Decadent Delight: Ube Cake Recipe
Ube cake, often referred to as the “Purple Yam Cake,” is a culinary masterpiece that beautifully marries flavor, color, and culture. This Filipino dessert has gained global admiration for its unique vibrant hue and indulgent taste. Its roots can be traced back to the Philippines, where the rich purple yam, known as “ube,” holds cultural significance and serves as the star ingredient in this delectable treat.
A Slice of Heritage Ube Cake Recipe
The history of the Ube cake is intertwined with Filipino traditions. Ube has been a staple ingredient in Filipino cuisine for centuries, celebrated in both sweet and savory dishes. The cake’s striking violet color comes from the natural pigments found in the ube root, creating an inviting visual allure that’s hard to resist. As generations have passed down recipes, the Ube cake has evolved into a symbol of celebrations and togetherness, gracing tables during festive occasions and family gatherings.
Love at First Bite
What sets the Ube cake apart is not just its striking appearance but also its irresistible taste. The velvety, mildly sweet ube-flavored sponge layers, often coupled with a delicate coconut cream frosting, create a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on the taste buds. People from all corners of the world have fallen head over heels for its captivating aesthetics and its delightful combination of textures and tastes. The Ube cake transcends cultural boundaries, enchanting dessert enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Bake Your Own Ube Cake Recipe Magic At Home
Indulging in the splendor of Ube cake isn’t limited to restaurants and bakeries. With the right ingredients and a dash of enthusiasm, you can embark on a culinary adventure from the comfort of your kitchen. By following simple recipes and techniques, you can unlock the secrets of this captivating dessert and surprise your loved ones with a homemade masterpiece. The journey from purple yam to a mouthwatering cake is not only rewarding but also a testament to the allure of exploring new flavors and cultural treasures.
Ingredients for Ube Cake Recipe
– Cooking spray
– 12 ounces (1 1/2 cups) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3 1/4 cups (650 grams) granulated sugar
– 3 3/4 cups (505 grams) cake flour, sifted
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon fine salt
– 5 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon ube extract
– 1 1/4 cups full-fat coconut milk
For the Italian Buttercream:
– 2 cups (1 pound) unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
– 1 1/2 cups (300 grams) granulated sugar
– 1/3 cup (65 grams) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 7 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly:
– 1 cup coconut sport macapuno strings, plus more for garnish (optional)
Steps to make Ube Cake Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into this delightful Ube Cake recipe, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients ready. To create this scrumptious dessert, you’ll need a range of items that come together to form a delightful treat.
Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preparation is key. Position oven racks in both the upper and lower thirds of your oven, and preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Create parchment circles for three 8-inch cake pans by tracing their bottoms onto parchment paper.
Step 3: Pans and Parchment
Give your cake pans a light coating of cooking spray, then place the parchment circles at the bottom of each pan. This helps prevent sticking and ensures your cakes come out effortlessly.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In your trusty stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip up a delightful mixture by creaming together room-temperature butter and granulated sugar. Mix it at a medium speed until it transforms into a light and fluffy concoction, which usually takes around 2 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a spacious bowl, wield your whisk to blend the sifted cake flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients form the core structure of your cake, adding stability and flavor.
Step 6: Incorporate the Eggs and Ube Extract
Once your butter and sugar have metamorphosed into creamy goodness, pause the mixer. Gradually introduce eggs, one at a time, ensuring they integrate seamlessly. Afterward, turn the mixer back on and add the unique touch of ube extract, blending until fully combined.
Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry
With the mixer resting, incorporate about a third of the dry ingredients. Mix at a low speed until they’re nearly integrated, then introduce about half of the full-fat coconut milk, taking turns with the remaining dry ingredients. Finish with the dry mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 8: Divide and Bake
Divide your glorious batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops for an even finish. Pop them into the preheated oven and let them bake until they gently pull away from the pan sides and spring back to the touch. To ensure even baking, rotate the pans halfway through, starting to check for doneness around the 25-minute mark.
Step 9: Cool and Freeze
Once the cakes emerge from the oven, allow them to cool at room temperature for about an hour. Gently loosen the sides with a paring knife. Then, place each cake layer onto a long sheet of plastic wrap, flip it over, and remove the parchment paper. Wrap the layers individually and place them in the freezer, flat, for at least an hour. This step enhances the cake’s texture and makes it easier to assemble.
Make the Italian Buttercream
Step 1: Gathering the Ingredients for Italian Buttercream
To embark on crafting this luscious Italian Buttercream, make sure you have all the essential ingredients on hand. Each component plays a vital role in the creation of this velvety delight.
Step 2: Bring the Butter to Room Temperature
Prior to diving into the buttercream-making process, allow the butter to gracefully reach room temperature. This ensures optimal consistency and smooth incorporation.
