Ube Cheesecake Recipe: The Best Creamy Filipino-Inspired Dessert

If you’ve ever spotted a vibrant purple dessert and wondered what it was, chances are it was ube. This Filipino purple yam has taken the dessert world by storm—and in the form of ube cheesecake, it’s the ultimate fusion of rich creaminess and sweet earthy flavor. In this article, you’ll learn how to make an ube cheesecake recipe from scratch, with step-by-step guidance, expert baking tips, and topping variations. We’ll dive into the ingredients, how to prevent cracks, and the difference between ube halaya and ube jam. Whether you’re new to Filipino desserts or a longtime fan, this guide will help you bake a flawless cheesecake every time.

Ube Cheesecake Recipe

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Try this creamy ube cheesecake recipe with Filipino flavors and simple steps. Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime sweet cravings.

• Author: eppicrecipes.com
• Prep Time: PT40M
• Cook Time: PT1H15M
• Total Time: PT7H40M
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Filipino-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 907g (4 packs) full-fat cream cheese, softened

• 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup ube halaya jam

• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream

• 1 tbsp ube extract

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1/4 tsp salt

• For Whipped Topping

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1 tsp ube extract

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 325°F.

• Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.

• Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add sugar and beat again.

• Mix in ube halaya, sour cream, and ube extract.

• Add eggs one at a time. Add salt and stir gently.

• Pour batter into crust.

• Wrap pan in foil and place in a water bath.

• Bake for 60–75 minutes. Turn off oven and let cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour.

• Cool on counter, then refrigerate at least 6 hours.

 

• Prepare ube whipped cream and pipe on top before serving.

Notes

– Always use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a rich, smooth texture.

– Let all ingredients reach room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps.

– Do not overmix after adding eggs—this can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.

– Use a water bath to ensure even baking and a crack-free top.

– Chill the cheesecake for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, for best results.

– Ube halaya can be homemade or store-bought, but look for one with a thick, jam-like consistency.

– Ube extract enhances both the color and flavor—don’t skip it if you want that classic vibrant purple hue.

– This dessert freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze whole or by slice for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 125mg

Introduction to Ube Cheesecake

What is Ube and Why It’s Perfect for Cheesecake

Ube (pronounced “oo-beh”) is a purple yam that originates from the Philippines and is beloved for its subtle sweetness and nutty, vanilla-like undertones. Its naturally vibrant color and velvety texture make it a dream ingredient for desserts—especially cheesecake. Unlike artificial coloring, ube delivers both color and flavor, enhancing the richness of a traditional cheesecake with a unique tropical twist.

When used in cheesecake, ube creates a beautiful contrast—both in flavor and visual appeal. The creamy texture of the cheesecake balances the slightly grainy texture of mashed ube or ube halaya, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Origins of Ube Cheesecake and Its Cultural Roots

While cheesecake itself is a Western favorite, ube cheesecake is a delightful hybrid that reflects the cultural blending of Filipino and American dessert traditions. Traditionally, ube has been used in Filipino favorites like halaya, puto, and halo-halo. With the rise of fusion cuisine, Filipino bakers began incorporating ube into cheesecakes to create a show-stopping centerpiece that blends comfort with creativity.

This twist on the classic cheesecake is often seen during the holidays, birthdays, and family gatherings across Filipino-American homes—and it’s gaining popularity worldwide.

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out from Traditional Cheesecakes

There are dozens of cheesecake recipes out there, but ube cheesecake stands out for several reasons:

• Color: The vibrant purple hue is naturally derived and visually striking.
• Flavor Depth: Ube brings earthy, nutty notes unlike any other flavor.
• Versatility: It can be baked, served in jars, made no-bake style, or layered with other tropical fruits.
• Cultural Connection: It tells a story through flavor, bridging Filipino heritage and modern baking techniques.

Check out our Best Tiramisu Recipe for another creative twist on a classic dessert.

