As the sun rises, the kitchen fills with the warm aroma of freshly baked bread, bringing back memories of cozy mornings. Let me introduce you to my favorite breakfast delight: Ube Cheese Pandesal. These soft purple yam rolls, filled with melty cheese, are not only a feast for the eyes but also incredibly comforting. The best part? They’re quick to whip up, making them a perfect treat for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Each fluffy bite bursts with nostalgia, inviting you to savor every moment. Are you ready to add a colorful twist to your breakfast table? Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your kitchen the heart of your home!
Why Is Ube Cheese Pandesal Irresistible?
Comforting Flavor: Each roll bursts with the delightful taste of purple yam and a creamy cheese center that will leave you craving more.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy mornings! This recipe is not only simple to follow but also quick to prepare, giving you fresh bread in no time.
Nostalgic Aroma: The warm scent wafting from the oven will transport you back to cozy family breakfasts, making every bite a trip down memory lane.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy these Ube Cheese Pandesal as a breakfast staple or a delicious snack. They’re great with coffee or tea and can be paired with your favorite spreads, too!
Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Whether you’re hosting brunch or simply treating yourself, these rolls will impress everyone at the table, leaving them asking for the recipe!
Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch and share with friends and family. These rolls are not only beautiful but also create cherished moments around the dining table. Consider trying variations, like those from my other recipes, such as the delightful Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs or the mouth-watering Honey Cream Cheese Dip.
Ube Cheese Pandesal Ingredients
• Freshly baked deliciousness awaits!
For the Dough
- Warm Water – Activates yeast; maintain a temperature of 105-110°F for best results.
- Active Dry Yeast – Leavens the dough; instant yeast can be a quick substitute.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances flavor; honey can create a unique twist if you desire.
- Butter – Provides richness; opt for unsalted for more control over salt levels.
- Eggs – Adds texture and richness; remember to lightly beat before use.
- Warm Milk – Ensures tenderness; use almond milk for a non-dairy alternative.
- Mashed Cooked Ube – Infuses color and taste; ube powder mixed with hot water works too.
- Liquid Ube Flavoring – Enhances ube flavor; optional if using real ube.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates flavor.
- Flour – Builds the structure; all-purpose flour is recommended for optimal texture.
- Vegetable Oil – Prevents sticking while kneading; a must-have for a smooth process.
For the Filling
- Velveeta Cheese (or quick melt cheese) – Ensures a gooey, melty center; swapping in cheddar or mozzarella can diversify the flavor profile.
For the Coating
- Bread Crumbs – Creates a crispy outer layer; while optional, they enhance the roll’s finish.
Remember, these Ube Cheese Pandesal ingredients combine to create a flavorful, memorable treat perfect for your breakfast or snacking needs!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (at 105-110°F), 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes foamy and bubbly, which ensures your yeast is activated and ready to lift your Ube Pandesal dough.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Once the yeast is active, add ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 lightly beaten eggs, the remaining ¼ cup of sugar, ½ cup of warm milk, 1 cup of mashed cooked ube, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined, creating a vibrant, cohesive mixture that will provide moisture and flavor to your rolls.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add in 3 cups of all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, using a wooden spoon or spatula to blend until a shaggy dough forms. As you mix, pay attention to the texture; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Add more flour little by little if necessary, ensuring it’s not too dry as you proceed towards kneading.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the shaggy dough onto a lightly greased surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you and fold it back over itself. Ensure that it passes the windowpane test; stretching it should yield a thin, translucent membrane without breaking.
Step 5: First Rise
Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. Look for the dough to be puffy and significantly larger; this means it’s ready for the next step.
Step 6: Portion the Dough
After the first rise, punch down the dough to release excess air and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a log and cut it into 14 equal portions. Each piece should be about the size of a golf ball, ensuring that your Ube Pandesal rolls will bake evenly.
Step 7: Fill with Cheese
Take each dough piece and flatten it slightly with your fingers. Place a square of Velveeta cheese or your preferred melting cheese in the center. Carefully fold the edges around the filling, ensuring that the cheese is sealed within, then roll the filled dough ball gently in your hands to smooth it out.
Step 8: Second Rise
Arrange the filled dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise again until puffy, which will take about 30 to 60 minutes. Watch closely; they should nearly double in size and look soft and pillowy.
Step 9: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F while the dough is rising for the last time. Once ready, bake the Ube Pandesal for about 20 to 23 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted comes out clean; let them cool slightly before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Ube Cheese Pandesal rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time for busy mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe until the first rise is complete, then shape and refrigerate the dough covered with plastic wrap. To maintain quality, make sure to let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling in cheese and breadcrumbs. Additionally, you can fill and shape the rolls up to 3 days ahead, storing them in the fridge until ready to let them rise again and bake. When you’re ready, simply follow the baking instructions, and enjoy fresh, soft Ube Cheese Pandesal that tastes just as delightful as if they were made that day!
Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Ube Cheese Pandesal; there’s so much you can do!
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Flavored Fillings: Try adding coconut jam or flavored cream cheese instead of regular cheese for a tropical twist. The sweet contrast pairs beautifully with the ube!
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Cheese Variety: Substitute Velveeta with sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a deeper flavor experience. Mixing cheeses can also create an exciting melt!
