As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant purple hue of mashed ube caught my eye, and inspiration struck. What if I turned these delightful flavors into soft, fluffy Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese? These uniquely sweet and savory Filipino bread rolls are more than just a treat; they’re quick to prepare and absolutely perfect for any meal. With each bite, you’re met with the delightful combination of rich, slightly sweet ube and the gooey goodness of melted cheese, making them a crowd-pleaser every time. Not only do these pandesal brighten up any breakfast or snack table, but they also invite a whimsical touch to your baking adventures! So, are you ready to dive into the world of ube magic?
Why is Ube Pandesal a Must-Try?
Sweet and Savory Fusion: The combination of rich, sweet ube paired with melty cheese takes traditional pandesal to a whole new level of flavor.
Ultra-Soft Texture: Expect each bite to be pillowy soft, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even delightful desserts!
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether at brunch or as an after-school snack, these rolls are guaranteed to impress family and friends.
Versatile Deliciousness: Customize with different cheeses or toppings for an endless array of variations.
If you love other delightful baked goods, don’t miss out on my versions of Savory Ham Cheese Spinach Puffs or treat yourself with these Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Cups!
Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese Ingredients
For the Dough
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s between 105 to 115°F for best results.
- Active Dry Yeast – Essential for rising; can be substituted with instant yeast, adjusting activation methods as needed.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast; you can use honey as a substitute but tweak the liquid amounts accordingly.
- Butter (softened) – Provides richness; coconut oil works as a dairy-free alternative.
- Eggs (lightly beaten) – Contributes to structure; replace with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) for a vegan option.
- Warm Milk – Enhances moisture; almond or soy milk can substitute for dairy-free needs.
- Mashed Cooked Ube – The star ingredient giving flavor and color; you can use reconstituted ube powder for convenience.
- Liquid Ube Flavoring – Amplifies ube flavor; optional if using high-quality or fresh ube.
- Salt – Balances flavors and regulates yeast activity.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure; a gluten-free blend can be used, noting the texture may vary.
- Vegetable Oil (for kneading) – Ensures smooth kneading; olive oil or any neutral oil can be used.
For the Filling
- Velveeta Cheese (or other quick-melt cheese) – Delivers gooey goodness in each roll; substitutes include cheddar or mozzarella if desired.
For the Coating
- Bread Crumbs – Adds texture to the rolls; try using panko for extra crunch.
Enjoy this Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese at any gathering or meal for a delightful experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese
Step 1: Proof the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of warm water (105 to 115°F), 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring that your Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese rises beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, blend the yeast mixture with 2 tablespoons of softened butter, 1 lightly beaten egg, 1/2 cup of warm milk, 1/2 cup of mashed ube, 1 teaspoon of liquid ube flavoring, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and evenly incorporated, creating a vibrant, fragrant dough base for your pandesal.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Gradually add 3 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough begins to form. Once combined, the dough should be sticky but manageable; use additional flour sparingly to maintain softness. Transition to kneading by lightly flouring your work surface.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly greased surface and knead for about 10 minutes. Use a bench scraper if needed to help manage the dough. Continue until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. This ensures your Ube Pandesal is perfectly fluffy and light.
Step 5: First Rise
Grease a large mixing bowl with vegetable oil, then place the kneaded dough inside, ensuring it’s coated. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step develops the dough’s flavor and texture, essential for those delightful rolls.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
After the first rise, gently deflate the dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a log and cut it into 14 equal pieces. Flatten each piece, place a small square of Velveeta cheese in the center, and seal it by folding the edges. Roll in breadcrumbs for an appealing crust.
Step 7: Second Rise
Place the formed rolls on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to expand. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30 to 60 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up noticeably. This second rise will give your Ube Pandesal a soft texture and airy bite.
Step 8: Bake the Pandesal
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once heated, bake the rolls for 20 to 23 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them as they bake; their inviting aroma will surely fill your kitchen, indicating they’re almost ready. Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving for optimal gooey cheese enjoyment.
Expert Tips for Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese
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Correct Temperature: Ensure your warm water is between 105 to 115°F when proofing the yeast; too hot will kill it, impacting your dough’s rise.
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Manage Stickiness: The dough will be sticky; use oil on your hands and work surface instead of excess flour to maintain a fluffy texture in your Ube Pandesal.
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Windowpane Test: Check your dough by stretching a small piece; it should form a translucent film without tearing. This confirms it’s kneaded appropriately for the best results.
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Cool Before Serving: Let your baked pandesal cool slightly after baking. The cheese filling can be extremely hot right out of the oven, so allow a moment to avoid burns.
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Experiment with Filling: Feel free to swap out the Velveeta cheese with other quick-melt options or experiment with cheddar or gouda for different flavors in your Ube Pandesal.
Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful recipe just for you!
- Cheese Switch: Try substituting Velveeta with gouda or cheddar for a different cheesy experience. Each cheese variation brings its unique flavor profile to the rolls.
- Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) and use coconut oil instead of butter for a fully vegan version. Who says you can’t enjoy pandesal without eggs or dairy?
- Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for those with gluten sensitivities. The texture may differ, but you’ll still enjoy the charm of this beloved bread!
- Sweet and Crunchy: Top the rolls with sesame seeds or shredded coconut before baking for added flavor and a delightful crunch. These toppings can truly elevate the budding flavors!
- Flavor Boost: Enhance your ube flavor by adding a few drops of ube extract to the dough. It’s a small change that can make your rolls even more delicious!
- Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the dough for a subtle kick. This intriguing blend of flavors can surprise even the most traditional eaters!
- Mini Pandesal: Shape smaller rolls by dividing the dough into 20 pieces instead of 14. These bite-sized pandesals make for perfect snacks or appetizers at gatherings!
- Fillings Galore: Experiment with different fillings like melted chocolate or cream cheese alongside the cheese for a uniquely sweet-savory experience, much like my delicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Tacos.
These variations can add a whole new dimension to your Ube Pandesal experience. Enjoy every delightful bite!
What to Serve with Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese
As you bask in the soft, fluffy goodness of these rolls, why not enhance your experience with delightful pairings that elevate each bite?
- Rich Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee complements the sweet and savory flavors, creating a cozy breakfast moment.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits like mango and pineapple offer a refreshing contrast to the rich ube pandesal, bringing a zing to your palate.
- Coconut Jam: Spread this creamy, sweet topping over your pandesal for an added layer of tropical flavor, enhancing the ube’s natural sweetness.
- Herbed Butter: Infuse unsalted butter with herbs like thyme and parsley for a savory dip that balances the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a cup of rich hot chocolate alongside your pandesal for a comforting, sweet treat that satisfies every craving.
- Avocado Toast: Spread creamy avocado on lightly toasted pandesal for a delectable twist, combining nutritious fats with the sweet ube.
- Mango Smoothie: Smooth and creamy with a hint of sweetness, a mango smoothie perfectly complements the texture and flavors of the pandesal.
- Filipino-style Cocoa: Enjoy with a warm cup of tablea (pure cocoa), which adds a lovely depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheese filling.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar transforms your warm pandesal into a sugary treat that’s a delightful surprise!
- Coconut Flan: For a sweet finish, serve with this creamy dessert that echoes the ube’s tropical essence, leaving a lasting impression on your taste buds.
How to Store and Freeze Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese
Room Temperature: Keep cooked Ube Pandesal in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and softness.
Fridge: If storing for longer, refrigerate the rolls in an airtight container for up to a week. Reheat before serving to bring back the fluffy texture.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the pandesal for up to 3 months. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and melty.
Make Ahead Options
These Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the first five steps, then cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and letting it rise a second time. Alternatively, you can shape the rolls and place them on a baking sheet for the second rise, covering them tightly with plastic wrap; they can sit in the fridge for up to 3 days. If freezing, once shaped, wrap each roll tightly and store for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and let them rise before baking, ensuring the same fluffy texture for your delightful ube treats!
Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ube for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting ube, look for tubers that are firm with a vibrant purple color. Avoid any that have dark spots or are soft to the touch, as these may be overripe. Fresh ube should feel heavy for its size, and the flesh inside should be smooth and unblemished.
What is the best way to store Ube Pandesal?
Very easy! Store your cooked Ube Pandesal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fluffy and delicious! For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, and don’t forget to reheat before serving for that fresh-baked taste.
Can I freeze Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. These can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain that soft texture.
What to do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, check the yeast. It may be inactive if the water temperature was too hot or the yeast is expired. Start by checking that the water is at the right temperature (between 105 to 115°F) and allow it to proof until foamy. If it doesn’t, you may need to start again with fresh yeast.
Are these Ube Pandesal safe for pets?
Great question! While Ube itself is not toxic to dogs, the rolls contain ingredients like butter and sugar that aren’t suitable for pets. It’s best to keep these rolls as a treat for humans and avoid sharing them with your furry friends to ensure their health.
Can I make Ube Pandesal gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make Ube Pandesal gluten-free. However, be aware that the texture may vary slightly. Make sure your gluten-free flour blend contains xanthan gum to help with the structure of the rolls.
Ube Pandesal with Melty Cheese – A Flavorful Filipino Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Proof the yeast: Combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let sit until foamy.
- Mix the ingredients: Blend yeast mixture with butter, egg, warm milk, mashed ube, liquid ube flavoring, and salt.
- Form the dough: Add flour gradually until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Knead the dough on a greased surface until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Let the dough rise in a greased bowl covered with a towel for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Shape the rolls: Cut dough into 14 pieces, fill with cheese, seal, and roll in breadcrumbs.
- Second rise: Let the rolls rise on a baking sheet for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Bake the pandesal: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 20 to 23 minutes until golden.
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