Name: Ube Crinkle Cookies: Soft, Chewy Filipino Delights You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 88 min
Ingredients: 1 cup softened butter or coconut oil (Use coconut oil for dairy-free); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 cup ube halaya or ube jam (Choose one with a pronounced nutty taste); 1 teaspoon ube extract (Add more for a stronger flavor); 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour or regular all-purpose flour (Choose based on dietary needs); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar for rolling; 1/2 cup powdered sugar

As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant purple hue of ube halaya caught my eye, sparking a sudden craving for something sweet and unique. Enter Ube Crinkle Cookies—these delightful treats offer an irresistible combination of chewy texture and nutty flavors that make every bite a joyful experience. Easy to whip up and perfect for both celebrations and cozy afternoons, these cookies are a great way to impress family and friends while indulging in something a little different. Plus, with options for gluten-free and dairy-free substitutions, you can share the love without worrying about dietary restrictions. Are you ready to bring the enchanting world of Filipino flavors into your kitchen? Let’s dive into making these colorful delights!

Why Are Ube Crinkle Cookies Irresistible?

Unique Color and Flavor: The stunning purple of ube halaya not only makes these cookies visually appealing but adds a delicious nutty flavor that sets them apart from other sweets.
Fun Baking Project: Easy to prepare, these cookies are a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, whether you’re baking solo or with loved ones.
Dietary Flexibility: With gluten-free and dairy-free options available, you can enjoy these treats without compromising dietary preferences. Consider pairing them with a glass of milk or trying a delightful Chocolate Chip Cookies dessert for variety!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings or special occasions, their delightful texture and taste will surely impress family and friends.
Store and Enjoy: Plus, with simple storage tips, you can enjoy these treats fresh for days! Don’t miss out on this flavorful, colorful addition to your baking repertoire.

Ube Crinkle Cookies Ingredients

• Whip up a batch of these vibrant cookies with this essential ingredient list!

For the Dough

Softened Butter or Coconut Oil – Adds richness and moisture; choose coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and creates that delightful crackle when rolled.
Egg – Serves as a binding agent, ensuring a lovely chewy texture in every bite.
Ube Halaya or Ube Jam – Offers a unique flavor and stunning color; opt for one with a pronounced nutty taste for the best results.
Ube Extract – Boosts the ube flavor; feel free to add a little more for a punchy taste.
Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour or Regular All-Purpose Flour – Choose based on dietary needs while keeping the texture deliciously intact.
Baking Powder – Provides the leavening that helps the cookies rise and puff up beautifully.
Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

For Coating

Granulated Sugar for Rolling – Gives a sparkly finish, making each cookie visually inviting.
Powdered Sugar – Dust on top for a beautiful, snowy appearance that makes these cookies a showstopper.

Now that you have everything you need to create delightful Ube Crinkle Cookies, let your kitchen resonate with the warming aromas of baked goodness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Whip Together
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together granulated sugar and softened butter or coconut oil on medium speed for 3-5 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates a rich base for our Ube Crinkle Cookies, enhancing both texture and flavor. Ensure the butter or coconut oil is soft enough to blend smoothly.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, incorporate the egg, ube halaya, and ube extract into the mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is well-combined and the batter transforms into a vibrant purple hue. This step infuses our cookies with that distinct ube flavor and color, making the dough irresistibly appealing.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sea salt to the wet mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a thick, cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until you see no dry flour left. This dough will be the foundation of our delicious Ube Crinkle Cookies.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
Flatten the dough into a disk shape, wrap it in plastic wrap, and freeze for 1 hour. Chilling is crucial for achieving that signature crackled surface on the cookies, so be patient! Once chilled, the dough will be firmer and easier to handle, ensuring perfect shapes.

Step 5: Preheat Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prepares your cooking environment, ensuring the Ube Crinkle Cookies bake evenly and come off the baking sheet effortlessly. Having the oven ready is key to achieving that lovely puff and crackle.

Step 6: Prepare Coatings
In two separate bowls, place granulated sugar in one and powdered sugar in the other. These will coat the cookies and create that appealing contrast of textures. Set them aside; you’ll be rolling the chilled dough soon, enhancing both the visual and taste experience of your Ube Crinkle Cookies.

Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once the dough has chilled, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of chilled dough and roll it into a ball. First, roll the ball in granulated sugar to coat it, then gently roll it in powdered sugar, ensuring an even layer covers the surface. This step not only adds sweetness but also creates that beautiful crinkled effect when baked.