Key Ingredients for the Best Ube Cheesecake Recipe

Essential Ingredients Breakdown: Cream Cheese, Ube Halaya, and More

To create the most flavorful and creamy ube cheesecake recipe, you need high-quality, full-fat ingredients. Here’s a quick ingredient checklist and why each one matters:

Want to try creamy recipes with a twist? Discover our Easy Madeleine Cookies Using Cream.

Choosing Between Fresh Ube, Frozen Ube, and Ube Jam

• Fresh Ube: Ideal, but difficult to find in the U.S. Must be steamed and mashed before use.
• Frozen Ube: A great alternative—available in many Asian grocery stores. Just thaw and mash.
• Ube Halaya (Purple Yam Jam): Most accessible. Often sweetened and cooked down already. Perfect for cheesecakes.

Tip: Avoid ube powder unless it’s your only option. It tends to deliver less flavor and may alter texture.

Top Ube Extract Brands and Their Flavor Impact

Because ube’s flavor is subtle, ube extract plays a key role in enhancing both color and taste. Here are some popular extract brands:

A good extract gives your ube cheesecake a consistent hue without overpowering the natural yam flavor. Be cautious—some extracts are artificially flavored. Always check labels.

Pro Tip: Combine both ube halaya and extract to create the ideal flavor-and-color combo for your cheesecake batter.

Looking for something unique? Don’t miss our Super Moist Carrot Bundt Cake—another vibrant dessert for special occasions.

Preparing the Graham Cracker Crust

Classic Graham Cracker Crust vs. Digestive Biscuit Crust

No matter how fancy your cheesecake filling is, a weak crust can ruin it. That’s why getting your base right matters. For ube cheesecake, two types of crusts shine:

• Graham Cracker Crust: A classic choice in American baking—slightly sweet, crisp, and toasty.
• Digestive Biscuit Crust: A British alternative that adds a nuttier and richer depth to the base.

Both work beautifully. It comes down to personal preference. Graham crackers offer a lighter crunch, while digestive biscuits deliver a denser, slightly buttery finish.

If you’re making a no-bake version, digestive biscuits often hold up better without baking.

Tips for a Firm and Non-Soggy Cheesecake Base

The key to a perfect crust lies in both pressure and heat. Here’s how to get it right every time:

1. Grind your crumbs finely using a food processor. Chunky bits lead to uneven textures.
2. Use melted butter—not softened. It binds the crumbs and helps form a compact layer.
3. Add sugar (optional) for added sweetness and crunch.
4. Pack it firmly into the bottom of the pan using the base of a glass or measuring cup. This prevents cracks and sinking.
5. Pre-bake the crust at 325°F for 10 minutes. This step is crucial to firm up the structure and prevent sogginess once you add the ube cheesecake filling.

Pro Tip: After baking the crust, let it cool completely before adding the batter. A hot crust can lead to uneven baking or soggy layers.

Baking vs. No-Bake Crust Methods

There are two routes you can go with the base—baked or no-bake crust. Here’s when to use each:

• Baked Crust: Best for full, traditional cheesecakes. It adds strength and crunch to support the creamy center.
• No-Bake Crust: Great for individual cheesecakes in jars or when you’re short on time. Requires chilling for at least 1 hour to set.

Check out our Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls for another no-bake treat idea!

How to Make the Ube Cheesecake Batter

Properly Mixing the Batter: Room Temperature Tips

Before diving into mixing, one golden rule: everything must be at room temperature—especially the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream. Cold ingredients won’t combine smoothly, leaving lumps that ruin the velvety texture we want.

Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

• Take cream cheese out at least 1 hour in advance
• Crack your eggs and leave them covered for 30–45 minutes
• Use room temperature sour cream for easier blending

Now, let’s get mixing. First, beat the cream cheese using a hand or stand mixer on medium-high for 2–3 minutes until fluffy. Then add granulated sugar and beat again until the mixture is smooth and airy.

Scraping down the bowl after every step is critical to avoid dense batter.

How to Incorporate Ube Halaya and Ube Extract Without Overmixing

Once your base is smooth, fold in the stars of the show: ube halaya and ube extract.

