As I prepared for a small gathering, a nagging thought crept in—everyone loves those little cream puffs from upscale bakeries, right? That’s when it hit me: why not create my own version at home? Enter these delightful Ube Cream Puffs, featuring golden, crispy shells filled with a velvety ube custard. Not only do they let me indulge in a unique dessert, but they’re also surprisingly simple to whip up, making them a perfect crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking to impress friends or simply treat yourself, these pastries never fail to sparkle on any dessert table. So, are you ready to elevate your baking game and whip up something truly special?
Why Are Ube Cream Puffs Irresistible?
Unique Flavor: The vibrant ube custard filling offers a delightful twist on traditional cream puffs, bringing a nutty and sweet essence that’s hard to forget.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these impressive treats from scratch.
Perfect for Gatherings: These stunning pastries will elevate any gathering and are sure to impress your guests, making them the star of the dessert table.
Versatile Treat: Not just for special occasions, they make a fantastic snack or indulgent treat for your coffee breaks—perfect alongside a rich beverage like my Iced Pumpkin Cream.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Light, airy, and just the right amount of sweetness, these cream puffs cater to diverse palates, ensuring everyone will savor each bite.
Cultural Connection: Infusing your baking with the essence of Filipino dessert traditions means you’re not just making a snack; you’re sharing a cultural experience that’s both delicious and meaningful!
Ube Cream Puff Ingredients
• You won’t believe how easy these are to make at home!
For the Pastry Shells
- Butter – Provides richness and moisture; unsalted butter gives you better control over salt content.
- Milk – Adds creaminess to the dough; try whole milk for the best results or almond/oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Water – Essential for the right dough consistency; no substitutions recommended.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dough; use granulated sugar and tweak based on the sweetness of the ube halaya.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; kosher or sea salt works best.
- All-purpose Flour – Provides structure to the shells; a gluten-free blend can also be used.
- Eggs – Necessary for binding and lift; no substitutions as they are critical for puffing.
For the Ube Custard Filling
- Ube Halaya – The star of the filling, delivering that signature flavor; store-bought works wonderfully if you need convenience.
- Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious richness; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the filling; tapioca starch is a great alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; pure vanilla extract provides the best taste.
Optional Elements
- Powdered Sugar – For dusting, to add a touch of sweetness; this can be omitted if you prefer less sweetness.
Dive into making these delightful Ube Cream Puffs and watch them become the highlight of your dessert spread!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Cream Puffs
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in Saucepan
In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of whole milk, ½ cup of water, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts completely. Observe the bubbles forming; this indicates you’re ready for the next step to create a rich base for your Ube Cream Puffs.
Step 2: Mix in the Flour
Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and add in 1 cup of all-purpose flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon or spatula until a smooth dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 1-2 minutes. This crucial step ensures that your dough is properly cooked, ensuring the airy texture of your cream puffs.
Step 3: Cool and Add Eggs
Allow the dough to cool for about 5 minutes, so it’s warm but not hot. Next, add 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing vigorously after each addition until the dough becomes glossy and smooth. This step is vital for the rise, allowing your Ube Cream Puffs to puff up beautifully in the oven.
Step 4: Pipe onto Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a piping bag or a spoon, portion the dough into 2-inch rounds on the tray, leaving space between each mound for expansion. This is how your Ube Cream Puffs will take shape, so aim for uniformity to ensure even baking.
Step 5: Bake the Puffs
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. After the initial baking time, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes until the puffs are golden brown and crispy. Visual cues like a puffed-up shape and a crisp exterior will confirm that your Ube Cream Puffs are almost ready!
Step 6: Cool the Puffs
Once they’ve reached that delightful golden color, remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This cooling process takes about 10-15 minutes. Allowing them to cool completely is essential for filling them with the luscious ube custard later on.
Step 7: Prepare the Ube Filling
In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup of ube halaya, ½ cup of whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, ¼ cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 2 egg yolks. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, approximately 5-7 minutes. This dreamy custard filling is what makes your Ube Cream Puffs a delight.
Step 8: Chill the Filling
Remove the thickened filling from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a flavorful finish. Pour the filling into a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This cooling step helps the filling set up perfectly for stuffing your cream puffs.
Step 9: Fill the Puffs
Once the Ube Cream Puffs are completely cool and the filling is chilled, use a sharp knife to cut a small hole in the bottom or side of each puff. Fill a piping bag with the cooled ube filling and squeeze it into each pastry until filled, ensuring each bite is a flavorful surprise. This is the moment your pastries transform into delectable treats!
Step 10: Final Touch and Serve
If desired, dust the filled Ube Cream Puffs with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Serve these delightful pastries cold or at room temperature, and savor the lightness and vibrant flavor they offer. Your homemade Ube Cream Puffs are now ready to impress family and friends!
What to Serve with Ube Cream Puffs
Indulging in these delicately airy pastries opens up a world of delightful pairings to enhance your dessert experience.
- Fresh Berries: Their tartness perfectly balances the sweetness of ube, adding a refreshing burst with each bite.
- Coconut Milk Ice Cream: Creamy and rich, this dairy-free option brings a tropical vibe alongside the nutty ube custard.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A warm chocolate sauce adds depth and richness, creating a decadent contrast to the light cream puffs.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee complement the sweet ube filling, making for an elegant dessert pairing.
- Citrus Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley can cleanse your palate while enhancing the dessert’s sweetness without overwhelming it.
- Matcha Tea: This earthy flavor harmonizes beautifully with the nutty notes of ube—perfect for a tranquil afternoon treat.
- Mint Tea: Serving these puffs with a warm cup of mint tea brings an aromatic element that refreshes the senses.
