Ube Basque Cheesecake

Ube Basque Cheesecake is a vibrant and indulgent twist on the classic Spanish burnt cheesecake, incorporating the rich, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor of ube (purple yam). Known for its signature caramelized top and creamy, custard-like interior, Basque cheesecake is already a fan favorite—but the addition of ube takes it to the next level. The natural purple hue from the ube makes this dessert visually stunning, perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping centerpiece. This cheesecake is easy to prepare, requires no crust, and embraces the beauty of imperfection with its signature “burnt” top. Whether you’re an ube enthusiast or new to this beloved Filipino ingredient, this recipe will impress your taste buds and your guests alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ube Basque Cheesecake is a fusion of traditional and modern flavors that come together harmoniously. The earthy sweetness of ube pairs beautifully with the creamy, slightly tangy richness of cream cheese, while the caramelized top adds a hint of smokiness. It’s a versatile dessert that works for casual gatherings or elegant celebrations. The recipe is straightforward, with no water bath or complicated techniques required, making it accessible even for beginner bakers. Plus, its gorgeous purple hue will make it the star of any dessert table.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 55 minutes
• Cooling time: 2 hours
• Total time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g

Ingredients

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup ube halaya (ube jam)
• 1 tsp ube extract (optional, for a deeper purple color and enhanced flavor)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line an 8-inch or 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends at least 2 inches above the edges of the pan. This will give the cheesecake its signature rustic, crinkled look and help prevent any overflow.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs

1. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully combined.

Step 4: Add the Ube Halaya and Flavorings

1. Add the ube halaya, ube extract (if using), vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture. Beat until the ingredients are evenly distributed, and the batter takes on a smooth purple hue.

Step 5: Mix in the Cream and Flour

1. Pour in the heavy cream and mix on low speed until fully incorporated.
2. Sift the all-purpose flour over the batter and gently fold it in using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Transfer the Batter to the Pan

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles.

Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. The top should be deeply browned, almost burnt, while the center remains jiggly.
2. For a darker caramelization, you can broil the top for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch closely to avoid overburning.

Step 8: Cool and Chill

1. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 1 hour.
2. Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow it to fully set and develop its flavors.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and carefully peel away the parchment paper. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat slices.
2. Serve as is, or garnish with whipped cream, toasted coconut, or fresh fruit for an extra touch.

Ingredient Background

Cream Cheese

The base of the cheesecake, cream cheese provides the rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture that defines this dessert.

Ube Halaya

Ube halaya, or ube jam, is made from purple yam, sugar, and milk. It’s a key ingredient that gives this cheesecake its distinct flavor and beautiful purple hue. Look for it in Asian grocery stores or make your own at home.

Ube Extract

While optional, ube extract enhances the ube flavor and deepens the purple color, giving the cheesecake a more vibrant and distinct appearance.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream adds richness and helps create the custard-like texture of the cheesecake.

Flour

A small amount of flour is used to stabilize the batter and ensure the cheesecake holds its shape while maintaining its creamy consistency.

Technique Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and ube halaya are at room temperature for a smooth batter with no lumps.
2. Parchment Lining: Use parchment paper that extends above the edges of the pan to prevent overflow and make removing the cheesecake easier.
3. Avoid Overmixing: Once the flour is added, fold gently to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks in the cheesecake.
4. Monitor Baking Time: The cheesecake should still be jiggly in the center when removed from the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
5. Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the cheesecake to chill ensures the flavors meld together and the texture becomes perfectly creamy.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Ube Basque Cheesecakes: Bake the batter in individual ramekins or muffin tins lined with parchment paper for single-serving portions.
• Layered Cheesecake: Create a two-tone cheesecake by layering plain cheesecake batter with ube batter for a stunning visual effect.
• Tropical Twist: Garnish the cheesecake with toasted coconut flakes and serve with a side of mango puree for a tropical vibe.

Additional Tips for Success

• To enhance the caramelized top, rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.
• Let the cheesecake cool slowly to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming on the surface.
• For an extra creamy texture, use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegan Ube Basque Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and replace eggs with a flaxseed or aquafaba alternative.
2. Ube and Coconut Cheesecake: Add a layer of coconut cream or shredded coconut to complement the ube flavor.
3. Chocolate Ube Cheesecake: Swirl melted dark chocolate into the batter for a rich, chocolatey twist.
4. No-Bake Ube Cheesecake: Prepare the batter without eggs and set the cheesecake in the refrigerator using gelatin or agar-agar.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Make-Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance, as the flavor improves with time.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use reduced-fat cream cheese to lower calories and fat content.
• Replace granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or coconut sugar.
• Incorporate mashed sweet potato as a substitute for ube halaya for a similar flavor profile with added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Brunch Spread: Pair with coffee, tea, and a platter of fresh fruits for a sophisticated brunch.
• Holiday Table: Serve as a unique dessert option during holidays, garnished with whipped cream and edible gold flakes for a festive touch.
• Birthday Parties: Decorate with colorful sprinkles or ube-flavored whipped cream for a celebratory vibe.

Special Equipment

• Springform pan for easy removal
• Hand mixer or stand mixer for smooth batter
• Parchment paper for lining the pan
• Sifter for incorporating flour evenly

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this cheesecake without ube halaya?
While ube halaya is key to the flavor, you can substitute it with mashed purple sweet potatoes and increase the sugar slightly to replicate the sweetness.

2. What if I don’t have a springform pan?
You can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, but you’ll need to carefully lift the cheesecake out once it cools.

3. How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Avoid overmixing the batter and baking for too long. The signature cracks and browning on the top are part of the rustic charm of Basque cheesecake.

4. Can I skip the ube extract?
Yes, but the ube flavor and color will be less pronounced. Ube halaya alone still provides great flavor.

5. What other toppings work well?
Whipped cream, fresh berries, coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce pair wonderfully with this cheesecake.

6. Can I bake this at a lower temperature?
The high temperature is essential for the caramelization that gives Basque cheesecake its burnt top. Baking at a lower temperature will change the texture and appearance.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or cornstarch.

8. How do I get a deeper purple color?
Add a touch of ube extract or gel food coloring to enhance the natural purple hue of the ube.

Conclusion

Ube Basque Cheesecake is a stunning and delicious dessert that combines the earthy sweetness of ube with the creamy indulgence of Basque cheesecake. Its caramelized top, vibrant purple hue, and luscious texture make it a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying this for the first time, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and sure to impress. With simple ingredients, a foolproof method, and endless customization options, this cheesecake is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. So preheat your oven and treat yourself to this one-of-a-kind dessert—you won’t regret it!

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