There’s something utterly captivating about the vibrant color of Ube Crinkle Cookies, a delightful twist on a classic treat that transports me straight to the heart of Filipino-American festivities. Every time I whip up a batch, the kitchen fills with the sweet, nutty aroma of ube halaya, reminiscent of family gatherings and celebrations. These cookies are not just a feast for the eyes—they are a soft, chewy wonder, blending subtle notes of vanilla and pistachio that keep everyone coming back for more.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in an afternoon delight, these Ube Crinkle Cookies make every bite feel like a celebration. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to impress friends and family with little effort. So, let’s dive into this colorful adventure and transform your next baking session into a moment to remember!
Why are Ube Crinkle Cookies so special?
Vibrant Color: The striking purple hue of ube brings a visual delight that’s sure to impress your guests.
Unique Flavor: Enjoy the harmonious blend of vanilla and pistachio notes that create a memorable taste with every bite.
Easy to Make: These cookies come together quickly, perfect for both experienced bakers and those just starting out.
Crowd-Pleaser: They’re not only beautiful but also delicious, making them a hit at gatherings, parties, or family events.
Versatile Treat: Serve them warm with a glass of milk, or use them to elevate your dessert table—either way, they’ll shine!
Indulge in the magic of these Ube Crinkle Cookies, and watch as they bring smiles and joy to everyone around!
Ube Crinkle Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-purpose flour – Structure; you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Baking powder – A leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Kosher salt – Enhances flavor; regular salt can work, but adjust measurements for balance.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and texture; substitute with brown sugar for extra moisture.
• Unsalted butter (at room temperature) – Provides richness and moisture; margarine can be used as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor.
• Large egg (at room temperature) – Binds the ingredients; replace with a flax egg for a vegan version.
• Ube halaya jam (at room temperature) – The key flavor contributor; coconut or raspberry jam can be substituted but will change the cookie’s color and taste.
• Purple food coloring – Enhances visual appeal; feel free to omit for a more natural appearance.
• Ube extract – Intensifies the ube flavor; use vanilla extract for a slightly different taste.
• Pure vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor; can be omitted for a stronger ube profile.
For the Coating
• Confectioners’ sugar – Perfect for coating the cookies; opt for powdered erythritol for a low-calorie substitute.
Dive into this colorful baking adventure with the delightful ingredients for Ube Crinkle Cookies, and let the sweet magic unfold!
How to Make Ube Crinkle Cookies
-
Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup!
-
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt until well combined. This blend will give your cookies structure and flavor!
-
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, beat the granulated sugar and unsalted butter together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for that delightful texture!
-
Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the room-temperature egg and mix until just combined. Then, add the ube halaya jam, purple food coloring, ube extract, and pure vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is uniform in color.
-
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. You want a smooth dough that holds together nicely.
-
Coat Cookie Dough: Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll each ball in confectioners’ sugar until fully coated. This sugary shell creates that signature crinkle effect!
-
Bake: Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
-
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up nicely!
Optional: Serve warm with a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee for a delightful treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Ube Crinkle Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Ube Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature; this ensures they remain soft and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 1 week. Just make sure to store them in a sealed container to prevent moisture loss.
Freezer: For best results, freeze the cookie dough (formed into balls) for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, coat in confectioners’ sugar and bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Reheating: Reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back their soft, chewy texture; serve warm for a delightful treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Ube Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply form the cookie balls, roll them in confectioners’ sugar, and refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful cookies, preheat your oven and bake the chilled dough directly—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold. By prepping ahead, you’ll have fresh, soft cookies that are just as delicious and ready to impress your family or guests with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Ube Crinkle Cookies?
Enjoying these colorful treats opens up a world of savory and sweet pairings that transform an ordinary occasion into a delightful feast.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds refreshing sweetness, beautifully balancing the cookies’ rich flavors. Nothing beats the burst of juicy fruits with each bite of cookie!
-
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the soft, chewy nature of the Ube Crinkle Cookies perfectly. It’s a delightful marriage of warm and cold that everyone will love.
-
Honey-Cinnamon Glazed Nuts: Crunchy nuts with a sweet honey-cinnamon glaze provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts the cookies’ softness. This nibble makes great party treats or afternoon snacks alongside the cookies.
-
Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy treat, enhancing the delicious experience with every sip. The chocolate’s richness pairs beautifully with the ube’s unique flavors.
-
Matcha Green Tea: The earthy notes of matcha green tea beautifully contrast the sweet nuttiness of the ube cookies. This pairing is delightful, especially during afternoon tea with friends.
