As the aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. Today, we’re diving into a delightful twist on a beloved classic—Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese. These fluffy Filipino rolls, infused with rich purple yam, are not just visually stunning; they’re a match made in heaven when paired with creamy, gooey cheese. Whether you choose them for breakfast or as a charming snack, they promise to captivate your taste buds and make your heart sing. What’s best is that they’re simple enough for anyone to whip up at home, taking just a little time to create this delightful fusion. Ready to indulge in this delectable treat? Let’s get baking!
Why is Ube Cheese Pandesal So Irresistible?
Fluffy Texture: Each bite offers a cloud-like softness that’s hard to resist, inviting you to savor more.
Unique Flavor: The rich, sweet taste of ube paired with savory cheese creates a delightful combination that surprises your palate.
Easy to Prepare: This recipe is approachable for home bakers of all skill levels—perfect for adding a twist to your usual breakfast or snack routine.
Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Whether for family breakfasts or gatherings with friends, these rolls are sure to impress anyone who tries them.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment! Swap out ube for other flavors like pumpkin or sweet potato, or try different cheeses as suggested in my Fried Strawberry Cheesecake recipe. You’ll find so many ways to enjoy these tasty treats!
Ube Cheese Pandesal Ingredients
• Perfect for soft and fluffy rolls!
For the Dough
- Warm Water – Activates yeast; use water at 105-110°F to prevent killing the yeast.
- Active Dry Yeast – Essential for leavening; one packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) needed.
- White Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps activate the yeast; adjust based on sweetness preference.
- Butter (Softened) – Adds fat for flavor and tenderness.
- Eggs (Lightly Beaten) – Contributes richness and structure to the dough.
- Warm Milk – Softens the dough and enhances flavor; use warm (not hot) to maintain yeast activity.
- Mashed Cooked Ube – Provides the signature purple color and flavor; can substitute with ube powder (reconstitute with water).
- Liquid Ube Flavoring – Intensifies the ube flavor; essential for achieving the desired taste.
- Salt – Balances flavor and strengthens the dough.
- All-Purpose Flour – Builds structure; approximately 3 ½ cups, adjusted for dough consistency.
- Vegetable Oil – Used for kneading to prevent sticking.
For the Filling
- Velveeta Cheese (or any quick-melt cheese) – Provides a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth filling; cut into squares for effective stuffing.
For the Crunchy Coating
- Bread Crumbs – Gives a crunchy exterior after baking, enhancing texture.
With this lovely medley of ingredients, your Ube Cheese Pandesal will surely be a hit, perfect for any occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Cheese Pandesal with Melty Cheese
Step 1: Proof the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (105-110°F) with 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic in your Ube Cheese Pandesal dough.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, blend in the foamy yeast mixture with ¼ cup softened butter, 2 lightly beaten eggs, 1 cup warm milk, 1 cup mashed cooked ube, and 1 teaspoon of liquid ube flavoring, along with 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are well combined, creating a beautiful, colorful mixture that sets the base for the fluffy rolls.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Gradually add approximately 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring until the dough starts to form and becomes shaggy. If it feels sticky, you can add a little more flour as needed to reach the desired consistency. This is the foundation for your Ube Cheese Pandesal rolls, ensuring they’re light and airy.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly oiled surface, allowing enough space to knead. Use your hands to knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic but still slightly tacky. This step is crucial, as proper kneading helps develop the gluten, contributing to the fluffy texture of the final bakes.
Step 5: Let it Rise
Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size. This first rise enhances flavor and texture, making your Ube Cheese Pandesal extra fluffy and delightful.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
After the dough has risen, gently deflate it before transferring it to your work surface. Shape the dough into a log and divide it into 14 equal portions. Take each portion, flatten it slightly, and place a square of Velveeta cheese in the center. Carefully seal and roll the dough into a smooth ball, ensuring the cheese is tucked inside.
Step 7: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Once formed, roll each cheese-stuffed ball in breadcrumbs to give them that crispy exterior. This step adds a nice crunch to your Ube Cheese Pandesal, creating texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread and melted cheese inside.
Step 8: Second Rise
Arrange the coated rolls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart for room to expand. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and allow them to rise a second time for about 30 to 60 minutes, or until they puff up nicely, signaling they’re ready for baking.
Step 9: Preheat and Bake
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen to your satisfaction, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-23 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the house fills with the irresistible aroma of baked Ube Cheese Pandesal.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove your Ube Cheese Pandesal from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. These fluffy, cheesy rolls will be deliciously hot, so give them a moment before indulging, allowing all that melty cheese to settle perfectly inside!
Expert Tips for Ube Cheese Pandesal
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Yeast Accuracy: Use a thermometer to ensure your warm water is at the correct temperature (105-110°F). Too hot can kill the yeast, leading to dense rolls.
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Handle with Care: Lightly oil your hands and the kneading surface to smoothly work with the sticky dough, ensuring no fluffiness is lost during manipulation.
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Perfect Texture Test: Perform the windowpane test to check if your dough is ready. Stretch a small piece; it should be thin enough to see through without breaking, indicating gluten development.
