Ube Cheesecake Recipe

Graham cracker crumbs: Crushed graham crackers used to form the base crust of the cheesecake.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to both the crust and the cheesecake filling.

Melted butter: Binds the graham cracker crumbs together to form a solid crust.

Cream cheese: The main component of the cheesecake filling, providing a rich and creamy texture.

Eggs: Help to set the cheesecake filling and give it structure.

Ube halaya: Purple yam jam that gives the cheesecake its unique flavor and vibrant color.

Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the cheesecake filling.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake.

When mixing the cream cheese and sugar, ensure that the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in your cheesecake. You can achieve this by leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting. Additionally, when adding the eggs, incorporate them one at a time and beat well after each addition to ensure a smooth and creamy texture. This will help create a more uniform and velvety cheesecake.

• graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with digestive biscuit crumbs: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and slightly sweet flavor that works well for the crust.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and a bit of moisture to the crust.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and helps bind the crumbs together, adding a slight coconut flavor.

• cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone has a creamy texture and mild flavor that can mimic cream cheese in cheesecakes.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a unique sweetness and depth of flavor to the cheesecake filling.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoon water per egg) can be used as a vegan alternative to bind the ingredients.

• ube halaya (purple yam jam) - Substitute with sweet potato puree: Sweet potato puree can provide a similar texture and sweetness, though the flavor will be different.

• heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream offers a rich and creamy texture similar to heavy cream, with a hint of coconut flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a different but complementary flavor to the cheesecake.

• Allow the ube cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the crust soggy.

• Wrap the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure that the wrap is in direct contact with the surface of the cheesecake to minimize exposure to air and prevent it from drying out.

• Place the wrapped cheesecake in an airtight container. This provides an extra layer of protection against moisture and odors from other foods in the refrigerator.

• Store the ube cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the best flavor and texture, consume it within this time frame.

• To freeze, first chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for a few hours until it is firm. This makes it easier to handle and wrap.

• Once chilled, wrap the cheesecake in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn and preserves the cheesecake's quality.

• Label the wrapped cheesecake with the date before placing it in the freezer. This helps you keep track of how long it has been stored.

• Freeze the ube cheesecake for up to 2 months. For the best taste and texture, try to consume it within this period.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can cause the cheesecake to become too soft and lose its structure.

• For individual servings, slice the cheesecake before freezing. Place parchment paper between each slice to prevent them from sticking together. This way, you can easily grab a single slice whenever you crave a piece of ube cheesecake.

• Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the ube cheesecake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too much. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the creamy texture of the cheesecake.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a slice of ube cheesecake on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the cheesecake to become rubbery.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 275°F (135°C). Place the ube cheesecake on a piece of parchment paper or a small baking tray. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, checking frequently to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

• For those who prefer a stovetop method, use a double boiler. Place the ube cheesecake in a heatproof dish and set it over a pot of simmering water. Cover and heat for about 10 minutes, or until the cheesecake is warmed through. This gentle method helps retain moisture and texture.

• Oven: Used to bake the cheesecake at a consistent temperature of 325°F (163°C).

• Springform pan: Essential for making cheesecakes as it allows for easy removal of the cake without damaging it.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter for the crust, as well as to mix the cream cheese filling.

• Electric mixer: Helps to beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and to incorporate the eggs, ube halaya, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the ingredients like graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like the vanilla extract.

• Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

• Cooling rack: Allows the cheesecake to cool evenly before refrigerating.

• Refrigerator: Used to chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to set properly before serving.

Prepare the crust ahead: Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter the night before and store in the fridge.

Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and ube halaya are at room temperature for easier mixing.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly blend the cream cheese mixture using a food processor for a smoother texture.

Line the pan: Line the springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.