• Use about 1 cup of ube halaya—it gives body, flavor, and that gorgeous purple hue.
• Add 1 tablespoon of ube extract for a deeper color and aroma boost.

Gently mix them into the cream cheese base. Overmixing at this stage introduces too much air, which can cause cracking while baking.

Next, add sour cream to make the batter silky and add a slight tang to balance the sweetness. Then, one by one, add the eggs, mixing lightly after each. You want them just incorporated—no vigorous mixing.

Add a pinch of salt at the end to round out the flavor.

Here’s the exact sequence:

1. Cream cheese → Beat until fluffy
2. Sugar → Beat again until smooth
3. Ube halaya + extract → Mix gently
4. Sour cream → Stir to loosen the batter
5. Eggs (one at a time) → Lightly beat in
6. Salt → Final mix on low

Creamy Consistency Secrets for a Lush Cheesecake Texture

To nail the creamy texture, follow these secrets that top bakers swear by:

• Don’t overbeat once the eggs are in—this avoids cracking and sinking.
• Always scrape the bowl—especially at the bottom—to prevent unmixed lumps.
• Avoid whipping air into the batter. Keep mixing on medium or low speed.
• Rest the batter for 5–10 minutes before pouring to release air bubbles.

Optional: Tap the filled pan gently on the counter to pop any surface bubbles before baking.

This careful process ensures your ube cheesecake recipe delivers a custard-like center that slices clean, holds shape, and melts in your mouth.

Want more creamy delights? Don’t miss our indulgent KFC Bowl Recipe with smooth mashed layers.

Baking the Ube Cheesecake Perfectly

How to Use a Water Bath to Prevent Cracks

Cheesecake may seem intimidating, but with the right baking method, it’s nearly foolproof. The water bath technique—also known as bain-marie—is the secret to that perfectly smooth, crack-free top.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Wrap the outside of your springform pan in two layers of heavy-duty foil, sealing tightly to prevent water seepage.
2. Place the cheesecake pan inside a larger roasting pan.
3. Boil water and carefully pour it into the roasting pan, until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan.
4. Place the whole setup on the center rack of your preheated oven.

Why use a water bath?

• It regulates temperature, ensuring even baking.
• It creates a humid environment, preventing the top from drying out.
• It cushions sudden temperature shifts, which can cause cracks.

If you’re in a pinch and can’t use foil, try a silicone cheesecake pan wrap to prevent water from getting in.

Ideal Baking Temperatures and Timings

Temperature matters. Too hot, and the cheesecake will rise and fall like a souffle. Too cool, and you’ll end up underbaked in the center.

Here’s the sweet spot for ube cheesecake:

• Temperature: 325°F (163°C)
• Time: 60–75 minutes

Rather than relying only on time, use the “jiggle test”. Gently nudge the pan. The edges should look set, but the center should slightly jiggle like gelatin. That’s when it’s ready.

After baking:

• Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour. This gradual cooling prevents surface cracks.
• Then, move it to the counter to cool completely before refrigerating.

Don’t miss our guide on How to Cook a Scallops—another dish where temperature precision is key!

Troubleshooting Common Cheesecake Baking Issues

Even seasoned bakers run into cheesecake mishaps. Here’s how to handle them:

Pro Tip: Refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, before slicing. This gives it time to fully set and intensify in flavor.

Cooling, Chilling & Slicing for Best Results

Why Gradual Cooling is Critical

One of the most overlooked parts of the ube cheesecake recipe process is the cooling phase. Cooling too quickly can cause dramatic temperature shifts that lead to surface cracks, rubbery texture, or sunken centers.

Follow this step-by-step cooling method:

1. Turn the oven off once your cheesecake passes the jiggle test.
2. Crack the oven door open slightly and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour.
3. After that, remove it from the water bath and let it rest at room temperature for another hour.
4. Then place it—uncovered—in the fridge to cool for at least 6 hours, but ideally overnight.

This slow and steady method allows the filling to fully set and develop that creamy, custard-like consistency ube cheesecakes are known for.

