Description
Indulge in this rich and creamy Ube Cheesecake, a delightful Filipino dessert featuring a luscious purple yam filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly baked to achieve a smooth and slightly jiggly center, this cheesecake combines the unique flavor of ube halaya with classic cheesecake ingredients for a vibrant and delectable treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 3 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ube extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Optional topping:
- Whipped cream
- Extra ube halaya
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Add ube halaya, sour cream, and heavy cream into the mixture and blend until smooth and uniform in color.
- Add eggs and flavorings: Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Stir in ube extract, vanilla extract, and all-purpose flour gently until combined without overmixing.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Lightly tap the pan on the countertop to release any trapped air bubbles. Place in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
- Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This slow cooling helps prevent cracks.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set thoroughly.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top with whipped cream and extra ube halaya for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a deeper purple hue, add a few drops of purple food coloring, though this is optional.
- Ube halaya can be purchased at Asian markets or prepared at home.
- Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling.
