Name: Heavenly Ube Leche Flan Cake: The Perfect Sweet Indulgence
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 810 min
Ingredients: 200 g granulated sugar (Creates a luscious sweetness and glossy finish.); 6 pieces egg yolks (Provides rich creaminess.); 320 g condensed milk (Adds sweetness to the flan.); 350 ml evaporated milk (Lightens the flan.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Infuses flavor into the flan.); 1/8 teaspoon salt (Balances the sweetness.); 3 pieces egg whites (Whipped for light texture.); 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (Stabilizes egg whites.); 60 g granulated sugar (cake batter) (Sweetens the cake.); 3 pieces egg yolks (cake batter) (Adds color and richness.); 40 ml vegetable oil (Keeps cake moist.); 50 ml cold water (Keeps the batter airy.); 1 tablespoon ube extract (Provides flavor and color.); 100 g plain flour (Composes the cake structure.); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (Helps the cake rise.); 1/8 teaspoon salt (Enhances flavor.)

There’s something magical about the vibrant purple hue of ube that transports me back to the sun-kissed days of my childhood. With this Ube Leche Flan Cake, I’ve discovered a delightful way to blend nostalgia with culinary creativity. Imagine sinking your fork into a fluffy ube cake, only to uncover a silky layer of creamy leche flan beneath. This Filipino dessert not only impresses with its stunning presentation but also offers the comfort of home-cooked goodness. Both a crowd-pleaser for gatherings and a joyful surprise for quiet evenings, its quick prep will have you savoring the sweet aroma filling your kitchen in no time. Can you resist making this layered delight for your next special occasion?

Why is Ube Leche Flan Cake a Must-Try?

Impressive Presentation: This cake’s vibrant purple color and glossy caramel top make it a showstopper at any gathering.

Nostalgic Flavors: Experience the familiar and comforting taste of ube combined with the richness of leche flan, evoking memories of home-cooked meals.

Simple Steps: The recipe is straightforward, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a creative challenge.

Versatile Variations: Whether you prefer a tropical coconut twist or a chocolate delight, this cake readily adapts to your cravings.

Quick & Efficient: With some prep and overnight chilling, you can whip up this delightful dessert without any fuss, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones.

Transform your dessert game and impress your guests with this decadent Ube Leche Flan Cake. Want more delights? Check out my Lemon Poppy Cake or the irresistible Oreo Cheesecake Cookie!

Ube Leche Flan Cake Ingredients

For the Caramel
• 200g granulated sugar – This sugar creates a luscious sweetness and glossy finish for the caramel layer.

For the Flan
• 6 egg yolks – Provides a rich creaminess essential for the flan’s texture.
• 320g condensed milk – Adds the rich sweetness needed for a delightful flan.
• 350ml evaporated milk – Lightens the flan while keeping it beautifully smooth.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Infuses warm flavor into the flan, enhancing the overall taste.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness, elevating the flan’s flavor profile.

For the Cake
• 3 egg whites – Whipped to provide light texture to the cake itself.
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar – Stabilizes whipped egg whites, ensuring they maintain their fluffiness.
• 60g granulated sugar (cake batter) – Sweetens the cake, contributing to its tenderness.
• 3 egg yolks (cake batter) – Adds color and richness to the cake batter.
• 40ml vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender, making every bite delightful.
• 50ml cold water – Ensures the batter remains light and airy.
• 1 tablespoon ube extract – Provides both flavor and the vibrant purple color that makes this cake signature.
• 100g plain flour – Composes the structure of the cake.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor, tying all components together beautifully.

Combine these ingredients to create a stunning Ube Leche Flan Cake that will not only impress visually but also satisfy your sweet cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Leche Flan Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is crucial as it ensures even baking for your Ube Leche Flan Cake. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare your baking equipment, including an 8-inch round cake tin for the layered dessert.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel
In a medium saucepan, gently heat 200g of granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color, approximately 10 minutes. Once ready, pour the caramel into the bottom of your prepared cake tin, allowing it to set while you mix the flan ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Flan Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 egg yolks, 320g of condensed milk, 350ml of evaporated milk, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to eliminate any lumps, then pour it carefully over the set caramel in the cake tin, creating a smooth layer for your Ube Leche Flan Cake.

Step 4: Whip Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, add 3 egg whites and 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes foamy. Gradually add in 60g of sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. This fluffy mixture will give your cake its light texture, so set it aside for later use.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the remaining 3 egg yolks and 60g of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add 40ml of vegetable oil, 50ml of cold water, and 1 tablespoon of ube extract, mixing until well incorporated. This rich batter will be the base of your cake.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift together 100g of plain flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt in a separate bowl. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the ube batter, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which could inhibit the cake’s rise.

Step 7: Fold in Egg Whites
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the ube batter using a spatula. This step is essential for achieving a light and fluffy cake. Once combined, pour the cake batter over the flan mixture in the cake tin, ensuring a lovely two-layer effect.

Step 8: Set Up Water Bath
Prepare a water bath to ensure even baking by placing the cake tin into a roasting tray. Carefully fill the roasting tray with boiling water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake tin. This method helps to keep the flan creamy while cooking the cake evenly.

Step 9: Bake
Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should appear golden and slightly puffed.

Step 10: Cool and Chill
Once baked, remove the Ube Leche Flan Cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin at room temperature. After about 1 hour, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill overnight. This waiting period helps meld the flavors and makes it easier to remove from the tin for serving.

