When that enchanting purple yam touches your taste buds, there’s a delightful journey from sweet to savory that unfolds with every bite. Discovering Ube Halaya was like unearthing a treasure during a cozy December afternoon when I craved comfort food that was both delicious and simple to make. This Filipino dessert, known for its velvety texture and vibrant hue, becomes even more extraordinary with the addition of shredded cheddar cheese, creating an irresistible blend that keeps friends and family coming back for more.
Imagine serving this creamy delight at your next gathering, where its unique flavor profile sparks conversations and leaves everyone wanting the recipe. Perfect for those moments when fast food just won’t cut it, my Creamy Ube Halaya with Cheddar Cheese not only delights the palate but is also quick to whip up—meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more enjoying the company of loved ones. Let’s dive into this easy, no-bake dessert that is sure to charm anyone who tries it!
Why is Ube Halaya with Cheese So Special?
Irresistible Combination: The marriage of sweet ube and savory cheddar creates a unique flavor experience like no other.
Quick & Easy: This no-bake dessert requires minimal prep and cooking time, allowing you to create a delicious treat in a flash.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Its vibrant color and creamy texture make it a standout dessert at gatherings, ensuring your guests will be asking for seconds.
Versatile Topping: From snacks to desserts, Ube Halaya with Cheese can be enjoyed in various ways, whether served straight or as a topping for pancakes.
Cultural Comfort: With roots in Filipino cuisine, this dish carries cultural significance, bringing a touch of tradition and heart to your dining table.
Get ready to impress with this simple yet sophisticated treat that anyone can master!
Ube Halaya with Cheese Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dessert!
For the Halaya
- Grated Purple Yam – This is the star of the dish, bringing both flavor and stunning color. Fresh or canned will work perfectly!
- Condensed Milk – Adds a luscious sweetness; you can substitute with evaporated milk if you prefer a less sugary touch.
- Coconut Milk – Contributes that creamy texture; feel free to swap it for whole milk or almond milk for a different taste.
- Butter – Enhances the richness and creaminess; margarine can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
- Ube Flavoring – Intensifies the delightful ube essence; skip it if using fresh ube or replace with vanilla extract.
For the Topping
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – This savory addition balances the sweetness; mozzarella is a great alternative if you want a milder taste.
Prepare to create your own scrumptious Ube Halaya with Cheese!
How to Make Ube Halaya with Cheese
- Boil Coconut Milk: Pour 2 cups of coconut milk into a pot and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. This will create a rich base for your halaya.
- Incorporate Condensed Milk: Once the coconut milk is boiling, stir in 1 can of condensed milk, mixing well until fully incorporated for that irresistible sweetness.
- Add Purple Yam and Ube Flavoring: Gradually add 1 lb. of grated purple yam and 1 teaspoon of ube flavoring to the pot. Stir continuously to combine everything smoothly, allowing those vibrant flavors to meld.
- Cook: Maintain medium heat, stirring for about 30 minutes. The mixture should thicken, turning into a creamy consistency with a beautiful purple hue.
- Finish with Butter: Add 3 tablespoons of butter, stirring well until it melts and blends into the mixture. Cook for another 10-12 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Transfer: Pour the thickened halaya into a serving container and carefully top it with ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt slightly for extra creaminess.
Optional: Drizzle with a little coconut cream before serving for a tropical touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Ube Halaya with Cheese
• Stir Constantly: Continuously stirring while cooking is crucial to prevent the halaya from burning at the bottom of the pot, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Check Thickness: Adjust the cooking time based on desired thickness; remember, longer cooking results in a thicker Ube Halaya with Cheese.
• Cool Before Refrigerating: Allow the halaya to cool to room temperature before refrigerating; this helps maintain its creamy consistency and flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Sample the mixture during cooking to adjust sweetness and flavor; feel free to add more condensed milk or ube flavoring as needed.
• Explore Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses if cheddar isn’t your preference; mozzarella offers a milder, stretchy texture while still complementing the sweetness.
What to Serve with Ube Halaya with Cheese?
Indulging in Ube Halaya with Cheese opens doors to a delightful, full-flavor meal that can be paired beautifully with various accompaniments.
- Crispy Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes provide a subtle base that complements the rich sweetness while their texture pairs nicely with the creamy halaya.
- Sweetened Coconut Rice: This dish incorporates coconut milk, mirroring the flavors in your halaya and creating a delicious harmony of tastes.
