Name: Savory-Sweet Ube Cinnamon Rolls to Elevate Your Dessert Game
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 113 min
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk (Use whole or alternative milk); 1 large egg (Room temperature); 1 tablespoon ube extract (Natural ube recommended); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (Softened); 3 cups all-purpose flour (Measure accurately); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (Can reduce if desired); 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast (Check freshness); 1/2 cup ube halaya jam (Found at Asian markets); 1/4 cup brown sugar (Adjust for sweetness); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (Adjust to taste); 1/2 cup heavy cream (For soaking before baking); 4 ounces cream cheese (Full-fat preferred); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (Softened); 1 cup confectioners sugar (Adjust for desired sweetness); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Pure extract recommended)

As I sifted through my kitchen pantry, a reality struck me—who says cinnamon rolls can’t be a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds? Enter my Soft and Fluffy Ube Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful twist on the traditional favorite that brings a vibrant pop of purple to your breakfast table. These rolls aren’t just visually stunning; they are also a soft, melt-in-your-mouth experience, providing the perfect comfort food without overwhelming sweetness. You’ll find them to be a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or a cozy treat for your family. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead of time, meaning you can enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your home with minimal stress. Curious about how to create this deliciously unique treat? Let’s roll!

Why Choose Ube Cinnamon Rolls?

Uniquely Delicious: The vibrant purple hue of these Ube Cinnamon Rolls not only makes them visually appealing but also adds a delightful flavor twist that surprises your palate.
Fluffy Indulgence: Soft and fluffy, these rolls melt in your mouth, offering a comforting texture that elevates any breakfast or dessert table.
Less Sweet, Just Right: Unlike commercial options, these rolls strike a perfect balance with their less sweet profile, making them enjoyable for everyone.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for busy mornings, you can prepare these delicious treats in advance, ensuring a stress-free way to impress family or guests.
Culinary Adventure: Dive into Filipino culture with this beloved dessert; experiencing ube flavor brings a fun and exotic touch to your cooking repertoire.
Enjoy them warm alongside a cup of coffee or try pairing them with a refreshing glass of pandan milk for an unforgettable treat!

Ube Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough
• Milk – Activates yeast and hydrates dough; use warm whole milk or alternative milks for variation.
• Egg – Provides richness and structure; opt for a large room-temperature egg for the best texture.
• Ube Extract – Adds vibrant flavor and purple color; consider using natural ube for a more authentic taste.
• Unsalted Butter – Enhances flavor and moisture; be sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure of the rolls; measure carefully or use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness; feel free to reduce it to adjust sweetness levels if desired.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity; a crucial ingredient for a balanced taste.
• Instant Dry Yeast – Helps the dough rise effectively; always check for freshness to ensure success.

For the Filling
• Ube Halaya Jam – Provides a unique and sweet filling flavor; found at Asian markets, with limited substitutes.
• Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor; adjust the quantity based on your personal sweetness preference.
• Ground Cinnamon – Classic spice that complements the filling; you can adjust the amount to suit your tastes.

For Baking
• Heavy Cream – Ensures the rolls remain moist and fluffy; essential for soaking the rolls before baking.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Forms the base of the frosting, offering a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness; full-fat is best.
• Confection Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust the amount to achieve your desired sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract – Familiar flavor that enhances the frosting; opt for pure extract for the best results.

Get ready to create these stunning and delicious Ube Cinnamon Rolls that will surely impress your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Warm 1 cup of milk in a small pot until it’s just steaming, then add 2 teaspoons of instant dry yeast and stir gently. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk with 1 egg, 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 3 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Proof Dough
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area for about 30 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size. Check for the dough to be puffy and slightly domed, indicating it’s ready for the next step.

Step 3: Make Filling
In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of softened butter, 1/2 cup of ube halaya jam, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Mix these ingredients together until they form a smooth, spreadable paste. Set aside this delightful filling as you prepare to shape the Ube Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 4: Roll Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air, and transfer it to a floured surface. Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough into a rectangle, about ½ inch thick. Evenly spread the ube filling mixture across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent overflow when rolling.

Step 5: Cut Rolls
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log; pinch the edges to seal the roll. With a sharp knife or dental floss, score the log into 9 equal pieces, each about 1 ½ inches thick. Place the cut rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan to rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they look puffy.

Step 6: Add Cream
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, pour 1/2 cup of heavy cream evenly over the top of the rolls, ensuring they are well-soaked. This step is crucial for achieving that wonderfully moist and fluffy texture in your Ube Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 7: Bake Rolls
Carefully place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the rolls for 21-23 minutes, or until they are golden brown and slightly puffed. Keep an eye on them; you want the tops to be a warm, inviting shade of golden without burning, as this indicates perfect doneness.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting
While the rolls are baking, make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of confection sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is creamy and well-blended.

Step 9: Frost & Serve
Once the Ube Cinnamon Rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. The heat will make the frosting melt slightly, creating a luscious, creamy layer that adds to the rolls’ charm. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavor of these beautiful treats!

What to Serve with Soft and Fluffy Ube Cinnamon Rolls?

Indulging in these delightful rolls creates the perfect opportunity to explore flavors that complement their unique taste and texture.