-
Coconut Milk Latte: A smooth coconut milk latte with subtle sweetness elevates the overall taste experience. This creamy drink is perfect for complementing the unique taste of ube, creating a tropical vibe.
-
Coconut Macaroon Bars: These chewy coconut bars bring additional texture and flavor while maintaining a similar taste profile. Their sweetness provides a harmonious box of treats, enhancing your dessert offerings.
-
Powdered Sugar Dusted Doughnuts: Light and fluffy doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar make for a whimsical sweet treat to share with your Ube Crinkle Cookies. Everyone will be reaching for a second serving with this delightful combination!
Ube Crinkle Cookies Variations
Don’t be afraid to play and personalize your cookies; there’s a world of delicious options waiting for you!
-
Chocolate Chip: Add semi-sweet or white chocolate chips for a decadent twist that elevates each bite. The creamy chocolate complements the nutty ube flavor beautifully.
-
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for a delightful crunch. The nutty elements bring texture contrast while enhancing the cookie’s flavor profile.
-
Flavor Boost: Swap in almond extract for a fragrant twist that pairs perfectly with the ube. This variation adds a whole new layer of delightful complexity to every cookie.
-
Jelly Center: Create a surprise by adding a dollop of your favorite jelly in the center before baking. Raspberry or coconut jam works wonderfully; it adds a zesty burst to each bite.
-
Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the dough. This unexpected kick highlights the sweetness of the ube and adds an exciting depth.
-
Lemon Zest: Grate some fresh lemon zest into the dough for a bright, citrusy note. The acidity of lemon balances the sweetness of the ube beautifully for a refreshing treat.
-
Cocoa Swirl: For a dual-flavored masterpiece, split the dough in half and mix cocoa powder into one portion. Swirl them together for stunning marbled cookies that are as pretty as they are tasty.
-
Matcha Twist: Incorporate matcha powder into the dough for an earthy contrast. These green-hued cookies add a beautiful presentation and delightful flavor to your dessert table.
Unleash your creativity and let your taste buds guide you on this delightful journey of flavors!
Expert Tips for Ube Crinkle Cookies
-
Creaming Matters: Ensure you beat the butter and sugar until fluffy; this creates a light texture that makes all the difference in your Ube Crinkle Cookies.
-
Oven Temperature Check: Always verify your oven temperature with an oven thermometer; accurate baking is key to achieving the perfect cookie texture.
-
Chilling for Success: If your dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes before scooping and coating to make the rolling process easier.
-
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ube halaya jam and extract for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients elevate your cookies and leave a lasting impression.
-
Coating Technique: Roll each dough ball in confectioners’ sugar thoroughly to ensure even coating, which gives those iconic crinkles after baking.
-
Storage Solutions: Store your Ube Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days, or freeze the dough for cookie freshness anytime!
Ube Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ube halaya jam?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend looking for authentic Filipino brands of ube halaya jam. Check the ingredient list to ensure it contains real purple yam and minimal additives. If the jar has a rich purple color and a sweet, nutty aroma, you’re on the right track!
What is the best way to store Ube Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your Ube Crinkle Cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just remember to keep them sealed tightly to prevent any moisture loss!
Can I freeze cookie dough for Ube Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely, freezing the cookie dough is a fantastic idea! Start by portioning the dough into balls and then roll each in confectioners’ sugar. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet in the freezer for about 1 hour. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—simply coat in more confectioners’ sugar and bake for a minute or two longer.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, don’t worry! Just pop it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. Chilling the dough not only helps reduce stickiness but also improves the flavor and texture. After chilling, it will be much easier to scoop, shape, and coat in powdered sugar!
Are Ube Crinkle Cookies safe for people with allergies?
While Ube Crinkle Cookies are delicious, they do contain gluten and dairy. For gluten-free options, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re catering to dairy allergies, consider replacing unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative. Just ensure that your substitutes maintain similar moisture levels for the best results. Remember to always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet specific dietary needs.
How long do Ube Crinkle Cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly, Ube Crinkle Cookies will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you’re hoping to enjoy them longer, refrigerating extends their life to about a week. Always store them in an airtight container to keep their texture just right!
Remember, the more the merrier, so share the joy of these vibrant cookies with friends and family!
Delicious Ube Crinkle Cookies Your Taste Buds Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt until well combined.
- In a stand mixer, beat the granulated sugar and unsalted butter together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the room-temperature egg and mix until just combined. Then, add the ube halaya jam, purple food coloring, ube extract, and pure vanilla extract, mixing until uniform.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth dough forms.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll each ball in confectioners' sugar until fully coated.
- Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.