- Tropical Fresh Fruit: A side of mango or pineapple cuts through the richness of the halaya, adding freshness that breathes life into every bite.
- Latik (Crispy Coconut Toppings): Sprinkling latik over your halaya adds a delightful crunch and enhances the coconut flavor profile beautifully.
- Coffee or Chocolate Beverage: Rich, warm drinks like coffee or hot chocolate perfectly contrast the sweetness of the dessert, creating a cozy moment after your meal.
- Coconut Macaroons: For dessert lovers, pairing Ube Halaya with these chewy, sweet treats provides a sweet, nutty twist that’s totally irresistible.
Each of these pairings elevates the experience, ensuring every gathering is unforgettable and filled with heartwarming flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Ube Halaya with Cheese are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the halaya mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following all the cooking steps and then letting it cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating it in an airtight container. This ensures the texture remains silky and creamy. The shredded cheddar cheese can also be added just before serving, keeping it fresh and melty. Simply reheat the halaya gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick warm-up, and you’ll still have a delightful dessert that feels just made, perfect for any gathering!
Ube Halaya with Cheese Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful recipe your own with these simple ideas!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk with almond or oat milk for a delightful non-dairy version. The texture remains creamy while accommodating dietary needs.
- Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or cream cheese if you prefer a milder flavor or want a creamier texture that still melts beautifully on top.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness or incorporate a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist that complements the ube beautifully.
- Texture Twist: Mix in some finely chopped nuts, like cashews or almonds, to introduce a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the smooth creaminess of the halaya.
- Fruit Fusion: Layer slices of ripe mango on top before serving for a tropical burst of flavor that adds sweetness and a fresh contrast to the creaminess.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a little chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes for a surprising yet delightful heat that elevates the dish into a unique savory dessert.
- Latik Topping: Serve with crispy latik (coconut curds) for added texture and a nibble of sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Ice Cream Delight: Use Ube Halaya as a decadent ice cream topping or blend it with vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm days.
Each of these variations invites you to enjoy Ube Halaya with Cheese in new ways, ensuring there’s something for everyone!
How to Store and Freeze Ube Halaya with Cheese
- Room Temperature: Ube Halaya with Cheese can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If serving at gatherings, it’s best to keep it in a cool place to maintain its creamy texture.
- Fridge: Store the halaya in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before covering to prevent condensation buildup.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Ube Halaya with Cheese in a tightly sealed, airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving or enjoy chilled.
- Reheating: If desired, gently reheat individual portions in the microwave on low power in 15-second increments until warmed through.
Ube Halaya with Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of purple yam should I use?
You can use either fresh or canned grated purple yam. If you’re using fresh, look for yams with smooth, firm skin and a vibrant purple color. Avoid any with dark spots or a soft texture.
How should I store leftover Ube Halaya with Cheese?
After allowing the dessert to cool to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to avoid moisture inside the container as it can affect the texture.
Can I freeze Ube Halaya with Cheese?
Absolutely! To freeze, pour the Ube Halaya into a tightly sealed, airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For a refreshing treat, you can serve it chilled straight from the freezer!
What if my Ube Halaya turns out too thick?
If your halaya is thicker than desired, you can stir in a little warm coconut milk or water gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the flavor with a bit more condensed milk if the sweetness decreases a touch.
Is this recipe safe for people with lactose intolerance?
You can make Ube Halaya with Cheese lactose-free by substituting the butter with margarine and using coconut milk instead of regular milk products. For the cheese, opt for lactose-free cheddar. Always check the labels or consult with your healthcare provider about allergies or dietary restrictions!
How can I enjoy Ube Halaya with Cheese in other recipes?
This delicious dessert is incredibly versatile! Try using it as a topping for pancakes, or as a spread on toast for a delightful breakfast. You can even layer it with ice cream for an indulgent treat!
Creamy Ube Halaya with Cheese: A Sweet Savory Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pour 2 cups of coconut milk into a pot and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Once the coconut milk is boiling, stir in 1 can of condensed milk, mixing well until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add 1 lb. of grated purple yam and 1 teaspoon of ube flavoring, stirring continuously.
- Maintain medium heat, stirring for about 30 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Add 3 tablespoons of butter, stirring until it melts and blends into the mixture.
- Pour into a serving container and top with ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt slightly.