Description
This Fig and Ube Cheesecake is a stunning fusion dessert that combines the earthy sweetness of ube (purple yam) with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake, topped with luscious fresh figs. The vibrant purple hue, silky texture, and unique flavor make it a showstopping dessert for any occasion. A buttery graham cracker crust perfectly complements the sweet and nutty ube cheesecake filling, while the fresh figs add a touch of elegance and natural sweetness.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Ube Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup ube halaya (ube jam)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ube extract (for deeper color and flavor)
For the Topping:
- 4–5 fresh figs, sliced
- 1/4 cup honey (for drizzling)
- Crushed pistachios or edible flowers (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare the Crust – Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling – In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add ube halaya, sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, salt, and ube extract. Mix until fully combined.
- Add Eggs & Bake – Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Pour the batter over the cooled crust.
- Bake in a Water Bath – Wrap the outside of the pan with foil and place it in a larger baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool & Chill – Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Add the Fig Topping – Before serving, arrange fresh fig slices on top of the cheesecake. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle crushed pistachios or edible flowers if desired.
- Slice & Enjoy – Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, dreamy flavors of ube and fig together!
Notes
- If ube halaya is too thick, warm it slightly to make mixing easier.
- Ube extract enhances color and flavor but can be adjusted based on preference.
- Use a water bath to prevent cracks and ensure a creamy texture.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4+ hours
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Cheesecake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion, Filipino-Inspired
