Give your cheesecake a vibrant twist with the exotic flavors of ube, a purple yam that adds a stunning color and unique flavor to this creamy dessert. This Ube Cheesecake is a rich combination of velvety cream cheese, sweet ube halaya, and a hint of coconut for tropical flair. Perfect for special occasions or as a standout centerpiece, this dessert will captivate everyone at first bite.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 32 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 large eggs
- ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ube extract
- ½ cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- ½ cup coconut flakes, toasted
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sour cream, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the ube extract, ube halaya, and salt, and mix until the batter is smooth and evenly purple.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 60–70 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually.
Step 4: Chill and Decorate
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Before serving, sprinkle the top with toasted coconut flakes and dust with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Conclusion
This Velvety Ube Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the unique and vibrant flavors of ube. The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch, while the coconut topping enhances its tropical appeal. Perfect for both ube enthusiasts and cheesecake lovers, this dessert is sure to impress at any gathering. Slice in, and enjoy the magic of ube!