Step 3: Prepare the Sugar Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar and water. Give it a gentle stir, and as it heats up over medium-high heat, make sure to wipe away any sugar crystals from the sides of the pan using your fingers or a pastry brush.
Step 4: Heat the Sugar Syrup
Let the sugar syrup reach a temperature of 238°F (114°C) without stirring. This process takes about 10 minutes. Avoid the urge to stir, as it can lead to unwanted crystallization.
Step 5: Whisk the Egg Whites
Place egg whites and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Start whisking on medium speed until the egg whites become delightfully frothy.
Step 6: Gradually Add Sugar to Egg Whites
With the mixer running, slowly stream in the remaining 1/3 cup of granulated sugar. Increase the mixer speed to high and whisk until the mixture forms medium-stiff peaks.
Step 7: Incorporate Sugar Syrup into Meringue
With the mixer on low speed, gently pour the prepared sugar syrup down the side of the bowl to fully incorporate it into the meringue, ensuring a harmonious blend.
Step 8: Whisk to Perfect Meringue
Boost the mixer speed to medium-high and continue whisking until the meringue doubles in volume and the bottom of the bowl loses its warmth, approximately 10 minutes.
Step 9: Add and Beat the Butter
Switch to the paddle attachment and set the mixer to medium speed. Gradually introduce small cubes of butter one by one, allowing each cube to fully meld into the mixture before adding the next. Don’t fret if the mixture appears inconsistent at moments; keep beating to achieve a smooth and fluffy texture. Add the vanilla, continuing to mix until everything comes together into a beautiful silky smooth buttercream.
Assemble the Cake
Step 1: Prep the Macapuno Strings
If you’ve opted to use macapuno strings, begin by draining them using a mesh sieve, ensuring they’re ready to add a delightful twist to your creation.
Step 2: Prepare the Cakes
Retrieve the cakes from the freezer, placing one onto a cake board or serving platter atop your cake turntable. With a serrated knife, gently trim off any elevated portion, ensuring a level surface. Don’t discard the cake scraps; they make for a tasty snack or can be transformed into cake pops. Slice the tops off the remaining two cakes.
Step 3: First Layer and Buttercream
Begin the assembly by spreading a layer of buttercream on the base cake layer. Skillfully wield an offset spatula to achieve a smooth surface. Enhance the experience by artfully arranging half of the macapuno strings over the buttercream layer.
Step 4: Second Layer and More Buttercream
Gracefully position the second cake layer over the macapuno-adorned one. Apply another generous layer of buttercream, and once again, adorn it with the remaining macapuno strings for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Step 5: Secure the Final Layer
Top off the creation with the last cake layer, ensuring a secure placement.
Step 6: Final Buttercream Touches
Generously spread buttercream over the top layer. Utilize a large offset spatula to ensure a smooth surface while gently spinning the turntable. In the event that excess buttercream spills over the top, use the spatula to guide it down the sides.
Step 7: Attain the Crumb Coat
Extend the buttercream journey by applying a thin layer around the sides of the cake. Hold your offset spatula vertically while gently spreading the buttercream in a delicate layer. Allow the cake to rest in the refrigerator for about 5 minutes to set.
Step 8: The Ultimate Finish
Conclude your masterpiece by adding a final, lavish layer of buttercream. Elevate the aesthetics by garnishing with additional macapuno strings, if your heart desires. The result is a masterpiece ready to be savored and enjoyed.
Nutrition Facts
– Calories: 1046
– Total Fat: 61g
– Saturated Fat: 39g
– Cholesterol: 220mg
– Sodium: 416 mg
– Total Carbohydrate: 119g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Total Sugars: 85g
– Protein: 9g
Vitamins and Minerals:
– Vitamin C: 0mg
– Calcium: 108mg
– Iron: 4mg
– Potassium: 176 mg
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Ingredients
Ingredients for Ube Cake Recipe
- - Cooking spray
- - 12 ounces 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
- - 3 1/4 cups 650 grams granulated sugar
- - 3 3/4 cups 505 grams cake flour, sifted
- - 1 tablespoon baking powder
- - 1 teaspoon fine salt
- - 5 large eggs
- - 1 tablespoon ube extract
- - 1 1/4 cups full-fat coconut milk
For the Italian Buttercream:
- - 2 cups 1 pound unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- - 1 1/2 cups 300 grams granulated sugar
- - 1/3 cup 65 grams granulated sugar
- - 1/2 cup water
- - 7 large egg whites
- - 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly:
- - 1 cup coconut sport macapuno strings plus more for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients 🥣
- Before diving into this delightful Ube Cake recipe, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients ready. To create this scrumptious dessert, you'll need a range of items that come together to form a delightful treat.
Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Pans 🍰🔥
- Preparation is key. Position oven racks in both the upper and lower thirds of your oven, and preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Create parchment circles for three 8-inch cake pans by tracing their bottoms onto parchment paper.
