There’s a delightful surprise that awaits when you take your first bite of Ube Leche Flan Cake. Imagine the luxurious layers—a creamy, velvety leche flan sitting regally atop a light, fluffy ube cake, each forkful offering the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors. This vibrant and visually stunning dessert isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s remarkably simple to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for everything from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
After a recent potluck, I realized that fast food desserts just couldn’t compete with homemade treats that carry a personal touch. With a joyful heart, I dove into this rich Filipino classic, blending tradition with flavor in a way that left everyone raving. Whether shared among friends or enjoyed in the solitude of your kitchen after a long day, this Ube Leche Flan Cake promises to elevate any occasion, transforming simple moments into memorable experiences. Let’s get started on creating a dessert that’s not only easy to make but guaranteed to impress!
Why Is Ube Leche Flan Cake So Irresistible?
Indulgent flavors await you in every bite with this cake! The creamy flan contrasts beautifully with the fluffy ube cake, making it a perfect treat for any gathering. Easy to make, it demands just minimal cooking skills, yet produces a stunning result. With several fun variations to explore, like adding coconut or a chocolate twist, you’ll keep everyone excited for more. Plus, it’s a true crowd-pleaser, ideal for parties or cozy family dinners. If you’re looking for a delightful way to impress your guests, this dessert will surely tantalize their taste buds!
Ube Leche Flan Cake Ingredients
• Discover the essential components for this decadent Filipino dessert!
For the Caramel Layer
- Granulated Sugar – Creates the luscious caramel topping; ensure even melting for that perfect amber color.
For the Flan
- Egg Yolks – These provide a creamy, rich texture essential for the perfect flan.
- Condensed Milk – Adds a delightful creaminess and sweetness; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Evaporated Milk – Lightens the flan while maintaining its richness; can be replaced with coconut milk for dairy-free delight.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses a warm and inviting flavor into your flan.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
For the Cake
- Egg Whites – Whipped to soft peaks for a light, airy cake texture.
- Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes the egg whites for a fluffy rise as the cake bakes.
- Oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender, ensuring each bite is delightful.
- Cold Water – Maintains the batter’s light texture for a perfectly fluffy cake.
- Ube Extract – Provides that signature vibrant purple color and unique flavor.
- Plain Flour – Offers structure and stability to the cake.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring your cake rises beautifully.
Bonus Tips:
- Whip up an easy Ube Leche Flan Cake that not only looks stunning but shines in flavor!
How to Make Ube Leche Flan Cake
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is crucial for getting that perfect, fluffy cake texture you desire.
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Prepare the caramel: In a pot, heat granulated sugar over medium heat until it melts and turns an amber color. Quickly pour the caramel into an 8-inch cake tin, swirling it to coat the bottom evenly. Let it set before adding the flan layer.
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Mix flan ingredients: In a bowl, combine egg yolks, condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Strain the mixture through a sieve for a smooth texture, then pour it gently over the set caramel.
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Whip egg whites: In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat. The goal is to achieve a light, fluffy consistency.
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Combine yolks and wet ingredients: In another bowl, whip remaining egg yolks with sugar, then stir in oil, cold water, and ube extract. Gently whisk in plain flour and baking powder until just combined.
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Fold: Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture. This step is key to retaining the airiness of your cake. Pour this batter over the flan layer in the cake tin.
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Set up a water bath: Place your cake tin in a larger baking tray filled with boiling water, halfway up the sides of the tin. This ensures even baking and keeps your cake moist.
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Bake: Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Let it cool to room temperature afterward.
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Chill: Refrigerate your cake overnight. This resting period not only enhances the flavors but also makes it easier to slice when serving the next day.
Optional: Serve slices with some fresh fruits for a delightful texture contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ube Leche Flan Cake?
Creating an extraordinary meal doesn’t have to stop at dessert. As you savor the rich layers of this delightful cake, consider some perfect companions to elevate your dining experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and berries adds refreshing bursts of flavor that complement the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Topping your slice with this light and fluffy cream introduces a wonderful creaminess that pairs seamlessly with the ube and flan layers.
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Matcha Green Tea: The earthy notes of matcha provide a pleasant contrast to the sweet dessert, enhancing its flavors while offering a unique twist.
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Sweetened Condensed Milk Drizzle: A drizzle of this rich sauce over the cake enhances its taste and adds an indulgent touch everyone will love.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These delightful treats not only look stunning alongside the vibrant cake but also interject a rich chocolatey flavor to balance the dessert’s sweetness.
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Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty, creamy ice cream brings a delightful textural contrast and an extra hint of flavor that harmonizes with the unique taste of ube.
With these pairing ideas, each slice of Ube Leche Flan Cake will become a memorable experience to share with your loved ones!
Storage Tips for Ube Leche Flan Cake
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Fridge: Keep any leftover Ube Leche Flan Cake in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container; you can freeze it for up to 2 months.
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Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw your cake in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor retention before serving.
