Name: Deliciously Fluffy Ube Pandesal (Pan de Sal) You’ll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Bread Flour (Essential for a fluffy texture; substitute with all-purpose flour for a denser roll.); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the dough; feel free to swap in brown sugar for a rich flavor.); 2 teaspoons Rapid-Rise Yeast (Ensures a quick rise for your dough; if using active dry yeast, remember to proof it first!); 1 cup Whole Milk (Deepens flavor and hydrates the dough; 2% milk or plant-based alternatives also work well.); 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Adds moisture and richness; substitute with salted butter but reduce added salt.); 1 tablespoon Ube Extract/Flavoring (Provides the signature taste; ube powder can be a substitute, but it may yield less flavor.); 1 large Egg (Binds everything together and enhances richness.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Elevates the overall flavor profile to new heights.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Balances sweetness and promotes effective yeast fermentation.); 1 cup Fine Breadcrumbs (Creates a delightful texture on the outside upon baking.); 1 cup Cheese Cubes (Adds a creamy finish; choose your favorite type like cheddar or brie.); 1 cup Ube Halaya (A sweet jam that infuses extra flavor and richness—don’t skip this!)

The moment I first sank my teeth into a warm Ube Pandesal, it felt like a cozy embrace on a crisp morning. This delightful Filipino breakfast roll, with its irresistibly soft texture and a subtle sweetness, is much more than just a treat—it’s an experience waiting to be shared. Imagine starting your day with these fluffy rolls, light enough for a gentle morning lift yet indulgent with rich melting cheese hidden inside. Not only are they a perfect companion to your coffee or tea, but they also scream out for creativity; you can enjoy them plain or filled with luscious ube halaya. Why not surprise yourself and your loved ones with this unique twist on a classic? Your kitchen deserves a splash of color and flavor! What secret filling will you choose for your Ube Pandesal?

Why Is Ube Pandesal So Irresistible?

Fluffy, these rolls are pillowy soft, making each bite a heavenly experience. Vibrant purple hue adds a stunning visual appeal that brightens any breakfast table. Customizable fillings let you explore creativity—whether you prefer gooey cheese or sweet ube halaya, you can easily tailor these rolls to your taste. Versatile enough to be served for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, they’re sure to impress everyone. Quick to make with simple ingredients, this recipe stands out as both delightful and approachable, making it the perfect choice for home bakers looking to elevate their mornings! For additional tips on pairing flavors, check out our guide on creating delicious breakfast spreads.

Ube Pandesal Ingredients

Indulge in making your very own Ube Pandesal with these key ingredients!

For the Dough

Bread Flour – Essential for a fluffy texture; substitute with all-purpose flour for a denser roll.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; feel free to swap in brown sugar for a rich flavor.
Rapid-Rise Yeast – Ensures a quick rise for your dough; if using active dry yeast, remember to proof it first!
Whole Milk – Deepens flavor and hydrates the dough; 2% milk or plant-based alternatives also work well.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with salted butter but reduce added salt.
Ube Extract/Flavoring – Provides the signature taste; ube powder can be a substitute, but it may yield less flavor.
Large Egg – Binds everything together and enhances richness.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor profile to new heights.
Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and promotes effective yeast fermentation.

For the Coating

Fine Breadcrumbs – Creates a delightful texture on the outside upon baking.

For Optional Fillings

Cheese Cubes – Adds a creamy finish; choose your favorite type like cheddar or brie.
Ube Halaya – A sweet jam that infuses extra flavor and richness—don’t skip this!

With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating delightful Ube Pandesal that can transform breakfast into a colorful celebration!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Pandesal (Pan de Sal)

Step 1: Prepare Wet Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (around 110°F), 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ube extract. Stir in 2 teaspoons of rapid-rise yeast until fully dissolved. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast begins to froth, indicating it’s active and ready to give your Ube Pandesal that fluffy texture.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 4 cups of bread flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Gradually pour in the wet mixture from Step 1, stirring with a spatula until a shaggy dough begins to form. Once combined, switch to using your hands to knead the mixture gently until no dry flour remains and a cohesive dough appears, approximately 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Rest Dough
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, allowing the dough to rest for 20 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it helps to relax the gluten, making the dough easier to knead later. The dough should puff up slightly during this time, giving a hint of its upcoming rise for those delightful Ube Pandesal rolls.

Step 4: Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 7 minutes. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture; you should be able to stretch it without tearing. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Once it reaches the desired consistency, shape it into a ball, ready for the first rise.

Step 5: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, covering it again with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for about 2 hours or until it has doubled in size. Check for a soft, airy texture by gently pressing a finger into the dough — if it springs back slowly, it’s perfectly risen and ready for the next step.

Step 6: Shape Portions
Once risen, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 20 equal pieces, approximately 45g each. Roll these portions into smooth balls by tucking the dough under itself. This shaping technique will create a lovely surface for your Ube Pandesal, allowing them to rise beautifully when they bake.

Step 7: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Prepare a tray lined with parchment paper. Roll each of the shaped dough balls in fine breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated for that signature crispy crust. Place them on the prepared tray, giving space between each roll to allow for their final rise. The breadcrumbs give an enticing crunch that contrasts perfectly with the fluffy interior.

Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the breadcrumb-coated dough balls with a kitchen towel and let them rest for an additional 30 minutes at room temperature. During this time, they will puff up again, gaining volume and that delightful pillowy quality. Keep an eye out for their expansion, a sure sign they’re ready for baking!

Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven reaches temperature, place the baking tray in and bake the Ube Pandesal for 18-20 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown. They should look beautifully risen and have a soft crust. Allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving, ensuring you don’t burn your tongue on any luscious melting filling!

Expert Tips for Fluffy Ube Pandesal

Yeast Accuracy: Always use rapid-rise yeast for a quicker result; if opting for active dry yeast, proof it first to ensure it activates properly.
Dough Coverage: Ensure that each dough portion fully encloses any filling to prevent leakage during baking. Keep a gentle touch while sealing.
Uniform Portions: Use a kitchen scale for precise dough measurements; achieving uniform size ensures consistent baking and fluffiness in every roll.
Flour Measurement: For best results, measure flour by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off, avoiding compacted amounts that can lead to dense bread.
Temperature Matters: Ensure your liquids are warm (not hot) to create the ideal environment for yeast activation; too hot can kill the yeast, affecting your ube pandesal.

How to Store and Freeze Ube Pandesal

Room Temperature: Keep Ube Pandesal in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps retain their fluffy texture while allowing the delightful sweet flavor to shine.

Fridge: For extended freshness, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Just be sure to wrap each roll tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze Ube Pandesal in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently to revive their luscious softness.

Reheating: To bring back the fluffy texture, reheat the rolls in an oven or air fryer for 1-2 minutes. This quick step will have them tasting freshly baked again!

What to Serve with Fluffy Ube Pandesal?

Pair your delightful Ube Pandesal with these complementary options for a well-rounded meal that delights the senses.

Fresh Fruits: Juicy mango slices or ripe bananas provide a sweet contrast to the fluffy, slightly sweet rolls. Their natural sugars enhance the overall breakfast experience.
Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A warm beverage like a rich coffee or creamy hot chocolate elevates the comforting vibe of your breakfast, perfect for dipping.
Savory Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread adds a delightful savory note next to the sweetness of the pandesal, creating a balanced breakfast plate.
Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or savory sausage offer a hearty contrast to the soft bread, combining textures that satisfy morning cravings. The flavors meld wonderfully with the sweet notes of the Ube.
Coconut Jam: Spread fragrant coconut jam over the warm pandesal for an added layer of tropical flavor; it’s like a vacation for your taste buds!
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs contribute a protein boost and subtle flavor that perfectly complement the sweetness of the ube bread rolls.
Hot Tea: A fragrant herbal or chai tea provides a soothing finish, allowing the roll’s sweet flavors to shine while soothing the senses.
Ube Halaya: For an extra special treat, pair your pandesal with a dollop of ube halaya on the side, celebrating the signature ingredient!
Coconut Milk: Drizzling some sweetened coconut milk over your Ube Pandesal makes for a deliciously creamy indulgence that harmonizes beautifully with its texture.

Enjoy this vibrant, playful meal that celebrates the flavors of ube while igniting joy at your breakfast table!

Ube Pandesal Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around with your Ube Pandesal creations and make each batch uniquely yours!

Cheese Swaps: Try using different cheese types like cream cheese or even brie for a richer flavor contrast.
Sweet Fillings: Substitute ube halaya with your favorite sweet jam, such as strawberry or apricot, for a fun twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish friendly for those avoiding gluten. Just add a bit extra moisture!
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace whole milk with almond milk or oat milk and use plant-based butter for a completely dairy-free version.
Added Crush: Incorporate crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts into the dough for delightful bits of crunch in each bite.
Herbal Infusion: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an unexpected savory twist that balances the sweetness of ube.
Spice it Up: Mix in a dash of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for a subtly spiced flavor that enhances the sweet undertones.
Fruit Fusion: Add small pieces of fresh fruits, such as blueberries or ripe bananas, into the dough for added moisture and fruitiness.

Feel free to mix and match these variations for a personalized touch, and don’t forget to try serving them with our guide on creating delicious breakfast spreads to make your breakfast table even more inviting!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Ube Pandesal in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy mornings! You can easily make the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just follow the first few steps up to the first rise, then shape the rolls and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to bake, take them out and allow them to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling in breadcrumbs and baking, ensuring they stay fluffy and delicious. If you prefer, you can also freeze the unbaked rolls for up to 3 months and bake them straight from the freezer (just allow a little extra baking time). Enjoy your perfect, warm Ube Pandesal without the last-minute rush!

Ube Pandesal Recipe FAQs

What type of ube should I use for Ube Pandesal?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use high-quality ube extract or flavoring, as it gives that vibrant color and unique taste. If you can find fresh or frozen ube, you can also use it by steaming, mashing, and incorporating it into your dough.

How do I store my Ube Pandesal?
For optimal freshness, store your Ube Pandesal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 7 days, wrapped tightly to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Ube Pandesal?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Ube Pandesal! To do this, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring they’re well-sealed, and they will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Why did my Ube Pandesal not rise properly?
The lack of rise can often be attributed to inactive yeast. If you’ve used active dry yeast, make sure to proof it properly beforehand. Additionally, ensure your dough is in a warm environment during rising; if it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate effectively. If the dough feels too dense, adding a touch more warm milk could help hydrate and create a fluffier result.

Can my pets eat Ube Pandesal?
It’s best to avoid giving Ube Pandesal to pets. Ingredients like bread, sugar, and dairy can lead to digestive issues or allergies in pets. Always opt for pet-friendly treats to keep your furry friends safe and healthy!

How can I make my Ube Pandesal healthier?
Great question! To make your Ube Pandesal healthier, consider using whole-grain flour instead of white bread flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the sugar content or experiment with natural sweeteners, like honey or maple syrup, for a lighter taste!