How Long to Chill Before Serving

To enjoy the perfect texture and flavor, chill your ube cheesecake for a minimum of 6 hours, though overnight chilling is ideal. This gives the flavors time to meld and the filling time to firm up completely.

Avoid slicing or adding toppings too early. The structure continues to stabilize during this refrigeration window.

Quick Tip: If you’re short on time, place the cheesecake in the fridge uncovered for the first few hours to allow moisture to evaporate, then cover tightly to avoid absorbing other fridge odors.

Tips for Clean Cheesecake Slices Every Time

After all that work, you want your cheesecake slices to look as amazing as they taste. Follow these professional slicing tips for clean cuts:

• Use a thin, sharp knife—not serrated.
• Dip the blade in hot water, then wipe it dry before each slice.
• Cut with a steady downward motion—avoid dragging.
• Wipe the blade clean between each slice to prevent smearing.

Want more baking precision tips? Check out our Simple Leche de Tigre Recipe to practice clean slicing in citrus-cured dishes.

Topping & Decorating Your Ube Cheesecake

How to Make Ube Whipped Cream and Purple Swirls

Once your cheesecake is chilled and set, it’s time for the fun part—decorating! This step takes your ube cheesecake from simple to show-stopping.

For a vibrant finish, top your cheesecake with ube whipped cream. Here’s how to make it:

Ube Whipped Cream Recipe

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp ube extract

Instructions:

1. Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes.
2. Add heavy cream, powdered sugar, and ube extract to the bowl.
3. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
4. Spoon into a piping bag with a star or open round tip.
5. Pipe swirls or rosettes on top of your cheesecake in a circular pattern or just around the edges.

The result is a rich, creamy, and beautifully hued topping that enhances both look and flavor.

Creative Garnishes: Crispearls, Toasted Coconut, White Chocolate

Garnishes turn a great cheesecake into a gourmet dessert. Here are a few elegant, easy-to-source toppings to elevate your presentation:

Presentation Tips:

• Keep toppings symmetrical or asymmetrically artistic, but not cluttered.
• Use contrasting colors like white, gold, or green for visual drama.
• Pipe whipped cream in intervals, leaving room for bold garnishes.

Hosting a gathering? Don’t miss our Heart Cakes Near Me article for more party-ready dessert inspiration.

Serving Ideas for Parties and Holidays

Ube cheesecake isn’t just a treat—it’s a centerpiece. Here are some ways to make it shine for special occasions:

• Mini Cheesecakes: Use cupcake pans for individual servings.
• Jar Cheesecakes: Layer crust, filling, and toppings in mason jars for a portable, party-ready treat.
• Holiday Vibes: Add red berries for Christmas, gold sprinkles for New Year’s, or pastel flowers for Easter.
• Birthday Bash: Top with a sparkler or “Happy Birthday” topper for a festive touch.

Planning a holiday menu? You’ll love the fusion desserts in our Traditional Ba Bao Fan Recipe.

Storage, Freezing, and Make-Ahead Tips

How to Store Ube Cheesecake for Maximum Freshness

Cheesecake gets better with time—when stored properly. Once your ube cheesecake is chilled and decorated, storing it the right way preserves its creamy texture and rich flavor.

Refrigeration Guidelines:

• Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the coldest section of the refrigerator.
• Best consumed within 5 days for ideal texture and freshness.

If you’ve added whipped cream or fruit toppings, it’s best to consume within 3 days, as these extras can lose texture quickly.

Can You Freeze Ube Cheesecake? Yes—Here’s How

Freezing ube cheesecake is totally possible, and in some cases, recommended—especially if you’re prepping for a big event or saving leftovers.

Freezing a Whole Cheesecake:

1. Chill the cheesecake completely in the fridge first.
2. Skip adding whipped cream or toppings.
3. Wrap the entire cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap, then wrap again in aluminum foil.
4. Place in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable bag.
5. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Freezing Individual Slices:

• Slice and place parchment paper between each piece.
• Wrap each piece individually and freeze flat in an airtight container.
• This method is perfect for single-serve treats!