Pandan Milk: A fragrant, sweet beverage that enhances the ube flavor, providing a refreshing contrast to the rolls.
Rich Coffee: A bold cup of espresso or a creamy latte balances the sweetness for a delightful breakfast pairing.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple adds a juicy, bright element to the meal, lightening the palate.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy cookies tie in beautifully with the ube and add an extra layer of sweet coconut flavor.
Ube Halaya Dip: Make a luscious dip with leftover ube halaya, serving it alongside for a flavorful, thematic touch.
Chocolate or Vanilla Iced Latte: A sweet, frosty drink contrasts with the warmth of the rolls, making every bite more enjoyable.
Lemon Curd: The tangy citrus flavor cuts through the richness of the rolls and offers a refreshing zing to every bite.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream adds a fluffy element simply perfect for these cozy cinnamon rolls!
Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich, chocolatey goodness envelops your senses, turning your brunch into an indulgent experience.
Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: For the ultimate cinnamon experience, serve these alongside for a delightful textural contrast that matches the spices.

Make Ahead Options

These Ube Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance, making your mornings easier and stress-free. Simply follow the instructions until you cut the rolls, then place them in a greased pan, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This helps maintain their softness and freshness. When you’re ready to bake, let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before pouring the heavy cream over the top and baking as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, fluffy Ube Cinnamon Rolls with minimal effort, ready to impress your family or guests!

Ube Cinnamon Rolls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these creative twists and adjustments to customize your ube cinnamon rolls in delightful ways!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond or coconut milk and replace butter with vegan margarine for a plant-based option.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for a delightful crunch that complements the roll’s softness. These nuts add texture and a rich, earthy flavor that makes each bite even more interesting.
Chocolate Lovers: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent twist; their gooeyness melds perfectly with the ube flavor. Imagine the melty chocolate mingling with the sweet, creamy roll!
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version. Make sure to check that the ube halaya jam is also gluten-free to keep the recipe compliant!
Maple Glaze: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze using powdered sugar and pure maple syrup for a unique, syrupy sweetness. The warm notes of maple create a delightful contrast with the ube.
Additional Spices: Experiment with adding nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling for an exotic twist that enhances the warm flavors. These spices create an aromatic experience that elevates your rolls further.
Increased Ube Flavor: If you’re an ube enthusiast, try using extra ube extract or fold in additional ube purée for a stronger flavor punch. The vibrant purple color will be sure to impress when you slice into them!

For a complementary treat, consider serving your Ube Cinnamon Rolls next to some Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles for a delightful pairing that enhances the flavors. Enjoy the creative process and let your taste buds guide you!

Expert Tips for Ube Cinnamon Rolls

Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale when measuring all-purpose flour to guarantee the right texture in your ube cinnamon rolls; too much flour can lead to dense rolls.
Ideal Proofing Temperature: Find a warm spot to let your dough rise, such as an oven preheated to the lowest setting and then turned off; this encourages proper rising and fluffiness.
Perfect Cutting Technique: Use unflavored dental floss to cut the rolls cleanly. This ensures beautiful, intact shapes and prevents squished edges.
Warm Milk for Yeast Activation: Always warm your milk gently, around 110°F (43°C), before adding yeast; overheating can kill the yeast and hinder your dough’s rise.
Infuse Moisture Pre-Baking: Pouring heavy cream over the rolls right before baking contributes to their soft and gooey texture, elevating your homemade ube cinnamon rolls to perfection.

How to Store and Freeze Ube Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Store un-frosted rolls in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate Ube Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Frost only when ready to serve for best flavor.
Freezer: Freeze un-frosted rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, then placing in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, reheat rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until heated through.

Ube Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for Ube Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, particularly for the ube flavor, it’s essential to use high-quality ube extract or ube halaya jam. Look for a vibrant purple color without any added preservatives. If you’re using fresh ube, choose firm, unblemished tubers without any dark spots. The fresher they are, the better your rolls will taste!

How should I store my Ube Cinnamon Rolls after baking?
Very! To keep your Ube Cinnamon Rolls fresh, place un-frosted rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, transfer them to the fridge where they can last for up to 3 days. Apply the frosting only just before serving to keep the texture perfect!

Can I freeze Ube Cinnamon Rolls for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your Ube Cinnamon Rolls, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them inside a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm.

What should I do if my dough isn’t rising properly?
Don’t worry! If your dough isn’t rising as expected, first check the yeast’s freshness – expired yeast will halt the rising process. Ensure your liquids are warm (about 110°F or 43°C) but not hot. If the environment is too cool, consider placing your dough in an oven preheated to the lowest setting and then turned off, which creates a perfect warm spot for proofing.

Are these Ube Cinnamon Rolls safe for people with allergies?
Yes! However, this recipe contains allergens like gluten, dairy, and eggs. To make it safer for those with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour blends and dairy alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter. Always check the specific brands and their ingredient lists to ensure they meet dietary needs.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the rolls?
Certainly! If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of granulated and brown sugar in the dough and filling. Taste as you go along, as the balance should still complement the ube flavor without overpowering it. Enjoy the flexibility of creating your perfect Ube Cinnamon Rolls!