- Mango Sorbet: The tropical sweetness of mango pairs wonderfully with the ube’s flavor, adding a colorful touch to your dessert table.
Enhance your ube cream puffs experience by pairing them with these versatile options, elevating the simple pleasure of this treat!
Ube Cream Puffs: Endless Customization
Feel free to let your creativity flow by customizing these delightful cream puffs with various flavors and dietary swaps that will excite your palate!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the filling. This creamy alternative maintains richness while catering to dairy-free diets.
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the dough. The puffs will still turn out light and airy—perfect for those with gluten sensitivities!
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Flavor Variation: Replace ube halaya with taro paste or a vibrant matcha custard for an unexpected twist. Each option brings its unique flair to the indulgent creamy filling, so taste-test to find your favorite!
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Extra Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle crushed nuts on top before filling. Walnuts or pistachios not only offer a delightful crunch, but they also complement the ube’s nutty notes beautifully.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for a warm, cozy flavor that will elevate your cream puffs, perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings.
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Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle a rich chocolate ganache over the filled puffs for a decadent twist. Pairing the rich chocolate with the nutty ube is a delicious, indulgent surprise!
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Mini Puffs: Pipe smaller rounds onto the baking sheet for bite-sized cream puffs. These mini versions are perfect for parties and can easily satisfy a group’s sweet tooth without overwhelming.
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Fruity Filling: Instead of ube, whip up a fresh fruit custard with pureed strawberries or mangoes. This twist adds a refreshing taste that’s light and perfect for summer get-togethers.
Feel free to explore these variations as you bake your own batch of ube cream puffs, and don’t forget to challenge the traditional limits of flavor—you might just discover a new favorite! And if you’re in the mood for more delectable dessert ideas, check out my recipes for Coconut Cream Pie or some delightful Iced Pumpkin Cream treats!
Expert Tips for Ube Cream Puffs
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Perfect Dough Texture: Ensure your dough is smooth before adding eggs. If it feels too wet, it can lead to flat puffs when baked.
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Right Baking Temperature: Start at a higher temperature to puff up the shells, then reduce it for even cooking, which is key for light Ube Cream Puffs.
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Chill the Filling: Allow the ube filling to cool completely before filling the puffs; this helps to prevent sogginess and enhances the flavor.
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Filling Technique: Use a piping bag with a small tip for easy and precise filling. Fill until you see the sides slightly swell, guaranteeing delicious bites.
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Serve Fresh: These cream puffs are best enjoyed fresh. While unfilled puffs can be frozen, filled ones should ideally be consumed within two days for best quality.
Make Ahead Options
These Ube Cream Puffs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the pastry shells up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake them, let them cool completely, and store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispiness. For the ube custard filling, you can make it up to 3 days ahead; just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to prevent it from thickening too much. When you’re ready to serve, fill the cooled puffs with the chilled custard, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy these delightful treats that are just as delicious as when fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Ube Cream Puffs
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Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, Ube Cream Puffs can stay at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but be sure to serve them promptly for optimal texture and taste.
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Fridge: Store filled Ube Cream Puffs in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Be mindful that chilling may slightly alter their crispness.
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Freezer: Unfilled Ube Cream Puffs can be frozen for up to 1 month. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. To enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to recrisp.
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Reheating: Always reheat the unfilled puffs to regain that delightful crunch. For filled puffs, consume them fresh, as freezing may affect the custard’s quality.
Ube Cream Puffs Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ube halaya?
Absolutely! When selecting ube halaya, look for a vibrant purple color and a smooth, creamy texture. Avoid products with dark spots or an overly grainy consistency, as these can indicate poor quality. If buying pre-made, check the ingredient list for natural ingredients; fewer additives often mean a better flavor.
How should I store leftover filled Ube Cream Puffs?
To maintain their freshness, store filled Ube Cream Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume them during this timeframe to savor the perfect balance of crisp and creamy!
Can I freeze unfilled Ube Cream Puffs?
Yes, you certainly can! Place unfilled Ube Cream Puffs in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will restore their delightful crunch!
What should I do if my cream puffs don’t puff up?
Very often, this can happen if the dough hasn’t been cooked adequately before adding the eggs, or if the oven temperature isn’t high enough at first. To troubleshoot, make sure your dough pulls away from the pan when you mix in the flour and that you start baking at 400°F (200°C). If problems persist, it might help to beat the eggs until they’re pale yellow before adding, as this helps incorporate more air for better puffing.
Are Ube Cream Puffs suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! Ube Cream Puffs contain eggs, butter, and heavy cream, which may not be suitable for those with dairy or egg allergies. If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, consider using dairy-free substitutes such as coconut cream for the filling and an egg replacement for the dough, though keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly.
How long can I keep unfilled cream puffs in the freezer?
You can keep unfilled Ube Cream Puffs in the freezer for up to 1 month. Make sure they’re stored in a single layer to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in a preheated oven to recrisp them—this will help them regain their delightful texture!
Ube Cream Puffs: Irresistibly Light Treats for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of whole milk, ½ cup of water, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts completely.
- Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and add in 1 cup of all-purpose flour all at once. Stir vigorously until a smooth dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 1-2 minutes.
- Allow the dough to cool for about 5 minutes, then add 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing vigorously after each addition until the dough becomes glossy and smooth.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Portion the dough into 2-inch rounds on the tray, leaving space for expansion.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes.
- Once golden, remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup of ube halaya, ½ cup of whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, ¼ cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 2 egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Once the puffs are cool, cut a small hole in each and fill with the chilled ube custard using a piping bag.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve cold or at room temperature.
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