Name: Chewy Ube Crinkle Cookies: A Sweet Filipino Treat at Home
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Can swap for coconut sugar for a caramel-like flavor.); 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil (Can be replaced with melted coconut oil.); 2 large Eggs (Use at room temperature for best results.); 1/2 cup Ube Halaya (Purple Yam Jam) (Can substitute with ube powder mixed with water and butter.); 1 teaspoon Ube Extract (Optional if using ube halaya.); 1 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Consider using a gluten-free flour blend for best results.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Ensure it's fresh for optimal rising.); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Just a pinch enhances overall flavor.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sift for an even finer layer.)

As I unwrapped the vibrant purple treat, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, transporting me to the lively streets of Manila where bakeries overflow with delicious ube confections. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Ube Crinkle Cookies—an irresistible blend of soft, chewy textures and slightly crisp edges, enveloped in a sugary crackle. Not only are these cookies visually stunning, making them the centerpiece of any dessert table, but they’re also quick and simple to whip up, perfect for those of us who appreciate homemade delights without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients, you can indulge in the nutty goodness of ube that carries a piece of Filipino culture in every bite. Ready to create a dessert that stands out and delights? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Ube Crinkle Cookies So Special?

Colorful and visually stunning, Ube Crinkle Cookies are a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Easy to make, they don’t require advanced baking skills, making them perfect for any home cook. Chewy texture perfectly complements the sugary crackle, creating a delightful experience with every bite. Plus, their unique ingredient, ube, offers a nutty flavor that transports you straight to the Philippines! If you’re looking for a vibrant addition to your cookie repertoire, these cookies will impress your family and friends, just like my Brown Butter Cookies and Lemon Raspberry Cookies.

Ube Crinkle Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these delightful treats!

For the Cookie Dough
• Granulated Sugar – This provides sweetness and structure; swap for coconut sugar for a caramel-like flavor.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and richness; can be replaced with melted coconut oil for a subtle coconut essence.
• Large Eggs – Serves as the binding agent for your dough; using eggs at room temperature yields the best results.
• Ube Halaya (Purple Yam Jam) – The star ingredient that brings authenticity and sweetness; can be substituted with ube powder mixed with water and butter, though the texture may differ.
• Ube Extract – Enhances the ube flavor; optional if using ube halaya for a stronger taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure in cookies; if you’re gluten-free, consider using a gluten-free flour blend for best results.
• Baking Powder – A vital leavening agent; make sure it’s fresh for optimal rising.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness; just a pinch enhances the overall flavor.
• Powdered Sugar – This sugary coating adds sweetness and appealing visual texture; sifting it makes for an even finer layer.

With these Ube Crinkle Cookies ingredients gathered and ready, you are on your way to creating a colorful and delicious treat that will surely impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of vegetable oil. Use a whisk to blend these together until the mixture appears smooth and glossy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This step creates a base that will provide sweetness and moisture to your Ube Crinkle Cookies, making them irresistibly chewy.

Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs
Next, crack in 2 large eggs at room temperature and blend them into the sugar and oil mixture. Beat together until fully combined; it should take about 1 minute. The eggs act as a binding agent in your dough, ensuring that your cookies hold their shape while baking, so whisk with care for a smooth consistency.

Step 3: Add Ube and Extract
Stir in 1/2 cup of ube halaya and 1 teaspoon of ube extract, mixing until well incorporated. This should take about 30 seconds. Ensure that the vibrant purple hue of the ube is evenly distributed throughout the mixture, infusing your Ube Crinkle Cookies with a delightful nutty flavor.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This blend ensures your cookies rise correctly and have the perfect texture. Make sure there are no lumps, and then gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Prepare the Dough Balls
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, scoop out 1-inch balls of dough and roll them in powdered sugar until fully coated. This sugary coating will create the signature crackle effect on your Ube Crinkle Cookies. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart for even baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once at temperature, bake the Ube Crinkle Cookies for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are firm, and the tops are crackled. They should be slightly soft to the touch but will firm up as they cool, giving you that perfect chewy texture paired with a crisp exterior.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies
After baking, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This cooling time allows them to set properly. Gently transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture while you take in that wonderful ube aroma!

What to Serve with Ube Crinkle Cookies

Indulging in these delightful cookies is only the beginning of a heartwarming dessert experience. Let’s elevate your sweet moment with these perfect pairings.

