As I rolled out the dough for my latest kitchen adventure, the enchanting purple hue of ube transformed an ordinary baking session into a vibrant experience. This Fluffy Ube Pandesal with Cheese is not just a recipe; it’s a joyful nod to Filipino traditions, infusing warmth and comfort into every bite. With its airy texture and the delightful sweetness of ube, these pillowy rolls make a fantastic addition to breakfast or a delightful snack any time of day. Plus, the surprise of melty cheese at the center adds a savory twist that’ll have family and friends coming back for more. Ready to fill your home with delicious aromas and create delightful memories? Let’s dive into the world of Ube Pandesal that’s rich in flavor and tradition!
Why is Ube Pandesal so Special?
Amazingly Flavorful: The sweet, earthy notes of ube combined with melty cheese create a deliciously unique flavor experience that’s sure to impress.
Simple to Make: You don’t need to be a pro baker to achieve the perfect texture—just follow the steps and watch the magic happen!
Visually Stunning: The vibrant purple color of these rolls adds a pop of joy to any breakfast table or snack spread.
Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy them warm as a standalone treat, or dip them in coffee or tea for a cozy twist.
Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe makes plenty for sharing, making it a hit at parties, brunches, or family celebrations.
Indulge in the delightful tradition of Filipino bread with this Ube Pandesal recipe that is bound to impress!
Ube Pandesal Ingredients
• Prepare to create fluffy, irresistible Ube Pandesal with these essential ingredients!
For the Dough
- Bread Flour – Provides structure and fluffiness; substitute with all-purpose flour if necessary, but expect a different texture.
- White Granulated Sugar – Adds the right sweetness; you can swap with brown sugar for a richer taste.
- Rapid-Rise Yeast – Essential for quick rising; avoid using active dry yeast without proofing first for best results.
- Whole Milk (warm) – Hydrates the dough wonderfully; feel free to replace it with 2% milk or non-dairy alternatives.
- Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds moisture and richness; if only salted butter is on hand, skip any extra salt.
- Ube Extract/Flavoring – Key for the signature flavor; it’s best found at Asian grocery stores or online.
- Large Egg – Acts as a binding agent; ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor beautifully; always use a good-quality brand for the best results.
- Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and heightens overall flavor.
For the Coating and Filling
- Fine Breadcrumbs – Provides a delightful texture; panko or finely textured breadcrumbs can work as substitutes.
- Cheese Cubes – Optional but recommended; cheddar, cream cheese, or brie create a creamy surprise in each roll.
- Ube Halaya (purple yam jam) – Adds an extra sweetness if desired; replace with other jams like strawberry or orange marmalade for a fun twist.
Get ready to create a memorable breakfast or snack with these Ube Pandesal ingredients that fuse tradition and flavor in every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Pandesal (Pan de Sal)
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 large room-temperature egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 teaspoons of ube extract. Add 1 tablespoon of rapid-rise yeast, and mix well until everything is blended into a warm, inviting mixture. This creates the foundation for your delightful Ube Pandesal.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 cups of bread flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough begins to form. Look for a cohesive texture that pulls away from the bowl, indicating it’s time to knead.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rest
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This short hydration period allows the flour to absorb the moisture, making the dough easier to knead. In this time, the ingredients will meld beautifully, preparing the mixture for your next steps in making fluffy Ube Pandesal.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Once rested, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Use your palms to push and fold the dough, and check for a soft, slightly tacky texture. This process builds the gluten structure essential for airy Ube Pandesal.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, then cover it with a damp cloth. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. You will know it’s ready when it has puffed up beautifully, reflecting the exciting anticipation of the Ube Pandesal awaiting to be shaped.
Step 6: Divide the Dough
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 20 equal portions, each weighing about 45 grams. Shape each piece into a smooth ball, making sure to create a nice surface tension—this will help the Ube Pandesal rise evenly during the second proofing.
Step 7: Fill the Dough
For those making cheese-filled Ube Pandesal, flatten each dough ball slightly in your hands. Place a cube of cheese or a spoonful of ube halaya at the center, and then fold the edges over to seal tightly. This ensures that delightful cheesy or sweet surprise remains intact while baking, adding extra joy to every bite.
Step 8: Coat and Prepare for Baking
Roll each filled ball in fine breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating that gives added texture once baked. Arrange the prepared Ube Pandesal on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between them for expansion. This final touch will enhance both the appearance and crunch of these lovely rolls.
Step 9: Second Rise
Cover the tray with a clean kitchen towel and allow the shaped Ube Pandesal to rise for an additional 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they puff up; they are ready to bake when they feel pleasantly soft to the touch and have increased in size.
Step 10: Bake the Ube Pandesal
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the second rise is complete, bake the Ube Pandesal in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until they are golden brown. You’ll know they are done when they have a lovely golden crust and fill your home with the sweetest aroma.
Step 11: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the Ube Pandesal from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the rolls to settle and enhances their fluffy texture, creating perfect little treasures to enjoy warm or at room temperature, bringing a joyful delight to your table!
What to Serve with Fluffy Ube Pandesal with Cheese
Indulging in soft and colorful Ube Pandesal creates a delightful experience perfect for sharing with loved ones.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A rich and comforting classic that balances the sweetness of the pandesal for a filling meal.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright berries and tropical fruits add a refreshing contrast, enhancing the sweetness of the ube rolls.
- Savory Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy eggs seasoned with herbs provide a protein-packed side that pairs beautifully with the sweet rolls.
- Filipino Longganisa: Sweet and savory sausage adds an authentic touch, perfect for a hearty breakfast alongside Ube Pandesal.
- Pineapple Juice: The bright acidity of fresh pineapple juice cleanses the palate, making every bite of the sweet rolls even more delightful.
- Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety drink complements the fluffy texture of the pandesal, creating a cozy, comforting experience.
- Buko Pandan Salad: This creamy coconut dessert adds a delightful sweetness and a vibrant color contrast to the breakfast table.
- Coconut Jam: The sweet, creamy consistency of coconut jam enhances the flavors of Ube Pandesal, making each bite a tropical delight.
- Milk Tea: A smooth, aromatic beverage that pairs perfectly with the sweet notes of ube and the savory cheese filling.
- Chocolate Cake: For a decadent dessert option, a slice of rich chocolate cake creates a beautiful ending to a Ube Pandesal feast.
Ube Pandesal Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to experiment with these delicious twists and alternatives to make this recipe your own!
-
Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with almond or oat milk and omit the cheese for a delightful vegan version.
Dairy-free options allow everyone to savor the joy of Ube Pandesal without any compromise on flavor. -
Sweet & Fruity: Swap ube halaya for your favorite jam, like strawberry or apricot, for a fruity burst.
Each bite will lead you to a delightful flavor journey, perfect for those who love playful variations. -
Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella or feta for a savory kick, or even a flavored cream cheese for added zest.
Each cheese choice introduces a unique creamy surprise that complements the sweetness of ube beautifully. -
Whole Wheat: Experiment with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture that’s still soft and fluffy.
This swap adds a nutty taste and is a great way to make your Ube Pandesal a bit more wholesome. -
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your dough for a warm, aromatic hint that spices up each roll.
Just imagine the cozy aroma filling your kitchen as you bake these flavorful delights! -
Savory Variation: Incorporate green onions or chives into the dough for a delightful savory twist; an unexpected and delicious option!
These herby notes bring a fresh flavor that would be perfect for brunch gatherings. -
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly alternative; be sure to add xanthan gum for texture.
Enjoy the same fluffy delight without the gluten, ensuring that all your loved ones can indulge in these rolls. -
Nutty Flavor: Add finely chopped ube nuts or almonds for extra crunch and a different flavor dimension.
This little addition creates a lovely contrast with the soft bread, inviting more delightful textures in each bite.
These variations offer something for everyone and an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. For more ideas, check out my Dairy-Free Ube Pandesal alternative or explore more about using different cheeses in baking. Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These fluffy Ube Pandesal are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1 through 5, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and allow it to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding with steps 6 to 11. Additionally, you can shape the filled Ube Pandesal (with cheese or ube halaya) and freeze them for up to 3 months; just ensure they are in a single layer before transferring them to an airtight container. To bake from frozen, you can add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time, providing you with warm, fluffy Ube Pandesal that’s just as delicious as fresh!
Storage Tips for Ube Pandesal
Room Temperature: Store leftover Ube Pandesal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This preserves their soft texture while keeping them delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep your pandesal fresher for longer, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week, though this may affect their fluffiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Ube Pandesal. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be kept for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat the Ube Pandesal in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or pop them in an air fryer for a few minutes. This restores their delightful fluffiness and warm, cheesy core!
Expert Tips for Ube Pandesal
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your rapid-rise yeast is fresh for the best results; expired yeast may lead to flat rolls.
- Check Dough Texture: Remember the windowpane test when kneading; it should stretch without tearing to ensure perfect Ube Pandesal.
- Keep Ingredients Room Temperature: Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing, especially the egg and milk, for optimal dough development.
- Prevent Leaks: Seal dough tightly around cheese or ube halaya to avoid any leaks during baking, ensuring a delightful surprise in every bite.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the Ube Pandesal to cool slightly after baking; this helps maintain its fluffy texture while enhancing flavors.
Ube Pandesal (Pan de Sal) Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ube for this recipe?
When selecting ube (purple yam), look for firm, smooth skin without dark spots or blemishes. The ideal ube is slightly heavy for its size, indicating that it’s fresh and full of moisture. If you can find it, choose smaller ube yams as they are generally sweeter.
How should I store leftover Ube Pandesal?
To keep your Ube Pandesal fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you don’t finish them in that timeframe, you can also refrigerate them in an airtight container, but note that this may affect their fluffiness slightly.
Can I freeze Ube Pandesal, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze Ube Pandesal, allow them to cool completely after baking. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or use an air fryer for a few minutes to restore their delightful texture.
What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough doesn’t rise well, check the freshness of your yeast first. If it’s expired, the rolls may not rise. Ensure you’re using warm milk (not hot) to activate the yeast. If it’s too cold or hot, it can kill the yeast. Additionally, the rising environment should be warm, so consider placing the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) or another warm spot to encourage rising.
Is Ube Pandesal safe for people with gluten allergies?
Unfortunately, Ube Pandesal is not gluten-free since it relies on bread flour. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you could experiment with gluten-free flour blends; however, this may alter the texture and flavor. It’s always wise to notify those with dietary restrictions about ingredients if you’re serving these rolls.
What should I do if I can’t find ube extract?
If ube extract is hard to find, you have a couple of alternatives. You can use ube powder, which should be mixed into the dry ingredients, or even try using a different flavoring like pandan extract for a unique twist. Keep in mind that the color will change, but the taste will still be delicious!
Deliciously Fluffy Ube Pandesal (Pan de Sal) for Breakfast Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, melted unsalted butter, room-temperature egg, vanilla extract, and ube extract. Add rapid-rise yeast and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together bread flour, sugar, and kosher salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rest for about 20 minutes to hydrate.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Gently punch down the risen dough and divide it into 20 equal portions, shaping them into balls.
- Flatten each ball slightly, place a cheese cube or ube halaya in the center, and fold the edges to seal.
- Roll each filled ball in breadcrumbs and place on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Cover the tray with a towel and let the shaped buns rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving.
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