ube cheesecake recipe

Ube Cheesecake Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Filipino Delight

 

As the popularity of Filipino desserts continues to rise, it’s no surprise that ube cheesecake has become a staple in many modern bakeries and home kitchens. This velvety, creamy, and rich dessert is a game-changer, offering a unique and exotic flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional cheesecake recipes. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of ube cheesecake, exploring the ingredients, step-by-step guide, variations, and tips for success. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

 

Ube Cheesecake Recipe: Ingredients

 

To create the perfect ube cheesecake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

 

• • 1 1/2 cups (190g) graham cracker crumbs

 

• • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar

 

• • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

 

• • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened

 

• • 1/2 cup (115g) granulated sugar

 

• • 4 large eggs, separated

 

• • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

 

• • 1 cup (240ml) ube halaya (ube jam or purple yam jam)

 

• • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

 

• • 1/2 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar

 

• • 1/4 teaspoon salt

 

• • 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pecans (optional)

 

 

Ube Cheesecake Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

 

Preparing the Crust:

 

1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

 

1. 1. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.

 

1. 1. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.

 

1. 1. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Let it cool completely.

 

 

Preparing the Cheesecake:

 

1. 1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.

 

1. 1. Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until combined.

 

1. 1. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

 

1. 1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ube halaya, heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.

 

1. 1. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined.

 

1. 1. Pour the batter into the prepared crust.

 

1. 1. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

 

1. 1. Let the cheesecake cool in the pan for 1 hour, then run a knife around the edges to release it.

 

1. 1. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

 

 

Variations of Ube Cheesecake Recipe

 

1. 1. Salted Caramel Swirl: Drizzle a salted caramel sauce over the batter before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.

 

1. 1. Pandan Leaf Infusion: Infuse the cheesecake with the subtle flavor of pandan leaves by adding 1/4 cup (15g) of chopped fresh pandan leaves to the batter.

 

1. 1. Lime and Coconut: Add 2 tablespoons (30g) of freshly squeezed lime juice and 1/4 cup (30g) of shredded coconut to the batter for a tangy and tropical twist.

 

1. 1. Chocolate Chip: Add 1/2 cup (60g) of dark chocolate chips to the batter for a rich and indulgent treat.

 

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

 

• • Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense and tough cheesecake.

 

• • Make sure to press the crust into the pan evenly to avoid a crumbly crust.

 

• • Don’t open the oven door during the baking time, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack.

 

 

Storing and Freezing Ube Cheesecake Recipe

 

• • Store the cooled cheesecake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

 

• • Freeze the cooled cheesecake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature or for 2 hours at 300°F (150°C).

 

 

Nutritional Information (per serving)

 

• • Calories: 320

 

• • Fat: 22g

 

• • Carbohydrates: 25g

 

• • Fiber: 2g

 

• • Protein: 10g

 

• • Cholesterol: 60mg

 

 

Ube Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

 

Q: What is ube halaya, and where can I find it?
A: Ube halaya is purple yam jam, commonly used in Filipino desserts. You can find it in most Asian grocery stores or online.

 

Q: Can I substitute the ube halaya with another type of jam or puree?
A: Yes, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different. Try using a combination of ingredients like jackfruit or coconut to achieve a similar sweetness and texture.

 

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply replace the graham cracker crust with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or rice flour.

 

Conclusion

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the world of ube cheesecake, covering ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, and common mistakes to avoid. With this recipe, you’ll be well-equipped to create a delicious and unique dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make this recipe your own. Try this recipe and share your results!