Step 3: Pans and Parchment 🍽️📜
- Give your cake pans a light coating of cooking spray, then place the parchment circles at the bottom of each pan. This helps prevent sticking and ensures your cakes come out effortlessly.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar 🧈🍬
- In your trusty stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip up a delightful mixture by creaming together room-temperature butter and granulated sugar. Mix it at a medium speed until it transforms into a light and fluffy concoction, which usually takes around 2 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Dry Ingredients 🍚🧂
- In a spacious bowl, wield your whisk to blend the sifted cake flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients form the core structure of your cake, adding stability and flavor.
Step 6: Incorporate the Eggs and Ube Extract 🥚🌈
- Once your butter and sugar have metamorphosed into creamy goodness, pause the mixer. Gradually introduce eggs, one at a time, ensuring they integrate seamlessly. Afterward, turn the mixer back on and add the unique touch of ube extract, blending until fully combined.
Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry 🥣🌊
- With the mixer resting, incorporate about a third of the dry ingredients. Mix at a low speed until they're nearly integrated, then introduce about half of the full-fat coconut milk, taking turns with the remaining dry ingredients. Finish with the dry mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 8: Divide and Bake 🧁🌟
- Divide your glorious batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops for an even finish. Pop them into the preheated oven and let them bake until they gently pull away from the pan sides and spring back to the touch. To ensure even baking, rotate the pans halfway through, starting to check for doneness around the 25-minute mark.
Step 9: Cool and Freeze ❄️🍰
- Once the cakes emerge from the oven, allow them to cool at room temperature for about an hour. Gently loosen the sides with a paring knife. Then, place each cake layer onto a long sheet of plastic wrap, flip it over, and remove the parchment paper. Wrap the layers individually and place them in the freezer, flat, for at least an hour. This step enhances the cake's texture and makes it easier to assemble.
Make the Italian Buttercream
Step 1: Gathering the Ingredients for Italian Buttercream 🧈🍦
- To embark on crafting this luscious Italian Buttercream, make sure you have all the essential ingredients on hand. Each component plays a vital role in the creation of this velvety delight.
Step 2: Bring the Butter to Room Temperature 🌬️🧈
- Prior to diving into the buttercream-making process, allow the butter to gracefully reach room temperature. This ensures optimal consistency and smooth incorporation.
Step 3: Prepare the Sugar Syrup 🍬🍯
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar and water. Give it a gentle stir, and as it heats up over medium-high heat, make sure to wipe away any sugar crystals from the sides of the pan using your fingers or a pastry brush.
Step 4: Heat the Sugar Syrup 🔥🌡️
- Let the sugar syrup reach a temperature of 238°F (114°C) without stirring. This process takes about 10 minutes. Avoid the urge to stir, as it can lead to unwanted crystallization.
Step 5: Whisk the Egg Whites 🥚🍶
- Place egg whites and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Start whisking on medium speed until the egg whites become delightfully frothy.
Step 6: Gradually Add Sugar to Egg Whites 🍭🥚
- With the mixer running, slowly stream in the remaining 1/3 cup of granulated sugar. Increase the mixer speed to high and whisk until the mixture forms medium-stiff peaks.
Step 7: Incorporate Sugar Syrup into Meringue 🍯🥚
- With the mixer on low speed, gently pour the prepared sugar syrup down the side of the bowl to fully incorporate it into the meringue, ensuring a harmonious blend.
Step 8: Whisk to Perfect Meringue 🌀🍶
- Boost the mixer speed to medium-high and continue whisking until the meringue doubles in volume and the bottom of the bowl loses its warmth, approximately 10 minutes.
Step 9: Add and Beat the Butter 🧈🎵
- Switch to the paddle attachment and set the mixer to medium speed. Gradually introduce small cubes of butter one by one, allowing each cube to fully meld into the mixture before adding the next. Don't fret if the mixture appears inconsistent at moments; keep beating to achieve a smooth and fluffy texture.
Assemble the Cake
Step 1: Prep the Macapuno Strings 🥭🎶
- If you've opted to use macapuno strings, begin by draining them using a mesh sieve, ensuring they're ready to add a delightful twist to your creation.
Step 2: Prepare the Cakes 🎂🔪
- Retrieve the cakes from the freezer, placing one onto a cake board or serving platter atop your cake turntable. With a serrated knife, gently trim off any elevated portion, ensuring a level surface. Don't discard the cake scraps; they make for a tasty snack or can be transformed into cake pops. Slice the tops off the remaining two cakes.
Step 3: First Layer and Buttercream 🥮🍰
- Begin the assembly by spreading a layer of buttercream on the base cake layer. Skillfully wield an offset spatula to achieve a smooth surface. Enhance the experience by artfully arranging half of the macapuno strings over the buttercream layer.
