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free graham crackers or almond meal crust.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
This traditional recipe uses dairy and eggs, but vegan versions are possible by using plant-based cream cheese, coconut cream, and egg substitutes. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be different, but still delicious!
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Ube Cheesecake Recipe a try—it’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite that brings a burst of color and flavor to your dessert table. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, the creamy, vibrant layers of this cheesecake will surely brighten your day and impress everyone lucky enough to have a slice. Happy baking, and enjoy every indulgent bite!
Print
Ube Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Filipino-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delicious Ube Cheesecake features a creamy, vibrant purple yam-infused filling set atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Combining traditional Filipino ube halaya with classic cheesecake ingredients, this baked dessert offers a smooth, luscious texture and a subtly sweet flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup ube halaya (ube jam)
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once baked, remove the crust from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and mix until well combined. Blend in the ube halaya and coconut cream until the mixture is smooth and uniformly colored.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, mixing on low speed after each addition to prevent overmixing. Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and all-purpose flour just until everything is incorporated; avoid overmixing.
- Assemble and Bake Cheesecake: Pour the prepared filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top evenly. Bake in the oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly to the touch.
- Cool Cheesecake: After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to avoid cracking and ensure even cooling.
- Chill Before Serving: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This resting period allows the cheesecake to set fully and enhances the flavor before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, creamy batter.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once the eggs are added to prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface.
- For extra flavor and a decorative touch, top the cheesecake with whipped cream or toasted coconut before serving.
