Ube Cheesecake Recipe: Vibrant and Creamy Delight

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious, this Ube Cheesecake recipe is the one for you. With its vibrant purple hue and creamy texture, this cheesecake is a showstopper that combines the earthy sweetness of ube with the richness of classic cheesecake.

Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or indulging in a weekend baking project, this dessert brings a unique twist to the traditional cheesecake.

Packed with the flavor of ube halaya and complemented by a buttery graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is sure to impress both in taste and appearance.

Let’s dive into the steps to create this unforgettable ube cheesecake.

What Is Ube Cheesecake?

Ube Cheesecake is a delightful fusion dessert that combines the velvety texture of cheesecake with the distinct flavor and vibrant color of ube, also known as purple yam.

Ube, a staple ingredient in Filipino desserts, adds a nutty and subtly sweet flavor to the cheesecake.

The dessert is typically made with ube halaya (ube jam) or ube extract to infuse both color and flavor into the creamy cheesecake filling.

Ingredients for Ube Cheesecake

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Filling:

• 3 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup ube halaya (ube jam)
• 1 teaspoon ube extract

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Ube halaya drizzle
• Toasted coconut flakes

Optional Additions

• Crushed nuts: Sprinkle crushed macadamia or cashew nuts on top for added texture.
• Chocolate drizzle: Add a drizzle of dark chocolate for a decadent finish.
• Shredded coconut: Toasted coconut adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free alternative.
• Low-Sugar Version: Substitute sugar with a low-calorie sweetener like erythritol.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace cream cheese with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Divide the filling into a muffin tin for individual servings.

Recipe Instructions to Make Ube Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the surface.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Ube Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract, ube halaya, and ube extract until fully incorporated, ensuring the batter is smooth and evenly colored.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour the ube cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the cheesecake in a water bath to ensure even cooking and prevent cracks.
2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
3. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Remove the springform pan and transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate.
3. Garnish with whipped cream, ube halaya, or your favorite toppings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbeating the Batter: This can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks. Mix until just combined.
2. Skipping the Water Bath: A water bath ensures even cooking and prevents the cheesecake from drying out.
3. Not Chilling Long Enough: Allow the cheesecake to chill for at least 4 hours for the best texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Serve the cheesecake on a white platter to highlight its vibrant purple color.
• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of ube halaya for added visual appeal.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh ube instead of ube halaya?
Yes, you can use fresh ube, but you’ll need to cook and mash it into a smooth paste before incorporating it into the filling.

2. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Using a water bath, not overbeating the batter, and letting the cheesecake cool gradually will help prevent cracks.

3. Can I freeze ube cheesecake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

4. Is ube extract necessary?
While not essential, ube extract enhances the color and flavor of the cheesecake, making it more vibrant and authentic.

Conclusion

Ube Cheesecake is a delightful blend of classic cheesecake richness and the unique flavor of ube.

Its stunning appearance and irresistible taste make it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Whether you’re new to ube or a longtime fan, this recipe is a must-try for creating a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.