Name: Warm and Cheesy Ube Pandesal Filled with Joy
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 160 min
Ingredients: 4 cups All-Purpose Flour; 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (or instant yeast); 1 cup Warm Milk (around 110°F); 1 tablespoon White Sugar; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 large Egg; 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil; 1/2 cup Ube Halaya (Purple Yam Jam) (substitute with ube powder if needed); 1 teaspoon Ube Extract (optional); 16 cubes Cubed Cheddar Cheese (or cheese of choice); 1 cup Plain Breadcrumbs

As I strolled through a bustling Filipino market, the vibrant purple xUbe caught my eye, igniting memories of my grandmother’s kitchen. That enchanting color transforms into the soft, cheesy Ube Pandesal with Cheese Filling, a delightful homage to Filipino cuisine. These fluffy rolls are perfect for any occasion, boasting a sweet-savory combination that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re a longtime fan of ube or discovering it for the first time, you’ll be charmed by how effortlessly they elevate your brunch table or afternoon snack. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, ensuring you can always have a cheesy bite of nostalgia ready to enjoy. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create something special? Let’s dive into the warmth of homemade Ube Pandesal!

Why is Ube Pandesal So Special?

Nostalgic Delight: These cheesy Ube Pandesal rolls bring back fond memories of family gatherings and warm kitchens. Each bite transports you to the heart of Filipino culture.

Fluffy Texture: The rolls are incredibly soft, light, and airy, creating a comforting experience that rivals any dish.

Cheesy Surprise: A creamy, melted cheese center adds a delightful contrast to the sweet, fragrant ube, making every roll a treat!

Versatile Treat: Perfect for brunch, snacks, or even dessert, these rolls fit seamlessly into any meal or occasion, just like a Pumpkin Cream Cheese would.

Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time, and you’ll always have a quick and delicious snack on hand, perfect for unexpected guests or those cozy afternoons.

Showcase of Flavor: Ube enhances not only the color but also the unique taste, ensuring you impress anyone who tries them!

Ube Pandesal with Cheese Filling Ingredients

These delightful rolls are packed with flavors and surprises!

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for gluten-free, consider a gluten-free blend.
Active Dry Yeast – Helps the dough rise for fluffy rolls; instant yeast can speed up the process.
Warm Milk – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s around 110°F for best results.
White Sugar – Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast to help it bloom.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the yeast activity.
Large Egg – Adds richness and moisture to create tender rolls.
Vegetable Oil – Ensures tenderness and keeps the dough pliable.
Ube Halaya (Purple Yam Jam) – Infuses the rolls with ube flavor and color; can substitute with ube powder.
Ube Extract – Intensifies both flavor and vibrant color; optional, but enhances the ube experience.

For the Filling

Cubed Cheddar Cheese (or cheese of choice) – Offers a creamy, savory center; choose a cheese that melts well.

For the Coating

Plain Breadcrumbs – Adds a crispy texture to the rolls once baked, making them extra delightful!

Enjoy making these Ube Pandesal with Cheese Filling as a special treat for your family and friends.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Pandesal with Cheese Filling

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (around 110°F), 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of white sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is activated. This is a crucial step in making your Ube Pandesal with Cheese Filling airy and light.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 1/2 cup of ube halaya, and optional ube extract until smooth and well combined. This mixture will provide the core flavor and moisture needed for soft, delightful rolls. Make sure there are no lumps in the ube halaya to ensure even texture in your dough.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures to Form Dough
Gradually mix the frothy yeast mixture into the ube blend, and then add 1 teaspoon of salt and 3 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Stir until the flour is fully incorporated, then switch to kneading your dough by hand or using a stand mixer for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, a sign it’s ready for the next rise.

Step 4: First Rise
Place your kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and set it in a warm place to rise for approximately 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This initial rise helps create those fluffy textures in your Ube Pandesal. Check for a slight bounce back when you gently poke the dough; it’s perfect!

Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces, then flatten each piece with your hand. Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center of each flattened dough, fold the edges over, and pinch to seal tightly. This step is essential for ensuring that the cheese stays hidden inside the rolls.

Step 6: Prepare for Second Rise
Roll each sealed ball in plain breadcrumbs for a delightful crispy outer texture. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking tray, spaced apart. Cover the tray loosely with a kitchen towel, allowing the rolls to rise again for about 30-40 minutes, or until noticeably puffed. This final rise enhances the overall fluffiness of your Ube Pandesal.

Step 7: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is fully heated, bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes, until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as the delightful aroma fills your kitchen; it’s a good sign they’re nearing completion! You’ll know they’re done when they sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the Ube Pandesal with Cheese Filling from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to enjoy. Once slightly cooled, serve them warm for the best experience, and revel in that cheesy, fluffy goodness!

