Irresistible Ube Cheesecake Bars

If you’re a fan of creamy desserts with a unique twist, Ube Cheesecake Bars are a must-try treat! These vibrant purple bars are inspired by the Filipino love for ube (purple yam), a root vegetable known for its subtly sweet, nutty flavor and stunning hue. Combining the smoothness of cheesecake with the earthy sweetness of ube, these bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply indulging at home.

Here’s how you can create these delightful Ube Cheesecake Bars in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Ube Cheesecake Bars

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Ube Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup ube halaya (ube jam)
• 1 tsp ube extract (optional, for a deeper color and flavor)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass for a smooth finish.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Ube Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the ube halaya, ube extract (if using), heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the batter is smooth and evenly purple.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the ube cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to keep the texture creamy.
3. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

1. Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
2. Slice into bars using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.
3. Serve as is, or garnish with whipped cream, a drizzle of condensed milk, or shredded coconut for an extra touch.

Tips for Success

• Ube Halaya: This is the star ingredient and can be found in Asian grocery stores or online. If unavailable, you can make your own by cooking grated purple yam with condensed milk and butter.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps in your batter.
• Customizations: Add a swirl of plain cheesecake batter on top for a marbled effect or sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top for extra crunch.

Ube Cheesecake Bars are not just a dessert—they’re a conversation starter! Their eye-catching color and unique flavor will leave your guests asking for the recipe. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Philippines in every luscious bite.

Enjoy baking!

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