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Cheese Slicing: Cut your Velveeta cheese into squares instead of cubes for better melting distribution within the Ube Cheese Pandesal, ensuring every bite is deliciously cheesy.
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Cool Down: Allow your rolls to cool slightly before serving. The melty cheese filling will be very hot and can burst if bitten into immediately.
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Freezing for Later: If making ahead, freeze unbaked assembled rolls. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen to have freshly baked Ube Cheese Pandesal at your convenience!
Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese Variations
If you’re excited to make these fluffy rolls your own, let your creativity shine with these delightful twists!
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Sweet Potato Swap: Replace ube with mashed sweet potato for a different natural sweetness and vibrant color.
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Different Cheese: Try using mozzarella or even a smoky cheddar for a rich twist. The flavor enhancement can create a delightful surprise with every bite!
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Pumpkin Pandesal: Incorporate pumpkin puree instead of ube; this will lend a warm, earthy flavor, perfect for fall. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with cheese.
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Spiced Addition: Mix in cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for added warmth and depth. This fragrant twist takes the experience to a cozy level, making for a comforting snack.
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Topping Variations: Before baking, roll your dough in everything from flaxseed to poppy seeds for an additional layer of texture and flavor. This adds not just taste but a beautiful finish to your rolls.
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Sweet Filling: Add a dollop of sweetened condensed milk or cream cheese alongside the cheese for a rich, sweet-savory combination that will leave everyone craving more.
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Savory Herb Blend: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for a refreshing savory flavor. This can elevate your rolls into something unique and aromatic!
Feel free to experiment and find your perfect match! And if you’re looking for more delightful treats, don’t miss out on my Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake or the exquisite Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak. The possibilities are endless!
How to Store and Freeze Ube Cheese Pandesal
Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their fluffy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap each Ube Cheese Pandesal in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy again, simply bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through and the cheese is melty.
Thawing: If thawing, leave the rolls in the fridge overnight before reheating, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Ube Cheese Pandesal
These delightful, fluffy rolls are perfect companions that will elevate your meal experience, making every bite a celebration of flavors.
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Creamy Garlic Dip: This velvety dip adds a savory touch that beautifully complements the sweetness of ube, bringing a perfect balance to your snack.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: The light, refreshing taste of seasonal fruits pairs nicely with the rich, cheesy rolls, enhancing the overall experience with natural sweetness.
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Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of your favorite beverage makes for a comforting pairing, enriching the enjoyment of the rolls and offering a cozy vibe.
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Savory Cheese Platter: Offering an assortment of cheeses alongside your Ube Cheese Pandesal creates a delightful contrast of flavors, perfect for guests during gatherings.
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Spicy Mango Chutney: The zesty notes from the chutney cut through the richness of the cheese, adding a vibrant twist that will excite your taste buds.
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Pineapple Juice: The bright, tropical notes of pineapple juice create a lovely contrast with the soft bread, refreshing your palate after each bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a sweet twist, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, letting the warm bread melt the ice cream and combine flavors in a delightful dessert experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Ube Cheese Pandesal are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh rolls on any busy day! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps until the first rise, then cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This slow rise enhances flavor without losing quality. When you’re ready to bake, shape and fill the rolls as instructed, let them rise for about 30-60 minutes, and bake as directed. Each bite of these fluffy rolls, filled with melty cheese, will remind you that good homemade food doesn’t have to take all day!
Ube Cheese Pandesal Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ube for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh ube, look for firm tubers without any dark spots or soft areas. The skin should be smooth, and they should feel heavy for their size. A good tuber will yield a sweet, earthy flavor that perfectly complements the fluffy rolls.
How should I store leftover Ube Cheese Pandesal?
You’ll want to store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fluffy. Optional: for longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to individually wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; they can last for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Ube Cheese Pandesal? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your unbaked cheese-stuffed rolls, simply assemble the Ube Cheese Pandesal, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This keeps their shape intact! When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just bake directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
What if my dough isn’t rising properly?
Very important! If your dough isn’t rising, double-check the water temperature used for proofing the yeast; it should be around 105-110°F. Too hot can kill the yeast! If you did everything right and it still doesn’t rise, your yeast might be expired. Consider trying a different batch and let it sit longer—perhaps in a warm place—to see if it bulks up.
Are Ube Cheese Pandesal suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Unfortunately, this recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend certified for baking. Just note that the texture might differ slightly! Always check for cheese alternatives if lactose is a concern, too.
What other fillings or flavors can I try with Ube Cheese Pandesal?
The more the merrier! You can experiment by swapping out the ube for sweet potatoes or pumpkin for different flavors. Choosing other types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar can give a unique taste. You might even want to roll the assembled rolls in sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking for an exciting twist on texture!
Fluffy Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water with active dry yeast and sugar. Let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Ingredients: Blend the foamy yeast mixture with softened butter, beaten eggs, warm milk, mashed cooked ube, liquid ube flavoring, and salt until well combined.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add all-purpose flour while stirring until the dough becomes shaggy.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer to an oiled surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let it Rise: Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Gently deflate, divide into 14 portions, flatten each, place a cheese square in the center, seal, and roll into balls.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior.
- Second Rise: Place on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30-60 minutes until puffed.
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-23 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
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