Thawing Tips:

• Always thaw in the refrigerator overnight—never at room temperature.
• For best results, wait to add whipped cream and toppings after thawing.

Looking for more make-ahead desserts? Discover great ideas like our Best Earl Grey Cookies for freezable snack options.

Refrigerated Shelf Life and Best Practices

Bonus Tip: If freezing with the crust, double-wrap the base and place on a cardboard circle to maintain shape.

Ube Cheesecake Variations and Flavor Pairings

Mini Ube Cheesecakes, No-Bake, and Vegan Alternatives

Ube cheesecake is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re short on time or baking for special diets, these variations keep the flavor strong and the effort light.

1. Mini Ube Cheesecakes

Perfect for parties or single servings:

• Use a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
• Add a spoonful of crust, press, and top with ube batter.
• Bake at 325°F for 15–18 minutes.
• Chill and top with whipped cream before serving.

2. No-Bake Ube Cheesecake

No oven? No problem.

• Make a standard graham crust and chill for 1 hour.
• Use a no-bake cheesecake filling with cream cheese, whipped cream, ube jam, and extract.
• Chill for 6+ hours or overnight for best texture.

3. Vegan Ube Cheesecake

For a dairy-free version:

• Use soaked cashews, coconut cream, and maple syrup as a base.
• Blend in ube halaya and ube extract.
• Pour over a date-nut crust and freeze until set.

All versions maintain that rich, creamy purple goodness while accommodating different needs.

Looking for a unique Filipino vegan recipe? Don’t miss our Simple Raw Vegan Recipes.

Flavor Combos That Pair Well: Coconut, Matcha, Mango, and More

Ube has a subtle flavor, so pairing it with the right ingredients can bring out its best qualities. Here are some pairing favorites:

These pairings don’t just complement—they elevate the cheesecake into gourmet territory.

Using Ube Cheesecake in Parfaits, Bars, and Fusion Desserts

Don’t limit ube cheesecake to the traditional round form. Here are innovative ways to reimagine this purple gem:

• Ube Cheesecake Bars: Press crust into a square pan, bake, pour in ube batter, and slice into bars after chilling.
• Ube Cheesecake Parfaits: Alternate layers of crushed graham, ube filling, whipped cream, and mango chunks in a glass jar.
• Ube Chiffon Cheesecake: Mix ube cheesecake batter with fluffy egg whites for a hybrid Japanese-style version.
• Halo-Halo Fusion: Add ube cheesecake cubes into the classic Filipino halo-halo for a luxurious texture surprise.

FAQs About Ube Cheesecake Recipe

Ube Cheesecake Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Try this creamy ube cheesecake recipe with Filipino flavors and simple steps. Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime sweet cravings.

• Author: eppicrecipes.com
• Prep Time: PT40M
• Cook Time: PT1H15M
• Total Time: PT7H40M
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Filipino-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 907g (4 packs) full-fat cream cheese, softened

• 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup ube halaya jam

• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream

• 1 tbsp ube extract

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1/4 tsp salt

• For Whipped Topping

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1 tsp ube extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 325°F.

• Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.

• Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add sugar and beat again.

• Mix in ube halaya, sour cream, and ube extract.

• Add eggs one at a time. Add salt and stir gently.

• Pour batter into crust.

• Wrap pan in foil and place in a water bath.

• Bake for 60–75 minutes. Turn off oven and let cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour.

• Cool on counter, then refrigerate at least 6 hours.

 

• Prepare ube whipped cream and pipe on top before serving.

Notes

– Always use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a rich, smooth texture.

– Let all ingredients reach room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps.

– Do not overmix after adding eggs—this can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.

– Use a water bath to ensure even baking and a crack-free top.

– Chill the cheesecake for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, for best results.

– Ube halaya can be homemade or store-bought, but look for one with a thick, jam-like consistency.

– Ube extract enhances both the color and flavor—don’t skip it if you want that classic vibrant purple hue.

– This dessert freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze whole or by slice for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 125mg