Baking enthusiasts, get ready to embark on a delightful journey into the world of ube-infused treats! In this blog post, we'll share two mouthwatering recipes: Ube Cookies and Ube Cheesecake. We'll also explore the magic of ube flavoring in enhancing these baked goods. Additionally, we'll introduce unique ideas like Ube Mochi Cookies and Ube Milk Cheesecake to expand your baking repertoire.
Using ube extract by Dolce Foglia offers several notable benefits:
Sugar-Free: This feature is especially beneficial for individuals who are monitoring their sugar intake, such as diabetics, or those seeking to reduce sugar consumption for health or dietary reasons. It allows for the enjoyment of the distinct ube flavor without the added sugars.
Dye-Free: The absence of artificial colors in the ube extract makes it a healthier choice, particularly for those with sensitivities to food dyes. It’s also attractive for parents looking to minimize artificial additives in their children’s diets.
Kosher Certified: This certification ensures that the ube extract adheres to the strict dietary standards of kashrut, making it suitable for individuals who follow Jewish dietary laws. Kosher certification often signifies a higher level of quality control and production standards, appealing to a broader audience.
American Made: Opting for a product made in the USA often suggests adherence to high manufacturing standards. It also supports the local economy and can be a point of pride for American consumers.
Family-Owned Company: Choosing products from a family-owned business resonates with those who prefer to support smaller, potentially more personalized, business operations. It can signify a commitment to quality, tradition, and exceptional customer service.
Zero Alcohol: The lack of alcohol in the extract makes it suitable for all ages and various dietary restrictions, including for those who avoid alcohol for health, religious, or personal reasons.
These characteristics of Dolce Foglia's ube extract make it an appealing choice for a wide range of consumers, especially those who are health-conscious or have specific dietary preferences or restrictions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup grated ube (purple yam)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon ube flavoring
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it's smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until each egg is incorporated.
Stir in the grated ube, ube flavoring, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift the all-purpose flour and salt together.
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top.
Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan and fill the larger pan with hot water to create a water bath.
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for about an hour to cool gradually.
Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, garnish as desired, and serve.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to ensure even cooking and prevent cracking.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Ube Cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of ube syrup for added sweetness.
- Garnish with grated ube or purple edible flowers for an elegant presentation.
Storing and Making Ahead:
- Store Ube Cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- You can make the cheesecake ahead of time and freeze it for up to a month.
Customizing:
- Experiment with different crusts, like graham cracker or Oreo, for a unique twist.
- Swirl in a ube syrup or sauce for a marbled effect.
- Top with fresh fruit like strawberries or mango for a burst of color and flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup grated ube (purple yam)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon ube flavoring
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the grated ube and mix until well incorporated.
Beat in the egg and ube flavoring until the mixture is smooth.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Add White Chocolate Chips (Optional)
If you're using white chocolate chips, gently fold them into the cookie dough until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Form and Bake the Cookies
Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The cookies will continue to set as they cool.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Tricks:
- Cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy for the best cookie texture.
- Don't overmix the cookie dough once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cookies tender.
- If using white chocolate chips, fold them into the dough after mixing the other ingredients.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Ube Cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of hot tea for a delightful snack.
- Create a colorful dessert platter by pairing them with other ube treats like Ube Mochi or Ube Cheesecake.
Storing and Making Ahead:
- Store Ube Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- You can freeze the cookie dough or baked cookies for longer storage.
Customizing:
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate chips or chunks.
- Adjust the amount of ube flavoring to achieve your desired level of ube flavor.
With these delectable Ube Cookies and Ube Cheesecake recipes, you can explore the world of baking with ube and create memorable treats that combine the best of traditional and contemporary flavors. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to be a hit among family and friends. Enjoy the delightful taste of ube in every bite!