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Picture this: a vibrant purple cheesecake rising in the oven, the sweet scent of vanilla and ube wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. This Ube Basque Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful conversation starter and a feast for the eyes that promises to impress even the most discerning palates.

I stumbled upon this unique twist on the classic cheesecake during a recent culinary adventure, and I couldn’t wait to share it with you. Combining rich cream cheese, earthy ube halaya, and a creamy texture, this cheesecake strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort. It’s an elegant dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make—ideal for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.

So, why settle for the same old desserts when you can elevate your baking game with this stunning Ube Basque Cheesecake? Let’s dive into the recipe that will leave everyone wanting just one more slice.

Why is Ube Basque Cheesecake a must-try?

Unique Flavor: With its vibrant ube root, this cheesecake introduces a touch of mystique and sweetness that will intrigue your taste buds.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, it’s not just another dessert; it’s a conversation starter!
Effortless Elegance: This stunning dessert looks complex but requires minimal effort—ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers.
Creamy Delight: The decadent blend of cream cheese and heavy cream results in a silky texture that melts in your mouth.
Versatile Serving: Dress it up with fresh fruits or serve plain; it adapts beautifully to your occasion.
Time-Saving: With a total prep and chill time of just over four hours, it’s easy to fit into your busy schedule.

Ube Basque Cheesecake Ingredients

• A delightful lineup to make your Ube Basque Cheesecake sing!

For the Batter

16 oz Cream Cheese – Soften it to room temperature for a smooth consistency.
3/4 cup Granulated Sugar – Adjust to taste if you prefer it less sweet.
3 large Eggs – Bring to room temperature for better blending.
1 cup Ube Halaya – This purple yam puree adds a rich, unique flavor.
1 tbsp Ube Extract – Enhances the ube taste and adds depth.
1 tbsp Vanilla Extract – Balances flavors with its warm sweetness.
1/2 tsp Salt – A pinch enhances the overall flavor profile.

For the Creaminess

1 cup Heavy Cream – Ensures a luscious, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour – Helps stabilize the batter for the perfect bake.

How to Make Ube Basque Cheesecake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining it with parchment paper. This step is crucial for ensuring an easy release after baking!
Mix cream cheese and sugar together on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Take your time here, aiming for a luscious blend—this will be the base of your cheesecake!
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Then, fold in the ube halaya, ube extract, vanilla extract, and salt. This will give your cheesecake that lovely purple hue and flavor.
Blend in the heavy cream and all-purpose flour until fully combined and smooth. You want a silky batter, so make sure there are no lumps!
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 60-65 minutes until you see a golden brown top with a slight jiggle in the center. It’s the perfect way to achieve that delicious Basque-style crust!
Cool the cheesecake at room temperature for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This chilling time is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture!

Optional: Top with fresh fruits for an extra burst of flavor and color!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Ube Basque Cheesecake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and prevents lumps.
Whip Gently: When mixing the cream cheese and sugar, don’t overmix. Aim for a creamy texture, but excess beating can introduce air bubbles that may crack your cheesecake.
Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the baking time; underbaking slightly can lead to a soft and jiggly center while still allowing it to firm up as it cools.
Chill Properly: Allow your Ube Basque Cheesecake to cool at room temperature before chilling. This step avoids condensation, which can make the crust soggy.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This helps maintain the cheesecake’s beautiful shape when serving.
Dress it Up: Serve with fresh fruits or a drizzle of coconut cream. It not only enhances the presentation but adds a delightful contrast to the rich cheesecake!

What to Serve with Ube Basque Cheesecake?

Pairing your dessert with complementary flavors can elevate the experience. Here are some delightful options that will make your cheesecake shine even brighter.

Fresh Berries: Strawberries and blueberries add a pop of color and tartness that balances the rich creaminess of the cheesecake beautifully.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping introduces a tropical twist that harmonizes with the ube’s flavor.
Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee enhances the subtle sweetness of the cheesecake, creating a comforting blend that’s hard to resist.
Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of oranges and grapefruits provides a zesty contrast that invigorates your palate after each rich bite.
Mango Sorbet: This frozen treat offers a refreshing, fruity flavor that complements the cheesecake’s creaminess while adding a cooling element.
Macadamia Nut Cookies: A crunchy cookie with nutty undertones adds a delightful texture contrast that pairs nicely with the velvety cheesecake.
Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea enhances the dessert, bringing a delicate earthiness that’s perfect for a cozy evening.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of rich chocolate sauce adds decadence and intensifies the overall flavor profile of the cheesecake.
Lychee Juice: A sweet and exotic drink option that refreshes the palate and enhances the tropical vibe of the ube cheesecake.

With these pairings, your serving of Ube Basque Cheesecake becomes more than just dessert—it transforms into a memorable dining experience!

How to Store and Freeze Ube Basque Cheesecake

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to develop, making each slice a delightful treat!

Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen slices, transfer them to the fridge for 4-6 hours before serving. This helps maintain the creamy texture of your Ube Basque Cheesecake.

Reheating: If you prefer your cheesecake slightly warm, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds—this will enhance the richness while keeping it moist.

Make Ahead Options

These Ube Basque Cheesecake are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing everything together and refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. Additionally, once the cheesecake is baked and cooled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before serving. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent any absorption of odors from the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture. This effortless planning guarantees a delightful dessert ready when you need it!

Ube Basque Cheesecake Variations

Feel free to personalize your Ube Basque Cheesecake with these exciting twists and adaptations that will awaken your creativity and delight your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version that maintains the creamy richness.
Dairy-Free: Use a vegan cream cheese alternative and coconut cream in place of heavy cream. The flavors remain enchanting, perfect for dairy-free diets.
Chocolate Swirl: Fold in melted dark chocolate before baking for a luxurious chocolate and ube flavor combination. This indulgence is a match made in dessert heaven!
Nutty Crunch: Add crushed walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. These nuts provide a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or lime into the mix to brighten the flavor profile. The citrus notes beautifully complement the rich ube.
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle your cheesecake with a sweetened coconut cream topping for an added layer of sweetness. This tropical touch enhances the taste experience!
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising kick. The heat blends well with the creaminess and sweetness for a fun twist.
Fruit Topping: Top your cheesecake with fresh mango or passion fruit for a vibrant presentation and a burst of refreshing flavor. It’s the perfect finishing touch!

Ube Basque Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

What type of ube should I use for Ube Basque Cheesecake?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using real ube halaya (purple yam) instead of artificial flavoring. Look for fresh or frozen ube halaya in Asian grocery stores, or make your own by mashing boiled ube root.

How can I tell if my cheesecake is properly baked?
Absolutely! The top should be golden brown, and the center should have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. If it looks firm all around, it may be overbaked. A soft center is key to the perfect Basque texture!

How do I store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Ube Basque Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to deepen, enhancing each slice’s deliciousness.

Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, transfer slices to the refrigerator for 4-6 hours to thaw gently.

What should I do if my cheesecake cracks?
If you notice cracks, all is not lost! A gentle cheat is to create a delicious topping to cover them up. Fresh fruits, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can disguise any imperfections and enhance your cake’s visual appeal.

Are there any allergy considerations for Ube Basque Cheesecake?
Certainly! This cheesecake contains dairy (cream cheese and heavy cream) and eggs, which may pose allergy concerns for some individuals. Always check with guests regarding their dietary restrictions and consider using dairy-free cream cheese or egg substitutes for an allergen-friendly version.