The Best Ube Cheesecake

INTRODUCTION

When you think of desserts that are creamy, sweet, and full of flavor, cheesecake often comes to mind. But have you ever tried a twist on the classic recipe? The Best Ube Cheesecake is a delightful way to enjoy cheesecake like never before. This recipe brings the beautiful purple yam known as ube into the mix, giving it a unique look and taste. Ube is popular in many Asian desserts, and it adds a vibrant color and a rich flavor to your cheesecake. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this ube cheesecake will impress everyone.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

The Best Ube Cheesecake stands out for many reasons. First, its flavor is simply out of this world. The combination of cream cheese, sweet ube, and a hint of coconut creates a beautiful harmony in taste. The creamy texture melts in your mouth, making each bite enjoyable. Secondly, the pop of purple from the ube makes this dessert visually appealing. It will surely grab attention on any dessert table.

Additionally, making this cheesecake can be a fun activity. It is very straightforward, and you don’t need any fancy tools or techniques. Plus, this recipe allows you to show off your baking skills, impressing family and friends. Finally, the best part? You can make it ahead of time. It only gets better after chilling in the fridge, letting the flavors meld beautifully. All of these reasons make The Best Ube Cheesecake a must-try!

HOW TO MAKE UBE CHEESECAKE

Making The Best Ube Cheesecake is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious cheesecake ready to enjoy.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you start, make sure you have the following equipment:

• 9-inch springform pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Roasting pan for a water bath

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• Pinch of salt
• 2 (8-oz) blocks cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (may need more)
• 5 oz ube jam, room temperature
• 3/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 tsp ube extract
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 (14-oz) can coconut cream, chilled
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and set it aside.

2. In a medium bowl, combine all the crust ingredients: graham cracker crumbs, sweetened shredded coconut, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is evenly moist.

3. Transfer the crust mixture to the prepared springform pan. Press it tightly to form a solid base. Set it aside.

4. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium/high speed until it is fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Add 1/2 cup sugar to the cream cheese and continue mixing for another 2 minutes.

6. Next, mix in the 5 oz of ube jam and 3/4 cup sour cream until smooth.

7. Add 1 tsp of vanilla extract and 3 tsp of ube extract. Stir until everything is well combined.

8. Taste the batter. If you want it sweeter, feel free to add more sugar.

9. Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, beating just until combined after each addition.

10. Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Tap gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

11. Place the pan on the middle oven rack. On the bottom rack, place a roasting pan filled with hot water. This will help keep your cheesecake moist while baking.

12. Bake for 30 minutes at 325°F. After that, lower the temperature to 300°F and bake for another 30 minutes, or until set.

13. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for another hour. This helps it cool down gradually.

14. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven. Run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen it.

15. Chill in the fridge for 6-8 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors develop.

16. For the coconut whipped cream, use the solid parts of the chilled coconut cream. Beat it with 2 tbsp sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

17. Serve the cheesecake with coconut whipped cream on top and sprinkle with shredded coconut.

HOW TO SERVE UBE CHEESECAKE

When serving The Best Ube Cheesecake, presentation matters. Slice it into wedges and place each piece on a dessert plate. For an extra touch, add a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top. You can also sprinkle some shredded coconut over the whipped cream for a beautiful appearance. This cheesecake pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect dessert for any gathering.

STORAGE & FREEZING: UBE CHEESECAKE

To keep your ube cheesecake fresh, store it in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other smells in the fridge. It can last up to a week if stored properly. If you want to keep it for a longer time, consider freezing it. To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

The Best Ube Cheesecake can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some fun serving suggestions:

• Add fresh fruits like strawberries or mango slices on top for a fruity burst.
• Drizzle some chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for a decadent touch.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra creamy experience.

VARIATIONS

You can customize The Best Ube Cheesecake in several ways:

• Chocolate Ube Cheesecake: Add melted chocolate to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
• Mixed Flavors: Combine ube with other flavors like matcha or pandan for an interesting flavor mix.
• Nutty Crust: Instead of graham crackers, use crushed nuts with the shredded coconut for a different texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh ube instead of ube jam?
   Yes, you can use cooked and mashed fresh ube. However, the taste and texture may vary slightly.

2. What can I do if my cheesecake cracks?
   If your cheesecake cracks, don’t worry; it still tastes great! To prevent this, make sure to bake it slowly and avoid opening the oven door often.

3. Is ube cheesecake gluten-free?
   The cheesecake itself is gluten-free if you use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

4. Can I make this cheesecake without coconut?
   Yes, if you’re not a coconut fan, you can skip the shredded coconut and coconut cream. Just use regular whipped cream instead.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR UBE CHEESECAKE

Making The Best Ube Cheesecake ahead of time is a great idea. It actually tastes even better after chilling overnight. You can prepare the cheesecake a day in advance and let it sit in the fridge. Just remember to make the coconut whipped cream right before serving so it stays fresh and fluffy. This way, you can enjoy your time with family and friends without stressing about dessert on the day of your event!

Making The Best Ube Cheesecake can be a new tradition in your home. With its rich flavor and stunning color, it will surely become a favorite for everyone. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat!

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