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these rolls gluten-free. Just be sure to add a binder like xanthan gum for the best texture.
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Sweet Delight: Incorporate a bit of sugar into the dough for sweet versions. These can be perfect for dessert or served with a side of your favourite jam.
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Spicy Kick: For the adventurous, mix diced jalapeños or add a sprinkle of chili flakes into the dough. The heat complements the sweetness of ube remarkably!
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Savoury Additions: Consider folding in bits of ham or cooked bacon in with the cheese for an indulgent brunch treat that everyone will love.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute Velveeta with a cashew or almond cheese for a dairy-free experience. You’ll still get that gooey center!
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Nutty Crunch: Roll the filled dough in chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds before baking for a delightful crunch on the outside.
Each variation invites you to explore new tastes and create your perfect Ube Cheese Pandesal, making every baking adventure unique and delicious! Don’t forget to check out other fun recipes like Corn Ribs Cheese and the creamy goodness of Cottage Cheese Spinach.
What to Serve with Ube Cheese Pandesal
Warm, fluffy rolls of Ube Cheese Pandesal create the perfect backdrop for a delightful meal that will make your taste buds dance.
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Fruity Jam: Spread with guava or mango jam for a sweet contrast to the cheesy delight, enhancing every bite.
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Brewed Coffee: Pair with a rich cup of coffee to complement the sweetness and warm, comforting flavors of the rolls—perfect for breakfast.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of diced mango, pineapple, and bananas adds a bright and healthy side that balances the richness of the Ube Cheese Pandesal.
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Herbed Butter: Savory herbed butter spread brings a delightful contrast and richness that enhances the fluffy rolls.
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Flavored Tea: A cup of chai or jasmine tea provides a fragrant pairing, allowing the sweet notes of ube to shine through.
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Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses alongside your Ube Cheese Pandesal for a fun, shareable addition that perfectly highlights the melty cheese inside.
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Coconut Milk Drink: Chilled coconut milk or a coconut smoothie adds a refreshing and tropical twist that complements the ube flavor.
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Butter Pecan Ice Cream: For a sweet ending, this creamy dessert offers a delightful juxtaposition to the warm, soft rolls, making every bite a treat.
How to Store and Freeze Ube Cheese Pandesal
Room Temperature: Keep your Ube Cheese Pandesal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To restore their freshness, reheat the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes. This ensures the bread becomes warm and the cheese melts beautifully again.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply remove the desired number of rolls from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours before reheating.
Expert Tips for Ube Cheese Pandesal
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Temperature Check: Ensure your warm water is around 105-110°F to activate the yeast properly. Too hot can kill the yeast, preventing your dough from rising.
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Dough Consistency: If your dough feels sticky while kneading, don’t hesitate to add a touch of flour. Conversely, if it’s too dry, a small drizzle of vegetable oil can work wonders for balance.
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Windowpane Test: After kneading, perform the windowpane test. Stretch a small piece of dough; it should be elastic and form a thin, translucent layer without breaking, indicating perfect gluten development.
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Even Cheese Distribution: Cut the cheese into thinner squares for even melting inside your rolls. This ensures you’ll get that delightful melty cheese experience in every bite of your Ube Cheese Pandesal.
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Storage Solutions: Store leftover Ube Cheese Pandesal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer freshness is essential for preserving their soft texture.
Ube Cheese Pandesal Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ube?
When selecting ube, look for tubers that are firm, smooth, and heavy for their size. They should have a rich purple hue and no dark spots or wrinkles. The ideal ube will exhibit an earthy aroma, and avoid any with soft or squishy areas, indicating overripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftover Ube Cheese Pandesal?
Store your Ube Cheese Pandesal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This method keeps them soft and fresh. If you want to keep them longer, follow these freezing instructions!
How should I freeze Ube Cheese Pandesal?
Absolutely! To freeze your Ube Cheese Pandesal, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain quality for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours before reheating in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to restore that fresh-baked softness.
What if my dough is too sticky or too dry?
If your dough is too sticky, add flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. If it’s too dry, a drizzle of vegetable oil can help restore moisture. Knead the dough gently to achieve that perfect elasticity!
Are these Ube Cheese Pandesal safe for those with cheese allergies?
If someone has allergies to cheese, consider using non-dairy cheese alternatives or simply omit the filling altogether! The Ube Pandesal dough is still delightfully soft and flavorful, making it enjoyable on its own.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the Ube Cheese Pandesal?
Certainly! You can experiment with the amount of sugar in this recipe. If you’re looking for a less sweet option, reduce the granulated sugar by up to a quarter. You can also replace sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile!
Irresistible Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add softened butter, lightly beaten eggs, remaining sugar, warm milk, mashed cooked ube, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add in all-purpose flour until a shaggy dough forms. Adjust with more flour if necessary.
- Knead the dough on a greased surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Pass the windowpane test.
- Shape the dough into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Punch down the dough, shape into a log, and cut into 14 equal portions.
- Flatten each dough piece, place a square of cheese in the center, fold edges around it, and form a smooth ball.
- Arrange on a lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rise again until puffy, about 30 to 60 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 20 to 23 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
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