Step 4: Second Layer and More Buttercream 🥮🌟
- Gracefully position the second cake layer over the macapuno-adorned one. Apply another generous layer of buttercream, and once again, adorn it with the remaining macapuno strings for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Step 5: Secure the Final Layer 🎂🎊
- Top off the creation with the last cake layer, ensuring a secure placement.
Step 6: Final Buttercream Touches 🧁🎉
- Generously spread buttercream over the top layer. Utilize a large offset spatula to ensure a smooth surface while gently spinning the turntable. In the event that excess buttercream spills over the top, use the spatula to guide it down the sides.
Step 7: Attain the Crumb Coat 🍰👗
- Extend the buttercream journey by applying a thin layer around the sides of the cake. Hold your offset spatula vertically while gently spreading the buttercream in a delicate layer. Allow the cake to rest in the refrigerator for about 5 minutes to set.
Step 8: The Ultimate Finish 🎂🌈
- Conclude your masterpiece by adding a final, lavish layer of buttercream. Elevate the aesthetics by garnishing with additional macapuno strings, if your heart desires. The result is a masterpiece ready to be savored and enjoyed.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 1000- Total Fat: 61g
- Saturated Fat: 39g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 416 mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 119g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Total Sugars: 85g
- Protein: 9g Vitamins and Minerals: - Vitamin C: 0mg
- Calcium: 108mg
- Iron: 4mg
- Potassium: 176 mg
Steps to avoid while preparing Ube Cake Recipe
1. Skipping the Sifting: Neglecting to sift the cake flour can lead to uneven texture and lumps in your batter. Sifting ensures a smooth and consistent base for your cake layers.
2. Rushing the Creaming Process: Properly creaming butter and sugar is essential for a fluffy and light cake. Avoid rushing this step, as it helps incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a tender crumb.
3. Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Once the dry ingredients are added, mix until just combined to prevent overdeveloping the gluten.
4. Not Leveling Cake Layers: Failing to level the cake layers can result in an uneven and unstable final cake. Take the time to trim any domes or uneven surfaces to ensure stable stacking.
5. Adding Too Much Buttercream: While buttercream adds richness, adding excessive amounts between layers can make the cake overly sweet and heavy. Aim for balanced layers.
6. Forgetting the Crumb Coat: Skipping the crumb coat can result in visible cake crumbs on the final layer of frosting. This initial thin layer helps create a smooth base for the final coat.
7. Ignoring Resting Times: Allowing the cake layers to rest in the freezer before assembly helps with firmness and easier handling. Neglecting this step can lead to a messy assembly.
8. Inadequate Garnishing: If you’re using macapuno strings for garnish, ensure they’re evenly distributed for a consistent appearance. Unevenly placed garnish can affect both presentation and taste.
9. Improper Storage: Failing to store the cake correctly can lead to dryness or loss of flavor. Store the cake in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
10. Not Adjusting for Altitude: If you’re baking at high altitudes, adjustments may be needed to prevent the cake from rising too quickly and then collapsing. Research altitude-specific baking tips.
FAQ
1. Question: What is Ube cake?
Answer: Ube cake, also known as Purple Yam Cake, is a Filipino dessert made with ube, a purple yam. It’s a soft, moist cake known for its distinct purple color and rich flavor.
2. Question: How do you pronounce “Ube”?
Answer: “Ube” is pronounced as “oo-beh.”
3. Question: Can I make Ube cake at home?
Answer: Absolutely! Ube cake can be made at home using readily available ingredients and following a simple recipe.
4. Question: What gives Ube cake its purple color?
Answer: The vibrant purple color of Ube cake comes from the natural pigments found in the ube yam.
5. Question: Is Ube cake sweet?
Answer: Yes, Ube cake is mildly sweet, with a delightful balance of flavors from the ube yam and other ingredients.
6. Question: What is the origin of Ube cake?
Answer: Ube cake has its roots in Filipino cuisine, where the ube yam is a staple ingredient. It has gained popularity globally due to its unique color and taste.
7. Question: Can I use artificial coloring instead of ube yam?
Answer: While artificial coloring can be used to mimic the purple hue, the authentic flavor and nutritional value of ube yam are best retained when using the real ingredient.
8. Question: What is macapuno, and why is it used in Ube cake?
Answer: Macapuno refers to a type of sweetened coconut meat used in Filipino desserts. It adds a delightful texture and flavor contrast to Ube cake.
9. Question: What frosting is typically used for Ube cake?
Answer: Ube cake is often paired with Italian Buttercream, which complements the cake’s flavors and textures.
10. Question: Can I find Ube cake in bakeries or restaurants?
Answer: Yes, Ube cake has gained popularity in many places, and you can often find it in Filipino bakeries, restaurants, and even some general bakeries that offer diverse dessert options.