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Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, ensuring not to overheat, which may alter the texture.
Ube Leche Flan Cake Variations
Transform your delightful Ube Leche Flan Cake with these fun twists tailored to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the flan mixture for a delightful tropical flavor that will transport you to paradise. The coconut flakes add an unexpected crunch, bringing extra richness and texture to every slice.
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Chocolate Delight: Mix cocoa powder into the cake batter for an indulgent chocolate-flavored cake. This variation yields a luscious chocolatey surprise, perfectly complementing the creamy flan layer for a decadent dessert experience.
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Nutty Crunch: Include chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds in the batter to add a delightful crunch. This nutty addition not only enhances the flavor profile but also gives the cake a pleasant texture contrast for those who love a bit of bite.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate zest from an orange or lemon for a refreshing lift. The hint of citrus brightens the flavors, cutting through the sweetness and adding a delightful zing that rounds out each bite beautifully.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute evaporated and condensed milk with coconut products to make a dairy-free version without sacrificing creaminess. This is a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this cultural gem.
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Vanilla Bean: For a luxurious upgrade, blend in the seeds from a vanilla bean pod into your flan mixture. The tiny specks of vanilla seeds not only elevate the visual appeal but also infuse your dessert with an aromatic depth that’s hard to resist.
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Matcha Infusion: Add matcha powder to the cake batter for a unique green tea flavor twist. This intriguing spin not only offers a vibrant color contrast but also introduces a subtly earthy taste that pairs well with the sweetness of the flan.
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Spiced Flavor: Enhance the cake with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced aroma. These cozy spices add complexity, making your Ube Leche Flan Cake perfect for fall gatherings or festive occasions.
Expert Tips for Ube Leche Flan Cake
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Even Caramel Melting: Ensure sugar melts uniformly to avoid burnt caramel, which can affect the cake’s flavor.
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Silky Flan Texture: Always strain the flan mixture through a sieve to achieve a smooth, luxurious texture for the Ube Leche Flan Cake.
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Gentle Egg Folding: When combining the whipped egg whites into the batter, fold gently to maintain the airy texture necessary for a light cake.
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Proper Water Bath: Use a well-set water bath to guarantee even baking and moisture, preventing a dry cake.
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Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate the cake overnight for the best flavor development and to make cutting easier when serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Ube Leche Flan Cakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor delightful homemade dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the flan layer up to 24 hours in advance; simply let it cool and refrigerate after setting. Additionally, you can whip up the cake batter up to 3 days ahead; store it in the refrigerator before folding in the beaten egg whites to maintain its airy texture. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the flan and cake layers and follow the usual steps to bake. To ensure quality, keep your cake covered while chilling, and enjoy a dessert that’s just as delicious, save time, and impress your guests!
Ube Leche Flan Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe and fresh ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresher ingredients. Select eggs that are firm and fresh—crack a couple open to check for quality if you’re unsure. For ube extract, look for a vibrant purple and a fragrant scent for added flavor. If you opt for coconut alternatives, ensure they are pure and have no additives.
What is the best way to store leftover Ube Leche Flan Cake?
You can keep any leftover slices of Ube Leche Flan Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re trying to make it last longer, wrap the portions tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying again!
Can I freeze Ube Leche Flan Cake, and how do I do it properly?
Of course! Freezing this delicious cake is very easy. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. For the best taste and texture, consume it within 2 months. When ready to indulge, take it out and let it thaw in the refrigerator for about 6-8 hours or overnight for perfect results!
What should I do if the flan layer is not set after baking?
If the flan layer hasn’t set, don’t worry! It may just need more time in the oven. Bake the cake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean. If you notice the top is darkening too much, cover it with foil to prevent burning while the flan finishes cooking.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Very much so! This recipe contains eggs and dairy, which are common allergens. If you’re making it for someone with allergies, consider substituting with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk instead of evaporated and condensed milk. Coconut cream is also a great substitute! Always check ingredient labels to ensure they’re safe for those with dietary restrictions.
How can I achieve a silky-smooth texture for the flan?
To ensure your flan has that luxurious, silky texture, always strain the mixture through a fine sieve before pouring it into the cake tin. This process removes any chalazae—those little bits from the egg yolks that can cause a grainy texture. It might seem like an extra step, but trust me, the result is well worth the effort!
Irresistible Ube Leche Flan Cake: A Sweet Filipino Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a pot, heat granulated sugar over medium heat until it melts and turns amber. Quickly pour into an 8-inch cake tin and let it set.
- Combine egg yolks, condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Strain the mixture and pour over the caramel.
- Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form, gradually adding sugar until fluffy.
- Whip remaining egg yolks with sugar, stir in oil, cold water, and ube extract. Mix in flour and baking powder until combined.
- Fold whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture and pour over the flan layer in the cake tin.
- Place the cake tin in a larger baking tray filled with boiling water for even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate overnight to enhance flavors and ease slicing when serving.