If you adore vibrant flavors and creamy textures, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Ube Basque Cheesecake. This stunning dessert marries the rich, slightly caramelized crust of the traditional Basque cheesecake with the enchanting purple hue and sweet earthiness of ube, a beloved Filipino purple yam. It’s more than just a cheesecake; it’s a beautiful fusion of Filipino and Spanish culinary traditions that brings a gorgeous pop of color and a luscious, velvety experience to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Ube Basque Cheesecake plays an important role in building its unique flavor and texture. The mix is simple yet thoughtfully balanced, ensuring your cheesecake turns out velvety, rich, and perfectly purple.
- 16 oz Cream Cheese: Provides the creamy base for a luxurious texture; mascarpone can also be used for a richer taste.
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar: Adds essential sweetness; adjust to taste for a less sweet outcome.
- 3 large Eggs: These bind the cheesecake together, ensuring it has a smooth, rich texture.
- 1 cup Ube Halaya: Natural flavoring for that distinct ube taste and vibrant purple color; can be substituted, but flavor may change.
- 1 tbsp Ube Extract: Enhances the ube flavor; use a natural variant for the best impact.
- 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract: Complements sweetness and enriches the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp Salt: Balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the cheesecake.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Contributes to the cheesecake’s rich, creamy thickness.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour: Stabilizes the batter; swap for gluten-free flour if desired.
How to Make Ube Basque Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that signature golden-brown, rustic crust. Next, line a 9-inch springform pan generously with parchment paper—don’t be shy with the lining, as it helps with easy release and gives the cheesecake its characteristic uneven edges.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese and Sugar
Using a stand mixer on medium speed, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This step ensures a silky base without lumps, a crucial foundation to achieving that velvety texture throughout the cheesecake.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Ube Flavors
Add the eggs one by one, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. Then gently fold in the ube halaya, ube extract, vanilla extract, and salt. This blend not only infuses the batter with vibrant color but also layers in that unmistakable sweet and earthy ube essence.
Step 4: Add Cream and Flour
Slowly pour in the heavy cream and sift in the all-purpose flour, mixing until smooth and fully combined. The cream makes the cheesecake luxuriously rich, while the flour adds just enough structure so the cake holds together while remaining decadently soft.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour your beautiful batter into the prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 60 to 65 minutes. You want the top to develop a deep golden brown color with a slightly jiggly center — that’s exactly what gives the Basque cheesecake its uniquely creamy, custard-like middle.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Once baked, let your Ube Basque Cheesecake cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least three hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time lets the flavors marry and the texture set, ensuring every forkful is as smooth and delightful as the first.
How to Serve Ube Basque Cheesecake
Garnishes
A simple drizzle of coconut cream over slices adds a luscious tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy ube flavor. Fresh seasonal fruits, like strawberries or mango, bring fresh acidity and bright color contrast that highlight the cake’s velvety richness.
Side Dishes
Pair your Ube Basque Cheesecake with a light, floral tea or a freshly brewed coffee for a comforting dessert experience. If you want to go a little further, a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a wonderfully creamy companion that cools the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation at your next gathering, serve individual slices on vibrant plates garnished with edible flowers or gold leaf. Alternatively, turn leftovers into cheesecake parfaits by layering cubes of the cake with whipped cream and fresh berries in clear glasses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Ube Basque Cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, then store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and retain its creamy texture for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy schedules.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen cheesecake can last up to 2 months, so you can always have a sweet treat ready for a special occasion.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your cheesecake from the fridge or freezer, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Serve it chilled or slightly warmed in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes if you prefer a softer texture, but don’t overheat or it might lose its delicate creaminess.
FAQs
What is Ube Halaya and where can I buy it?
Ube Halaya is a sweet purple yam jam popular in Filipino desserts. You can usually find it in Asian grocery stores or online, often sold in jars or cans. It’s essential for the authentic flavor and vibrant purple color in Ube Basque Cheesecake.
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of ube extract?
You can use vanilla extract if you don’t have ube extract, but keep in mind it won’t have the same pronounced purple yam flavor. Ube extract intensifies the unique taste and enhances the color, making the cheesecake more authentic.
Is this cheesecake gluten-free?
The classic version includes all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend of your choice to make the Ube Basque Cheesecake gluten-free without compromising texture.
Why does Basque cheesecake have a burnt top?
The burnt or deeply caramelized top of Basque cheesecake is intentional. Baking at high heat creates this distinctive appearance and adds a slightly smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Can I substitute cream cheese with mascarpone?
Absolutely! Mascarpone will give your Ube Basque Cheesecake an even richer and silkier texture. It’s a wonderful alternative if you want a creamier mouthfeel and a subtly different flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Ube Basque Cheesecake that brings a touch of joy and elegance to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or savoring a quiet moment alone, its unique flavor and gorgeous color make it unforgettable. Give it a try and watch how this beautifully simple dessert becomes a fast favorite in your kitchen.