Coconut Ice Cream: This creamy dessert provides a tropical contrast to the chewy cookies, enhancing the overall ube experience. The coolness of the ice cream balances the warmth of the cookies beautifully.
Filipino Leche Flan: A rich and creamy flan complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Together, they celebrate the essence of Filipino cuisine in a vibrant display.
Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of mango, pineapple, and banana adds a burst of freshness, cutting through the sweetness. This bright medley not only enhances presentation but also lightens the dessert table.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A warm chocolate dip can elevate the flavor profile, creating a delightful contrast with the nutty ube. It invites a playful, interactive dessert experience that’s fun for all ages.
Sweetened Condensed Milk Drizzle: Pour a bit of sweetened condensed milk over the cookies for an extra layer of richness. This addition takes the classic flavors to the next level, infusing warmth with every bite.
Boba Tea: For a drink option, indulge in a chilled boba tea to complement your ube crinkle cookies. The chewy tapioca pearls pair wonderfully with the cookie’s texture and the refreshing tea brings balance to the sweetness.

With these delicious companions, you’re all set to create a memorable dessert experience that warms the heart and soul!

Ube Crinkle Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these enticing twists and substitutions to make the Ube Crinkle Cookies your own!

Almond Extract: Swap ube extract for almond extract for a delightful nutty twist that still keeps the essence intact.
Chocolate Chips: Mix in chocolate chips to add a rich, sweet contrast that perfectly complements the chewy ube base.
Chopped Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an enjoyable crunch that enriches the texture of each cookie.
Coconut Flakes: Fold in unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the vanilla notes of ube.
Color Variations: Try adding a touch of food coloring to the dough to create fun, vibrant designs that brighten any dessert table.
Spicy Zest: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to introduce warm spice notes, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Replace Ube Halaya: If you can’t find ube halaya, use sweet potato puree for a different yet delicious take on the chewy texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs while keeping that delightful chew.

Each of these variations allows you to create a unique and delicious take on the classic Ube Crinkle Cookies. Just like my lovely Caulron Cookies Cauldron, these variations let you showcase your creativity!

Storage Tips for Ube Crinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep Ube Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy texture and sweetness.

Fridge: If you prefer to extend their freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks; however, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag once solid. They can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, you can reheat the cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, bringing back their delightful chewiness and flavor.

Expert Tips for Ube Crinkle Cookies

• Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps them blend smoothly into the dough for the best consistency.

• Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the flour, mix gently to prevent tough cookies. Overmixing can ruin the chewy texture of your Ube Crinkle Cookies.

• Correct Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. Remove them when the edges are set and the tops crackled; slight underbaking ensures a chewy center.

• Rotate the Baking Sheet: For even baking, rotate your baking sheet halfway through the baking time. This simple tip ensures all cookies bake uniformly.

• Powdered Sugar Coating: Roll the dough balls thoroughly in powdered sugar before baking for a beautiful snowy finish. A generous coating contributes to that signature crinkle effect!

Make Ahead Options

These Ube Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients and then refrigerating the dough. This not only enhances the flavors but also helps in maintaining the chewy texture. Simply scoop the dough into balls and roll them in powdered sugar before placing them on a baking sheet. When you’re ready to bake, take them out of the fridge, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. With this simple prep, you will have freshly baked cookies ready to impress your family!

Ube Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ube?
Absolutely! When selecting ube (purple yams), look for smooth, firm, and slightly heavy tubers without any dark spots or soft patches. The skin should be a vibrant purple, indicating freshness. If you’re using ube halaya, check for a smooth texture and a rich purple color, which is a sign of high quality.

What is the best way to store Ube Crinkle Cookies?
Very! Store your Ube Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For added longevity, you can also refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for optimal taste!

Can I freeze Ube Crinkle Cookies?
Of course! To freeze your Ube Crinkle Cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

What should I do if my cookies don’t have the crinkle effect?
Ah, no worries! If your cookies don’t develop a nice crinkle, they might not have had enough powdered sugar coating, or they could have been overmixed. Be sure to roll the dough balls generously in powdered sugar before baking, and handle the dough gently to maintain air pockets for the desired texture.

Are Ube Crinkle Cookies safe for pets?
It’s important to be cautious! Ube itself isn’t toxic to dogs, but it’s best to keep all baked goods away from pets due to sugar and potential allergies. If your furry friend has food sensitivities or health issues, consult your vet before sharing any treats!

Can I use gluten-free flour for Ube Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum, as it helps with binding. The texture may differ a bit, but you’ll still enjoy those delightful flavors!