Ube Leche Flan Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Ube Leche Flan Cake! Each variation enhances the flavor and character of this beloved dessert.

Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the flan for tropical notes, bringing a sunny burst of flavor to your dessert. Each bite will transport you to a breezy island getaway.
Chocolate Delight: Incorporate cocoa powder into the cake batter for a deliciously rich chocolate flavor. This delightful addition will create a classic chocolate-flan fusion, like a treat from a bakery!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for added texture. The crunchiness will contrast beautifully with the creamy layers, making every forkful interesting.
Citrus Zest: Mix in citrus zest, like lemon or orange, into the flan for a refreshing brightness. This variation not only enhances the flavor but adds a lovely aromatic quality, making the cake even more inviting.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute both types of milk with coconut milk or another plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version. You won’t lose the creaminess, and the coconut will add a hint of tropical charm.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the flan to offer a warm, comforting flavor element. These spices will infuse the cake with a cozy aroma, making it perfect for fall or winter gatherings.
Fruit Fusion: Top your cake with fresh fruit like berries, mangoes, or even lychee for a colorful garnish and added flavor contrast. Not only does it elevate the presentation, but it also offers a refreshing burst of taste with each slice.

Speaking of delightful desserts, if you’re in the mood for something refreshing yet indulgent, don’t miss my luscious Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake or the delectable Halloween Vampire Bite Cupcakes!

How to Store and Freeze Ube Leche Flan Cake

Room Temperature: Allow the cake to cool completely before covering it, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Avoid storing at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Fridge: Store leftover Ube Leche Flan Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the creamy texture of the flan while maintaining the cake’s lightness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw slices in the fridge overnight, then enjoy them cold or gently microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them slightly warmed.

Make Ahead Options

These Ube Leche Flan Cakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to impress guests with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the caramel and flan layers up to 24 hours in advance; just cover the cake tin tightly with plastic wrap after pouring the flan mixture over the caramel. Additionally, you can bake the entire cake and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, make sure to let the cake cool completely at room temperature before chilling it, as this prevents condensation. When ready to serve, simply slice the cake and enjoy the delightful layers of ube and flan, ensuring every bite remains just as delicious as when it was fresh!

Expert Tips for Ube Leche Flan Cake

Perfect Caramel: Ensure your sugar melts evenly without stirring too much; this prevents crystallization, giving you a smooth caramel layer for the Ube Leche Flan Cake.
Straining Flan: Always strain the flan mixture to eliminate any lumps, ensuring a silky texture that enhances the overall creaminess of the dessert.
Gentle Folding: Use a gentle folding motion when combining egg whites into the batter. This technique maintains the airiness of the cake, creating that light, fluffy texture.
Water Bath Wisdom: Make sure the water bath covers the cake tin halfway; this will keep it moist while baking, preventing cracking on the surface of your flan.
Chill for Best Flavor: Allow the cake to chill overnight in the refrigerator. This not only improves the flavor but also makes it easier to cut when ready to serve.

What to Serve with Ube Leche Flan Cake

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience that brightens your table, enhancing the creamy sweetness of this beloved dessert.

Fresh Berries: Their tartness balances the richness of the flan, adding a burst of flavor and color that complements the gorgeous layers.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream provides a light, airy contrast that enhances the creamy texture of the cake, truly elevating each bite.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats introduce a tropical flair, echoing the cake’s ube flavor while bringing an enjoyable texture to the dessert experience.
Coffee or Espresso: A cup of rich coffee enhances the dessert’s flavors. The bitter notes of coffee beautifully contrast the sweet layers, creating an irresistible combination.
Mango Sorbet: The refreshing chill of mango sorbet balances the cake’s sweetness and extends the tropical vibe, making it a refreshing palate cleanser.
Lemon Curd: Serve with a dollop of zesty lemon curd for a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the creaminess, adding a delightful twist to your dessert plate.
Toasted Nuts: Sprinkling chopped toasted almonds or pistachios on top adds a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile and providing a satisfying bite.

Let your imagination run wild as you pair these delightful options with your Ube Leche Flan Cake, creating an unforgettable meal that will leave your guests raving!

Ube Leche Flan Cake Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe ube for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose ube that has a vibrant purple color and is firm to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or feel overly soft, as this may indicate overripeness, which could affect the flavor of your Ube Leche Flan Cake.

How should I store leftover Ube Leche Flan Cake?
You can store your leftover Ube Leche Flan Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flan creamy and the cake light, ensuring you enjoy every bite!

Can I freeze Ube Leche Flan Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual slices of the Ube Leche Flan Cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and serve cold.

What should I do if my flan layer is not set after baking?
If your flan layer hasn’t set, it may need more time in the oven with the water bath. Check it again after additional 10 minutes. The flan should jiggle slightly like gelatin, not be liquid. Remember to ensure the water bath is halfway up the sides of the cake tin for optimal baking.

Are there any allergenic ingredients in the Ube Leche Flan Cake?
Yes, this cake contains eggs, milk, and sugar, which are common allergens. For those with egg allergies, consider an egg replacer. The cake can also be made dairy-free by using plant-based milks and substitutes, making it a versatile option for varying dietary needs.

How can I ensure my caramel layer is perfect?
To achieve the ideal caramel for your Ube Leche Flan Cake, heat the sugar over medium heat without stirring too much—this prevents crystallization. Look for a deep amber color, which indicates it’s ready. If it’s burned, you’ll need to start fresh for the best flavor!