Dessert

Homemade Ube Cheesecake Recipe

Name: Homemade Ube Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 5 h 30 min
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 1½ cups Graham Cracker Crumbs; 5 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted; ¼ teaspoon Salt; 16 ounces (2 blocks) Cream Cheese, softened; 1 cup Ube Halaya (Purple Yam Jam); ¾ cup Granulated Sugar; 3 large Eggs; ½ cup Sour Cream; ¼ cup Heavy Cream; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

ByHarry Bern December 1, 2025December 1, 2025

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Introduction

Homemade Ube Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the unique sweet flavor of purple yam. This vibrant dessert is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to impress with something colorful and delicious.

The image shows a close-up of a slice taken from a round cake with two main layers. The bottom layer is dark brown, crumbly, and looks like a cookie or chocolate crust. The top layer is thick, smooth, and purple in color, with a mousse-like texture. Around the top edge of the cake, there is a border of white whipped cream or frosting, piped in soft, fluffy swirls. The cake is placed on a white marbled surface and is shown from a side angle. The colors contrast between the dark base, vibrant purple middle, and white trim. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Cream Cheese: 16 ounces (2 blocks), softened
Ube Halaya (Purple Yam Jam): 1 cup
Granulated Sugar: ¾ cup
Eggs: 3 large
Sour Cream: ½ cup
Heavy Cream: ¼ cup
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1½ cups
Unsalted Butter: 5 tablespoons, melted
Salt: ¼ teaspoon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a springform pan and grease it well.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and salt. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 3: Wrap the outside of the springform pan with foil to prevent water from seeping in during baking. Place the pan on a baking tray.
Step 4: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix well. Then add sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and ube halaya, mixing until combined.
Step 5: Add the eggs one at a time, gently mixing after each addition until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Tap the pan gently to release any air bubbles.
Step 7: Bake the cheesecake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the center still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan.
Step 8: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually.
Step 9: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Step 10: Slice the cheesecake with a warm knife and serve chilled. Optional toppings like whipped cream or toasted coconut can enhance the flavors.

Tips & Variations

Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smoother batter without lumps.
For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream instead of heavy cream and sour cream.
Adding a splash of ube extract can boost the color and flavor if your ube halaya is mild.
If you prefer a firmer texture, bake a few minutes longer but watch carefully to avoid cracking.

Storage

Store leftover ube cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes or enjoy it chilled directly from the fridge. Avoid freezing to maintain the best texture.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a cake with two visible layers: the bottom layer is a dark brown crumbly crust with a rough texture, while the top layer is a smooth purple mousse that is thick and creamy. The mousse layer is about twice the height of the crust and has a slightly airy texture with small holes. The top edge of the cake is decorated with piped white whipped cream forming small peaks that run along the entire border. A slice has been cut out, showing the clean edges and even layers of the cake. The cake sits on a white surface that looks like a ceramic stand, against a soft blurred white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What is Ube Halaya?

Ube Halaya is a sweet purple yam jam popular in Filipino cuisine. It adds a natural purple color and unique flavor to desserts like this cheesecake.

Can I use a regular cheesecake crust instead of graham cracker crumbs?

Yes, you can substitute the crust with crushed cookies or a traditional base of your choice, but graham cracker crumbs provide a classic, slightly sweet foundation that pairs well with ube.