Ube Pandesal with cheese is a delightful Filipino treat that combines the classic soft bread rolls with the unique flavor of ube, a purple yam. The addition of cheese makes these bread rolls extra special. Follow the steps outlined below to create your own fluffy, cheesy ube pandesal.
Ingredients:
3-4 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.)
1 tablespoon active dry yeast (Can substitute with instant yeast.)
1 cup warm milk (110°F; can use dairy-free milk for lactose-free option.)
1/4 cup white sugar (Can replace half with honey or agave syrup.)
1 teaspoon salt (Essential for flavor balance.)
1 large egg (Use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil (Substitute with melted coconut oil or unsalted butter.)
1/2 cup ube halaya (Use homemade or store-bought.)
Few drops ube extract (Omit for less intense flavor.)
2 cups cubed cheddar cheese (Substitute with any melty cheese like mozzarella.)
1 cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko can be used for a flakier texture.)
Directions: Step-by-Step Instructions
Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, sift together 3 cups of flour and salt. This step ensures your bread will have the right texture.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
Once your yeast mixture is ready, add it to the dry ingredients along with the egg, vegetable oil, and ube halaya. Mix until well combined.
Knead the Dough:
Gradually add another cup of flour if the dough is too sticky. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10-15 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
Place your dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Pandesal:
Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Flatten each ball slightly and place cubed cheese in the center. Pinch the dough to seal it.
Coat in Breadcrumbs:
Roll each sealed dough ball in breadcrumbs to coat. This will give your pandesal a lovely crust.
Second Rise:
Place the coated pandesal on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pandesal for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let your ube pandesal cool on a wire rack. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey cheese inside!
Why You’ll Love This Ube Pandesal with Cheese
Ube pandesal stands out as a special treat that is not only tasty but also visually appealing with its beautiful purple hue. This fluffy bread pulls apart easily and reveals warm, melted cheese inside, making every bite a little indulgent.
Here’s why you’ll love making this recipe:
Unique Flavor: The sweet nutty flavor of ube combines perfectly with savory cheese.
Fluffy Texture: The dough rises beautifully for a soft, airy texture that will have you reaching for another roll.
Versatility: You can enjoy these rolls for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a side dish during mealtime.
Nutriments benefits
Ube, the star of this recipe, is packed with antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and dietary fiber. Adding cheese provides protein and calcium, making your ube pandesal not just delicious but also nutritious. The combination of these ingredients makes for a balanced treat that can keep you energized throughout the day.
What to Serve With Ube Pandesal with Cheese
Ube pandesal with cheese can be enjoyed in several ways:
Coffee or Tea: A warm drink is a perfect match, enhancing the flavors of the bread.
Jam or Spreads: Try serving with jam for an extra sweet kick or butter for richness.
Breakfast Plate: Pair them with eggs, bacon, or fruit for a satisfying breakfast.
Snacks: Enjoy them on their own as a delightful snack any time of the day.
How to Store Ube Pandesal with Cheese
To store your ube pandesal properly:
Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh.
Refrigeration: If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to reheat them for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the pandesal for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat directly in the oven.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t skip the dough rest: Allowing your dough to rise properly will result in fluffy bread.
Watch the temperature: Make sure your milk is warm but not hot; too much heat can kill the yeast.
Don’t over-knead: Knead just enough to develop gluten without overdoing it, or your bread may turn out tough.
Use quality ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh ube halaya and good-quality cheese.
Variation (if any)
Feel free to experiment with this recipe:
Sweet Additions: Add in chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Different Fillings: Swap out cheddar cheese for mozzarella or even cream cheese for a different taste.
Vegan Version: Use vegan cheese and a flax egg to cater to dietary preferences.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Allow it to rise, then shape into rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Allow it to come back to room temperature before baking.
2. What is ube halaya?
Ube halaya is a sweet, purple yam jam made from boiled, mashed ube, sugar, and coconut milk. It has a rich flavor and is often used in Filipino desserts.
3. Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use a bread machine on the dough setting. Just add your ingredients in the order recommended by the machine manual.
In conclusion, Ube Pandesal with cheese is a delightful twist on a classic Filipino bread that offers a perfect combination of sweetness and savory flavors. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, ensuring everyone will love them! Enjoy baking and tasting these fluffy, cheesy delights!