Expert Tips for Ube Pandesal with Cheese Filling

Check the Yeast: Always ensure your yeast is fresh by confirming it bubbles in warm milk. An inactive yeast can lead to dense rolls.
Perfect Dough Texture: Knead your dough until it’s smooth and elastic to develop gluten, ensuring each roll is light and fluffy.
Avoid Over- or Under-Rising: Pay close attention to rising times; don’t rush your dough but also prevent it from rising too much, which can deflate the rolls.
Customize Your Cheese: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or cream cheese for variations in flavor; just ensure it melts well for that lovely cheesy center.
Freezing Tips: To keep Ube Pandesal with Cheese Filling fresh, freeze them individually, and simply reheat in the oven when needed for a quick snack.

Ube Pandesal Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and let your taste buds guide you to new delights!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose to cater to gluten-sensitive family members.
Sweet Twist: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, aromatic flavor. You might find it gives a cozy vibe, perfect for autumn gatherings.
Flavorful Cheese: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, cream cheese, or even a spicy pepper jack to elevate the cheesy surprise. Each cheese offers its unique character, making it a fun exploration of flavors.
Coconut Delight: Fold in some shredded coconut to the dough for an extra layer of sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the ube beautifully.
Savory Varieties: Try incorporating herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic twist. The unexpected herbaceous notes provide a delightful contrast to the slightly sweet ube.
Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the dough before forming the rolls for an added crunch and deeper flavor.
Fruity Options: Mix in crushed pineapple for a tropical flair that pairs wonderfully with ube, akin to a refreshing summer picnic treat.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the dough to create a sweet and spicy harmony you’re sure to enjoy.

These variations open doors to countless delightful possibilities—just like how a warm plate of Lemon Chicken Soup brings comfort, let your Ube Pandesal journey explore the beautiful diversity of flavors!

How to Store and Freeze Ube Pandesal

Room Temperature: Store leftover Ube Pandesal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but note that refrigeration may slightly change the texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months without losing their delightful taste.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen Ube Pandesal in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty.

What to Serve With Cheesy Ube Pandesal Rolls

There’s nothing like a warm, fluffy roll filled with cheese to make your meal feel complete and comforting.

Buttery Garlic Rice: The rich, buttery flavor of garlic-infused rice pairs perfectly with the sweet notes of ube while adding a savory touch.
Sweet Chili Mango Salad: A mix of juicy mangoes, vibrant peppers, and a zesty dressing accentuates the subtle sweetness of your Ube Pandesal, offering a refreshing contrast.
Coconut Milk Latte: This creamy, slightly sweet drink enhances the flavors of ube, making it an ideal companion for your rolls during brunch or snack time.
Savory Chicken Adobo: The tangy and savory profile of this classic Filipino dish complements the sweet-savory balance of your cheesy rolls, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Green Tea: The light, floral notes of green tea serve as a soothing beverage choice to cleanse the palate and elevate the entire dining experience.
Mango Sticky Rice: A luscious dessert with sticky rice topped with creamy coconut sauce and sweet mango that echoes the tropical vibe of ube, rounding off your meal on a sweet note.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Ube Pandesal rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until Step 6, then place the shaped rolls on a baking tray, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow the rolls to rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes while preheating the oven. This method ensures they maintain their soft texture and cheesy surprise. If you have leftovers, you can store the baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage and reheat in the oven just before serving to retain their delightful flavors.

Ube Pandesal with Cheese Filling Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ube for making Ube Pandesal?
Absolutely! When selecting ube, look for firm, unblemished tubers without dark spots or wrinkles. The skin should be smooth, which indicates freshness. If you opt for ube halaya (purple yam jam), ensure it has a rich, vibrant color and a sweet aroma—both are signs of quality!

What is the best way to store Ube Pandesal?
You can store Ube Pandesal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week, though this can alter the texture slightly. The best method is freezing; wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months!

How do I freeze Ube Pandesal properly?
To freeze Ube Pandesal, first allow the rolls to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag, expelling as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat from frozen by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and baking for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty.

What should I do if my Ube Pandesal turns out dense?
Very! If your rolls turn out dense, check the yeast’s expiration date; old yeast may not activate properly. Also, ensure that your dough is kneaded enough to develop its gluten, which is crucial for a light texture. Give the dough adequate time to rise—don’t rush the process. If you see it hasn’t puffed up well, allow more rising time until it doubles in size.

Can I make Ube Pandesal with a cheese substitute for dietary reasons?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the cheese. Options like dairy-free cheese or nut cheeses can work well. Just ensure that whatever cheese alternative you choose has melting properties so you can still enjoy that creamy center. Enjoying the flavors of Ube Pandesal while respecting dietary needs is totally possible!

Is Ube Pandesal safe for pets like dogs and cats?
Very! While Ube is generally safe in moderation, it’s best not to feed your pets Ube Pandesal due to the sugar and yeast content. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet to ensure safety.