Step 8: Bake Cookies
Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, giving them space to spread. Bake in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes, or until the cookies are puffed and have a crackly top. Keep a close eye on them; removing them at the right time ensures they stay soft and chewy inside.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes after baking. This resting time lets them set properly. Afterward, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. For an extra touch, dust with more powdered sugar before serving, making your Ube Crinkle Cookies look delightful and inviting!

Make Ahead Options

These Ube Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and then chilling it in the refrigerator. Ensure the dough is wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the chilled dough into balls, coating them in sugar, then bake as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, freshly-baked cookies with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy sweet treats on demand without the hassle!

Expert Tips for Ube Crinkle Cookies

Chill the Dough: Ensure your dough is fully chilled for at least 1 hour to achieve that signature crackled texture on your Ube Crinkle Cookies.
Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. This helps maintain consistency, especially important in baking.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Over-baking can lead to dryness, so remove them when they’re puffed but still soft.
Manage Stickiness: If your dough feels too sticky, chill it longer or gradually add extra flour until you reach a manageable consistency.
Decorative Touch: For an appealing presentation, roll the cookies twice—first in granulated sugar and then in powdered sugar—to create a beautiful, snow-dusted appearance.

What to Serve with Ube Crinkle Cookies

Create a delightful experience that pairs beautifully with the nostalgic flavors of these vibrant cookies.

Rich Chocolate Ganache: A silky chocolate ganache adds a luxurious touch, drizzling it over the cookies elevates each bite.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this dairy-free option enhances the nutty flavor of ube, making for a refreshing complement.
Tropical Fruit Salad: Fresh tropical fruits like mango and pineapple add brightness and acidity, balancing the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
Ice-cold Coconut Milk: Chilled coconut milk serves as a creamy counterpart, enhancing the tropical vibe and making every bite a celebration.
Coffee or Espresso: Strong coffee or espresso cuts through the sweetness while providing a comforting warmth that pairs well with ube’s nutty notes.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream adds creamy richness, creating a delightful warm-cold contrast with the freshly baked cookies.
Matcha Latte: The earthy flavor of matcha offers an intriguing contrast, while its creamy texture pairs beautifully with the sweetness of ube.
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds an elegant sweetness, enhancing the complex flavors without overpowering them.
Spiced Chai: The aromatic spices in chai create a perfect fusion of flavors, whisking you away on a delightful flavor journey that elevates the cookies.

How to Store and Freeze Ube Crinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your Ube Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste and texture!

Fridge: If you want your cookies to last a bit longer, store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just note, they may lose some of their original chewiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container, so they don’t stick together.

Reheating: When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw the cookies in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. To warm them, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Enjoy the delightful chewiness!

Ube Crinkle Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Ube Crinkle Cookies! Discover delightful twists that can elevate the experience.

Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour to keep these cookies safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Coconut Oil: Swap the softened butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, adding a slight coconut flavor.
Vegan Option: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) instead of an egg for a completely vegan treat!
Extra Flavor: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough to spice things up; it brings warmth and depth to the ube flavor.
Color Twist: Create swirls by mixing in a bit of beet juice or green matcha for a vibrant cookie medley—fun for kids and adults alike!

Transform your Ube Crinkle Cookies into a different flavor experience while maintaining the beloved chewy texture. And if you’re curious to explore more delightful cookies, give these Marshmallow Swirl Cookies a try for a fluffy surprise! Each variation brings a unique twist that can resonate with your taste buds like no other treat.

Ube Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of ube should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using ube halaya or ube jam with a rich, nutty flavor. This will greatly enhance the taste of your Ube Crinkle Cookies. If you’re making a substitution, ensure the alternative also offers a strong ube flavor profile.

How should I store baked Ube Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their delicious life, they can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. Just keep in mind that refrigeration may slightly alter their chewy texture.

Can I freeze Ube Crinkle Cookies?
Very! You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Simply layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and for an extra cozy experience, warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries at all! If you find your dough a bit too sticky to handle, simply chill it longer—aim for an additional 30 minutes in the freezer. If it’s still sticky once chilled, gradually add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches a manageable consistency.

Are Ube Crinkle Cookies safe for my pets?
While Ube Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat for humans, it’s important to note that they aren’t suitable for pets. Ingredients like sugar and chocolate are harmful to animals, so it’s best to stick to pet-friendly snacks for your furry friends!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply replace regular all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. This way, everyone can enjoy the scrumptious goodness of your Ube Crinkle Cookies!