0 Shares

The first time I tasted ube, I was struck by its earthy sweetness and vibrant color—it felt like a little slice of sunshine on a plate. That’s why I’m so excited to share my recipe for Ube Crinkle Cookies! With their stunning purple hue and a texture that strikes the perfect balance between soft and chewy, these cookies are a delightful way to bring a taste of the Philippines into your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy evenings to festive gatherings, this easy-to-follow recipe ensures you’ll produce cookies that are not only visually striking but also bursting with nutty undertones and subtle hints of vanilla. Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them a treat that everyone can enjoy! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this sweet adventure—you won’t be disappointed!

Why are Ube Crinkle Cookies a must-try?

Vibrant Color: These cookies feature a stunning purple hue that’s sure to impress friends and family.
Easy Preparation: This simple recipe makes it possible for anyone to produce bakery-quality cookies with minimal effort.
Gluten-Free Delight: Options for gluten-free flour make them suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
Perfect Texture: Enjoy a wonderfully soft and chewy bite, reminiscent of heavenly brownies!
Cultural Twist: Infusing Filipino flavors into your baking not only enhances the experience but also celebrates diversity.
Crowd-Pleaser: From dinner parties to family gatherings, these cookies are bound to be a hit, so check out the full recipe and let the taste take you away!

Ingredients for Ube Crinkle Cookies

For the Cookie Dough
• Softened Butter or Coconut Oil – Adds richness and moisture; coconut oil is a great dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to the delightful crackle when rolled.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a chewy texture.
• Ube Halaya or Ube Jam – Provides unique flavor and vibrant purple color; choose one with a good nutty taste.
• Ube Extract – Enhances the ube flavor; an extra drop can intensify it.
• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour or Regular All-Purpose Flour – Use according to dietary needs, both yield soft cookies.
• Baking Powder – Aids in leavening for puffy cookies.
• Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

For the Coating
• Granulated Sugar for Rolling – Provides a sparkly finish on the cookie exterior.
• Powdered Sugar – Dusts the cookies for an appealing snowy look.

Enjoy making these Ube Crinkle Cookies, where every bite brings a burst of color and delightful flavor!

How to Make Ube Crinkle Cookies

Prep Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whip together granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step creates a base that will result in soft, airy cookies.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, ube halaya, and ube extract. Whip until everything is well combined for a smooth, vibrant purple batter that smells delightful.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Stir until a thick dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Chill Dough: Flatten the dough into a disc, cover it with plastic wrap, and freeze for 1 hour. This chilling step is crucial for achieving a perfect crackle and chewy texture.
Preheat Oven: While the dough chills, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring your cookies bake evenly.
Coat Dough Balls: In separate bowls, place granulated sugar and powdered sugar. Scoop 2 tablespoons of chilled dough, roll it into a ball, and coat first in granulated sugar and then in powdered sugar for that signature crinkle.
Bake Cookies: Place coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 11-13 minutes until puffed and a crackly surface forms.
Cool and Serve: Let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack, allowing them to set perfectly before enjoying.

Optional: Dust with additional powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Ube Crinkle Cookies Variations

Customize your Ube Crinkle Cookies to enhance their flavor and texture—your creativity knows no bounds!

Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of gluten-free all-purpose flour for a nutty twist and unique texture.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or macadamia nuts to the dough for a crunchy contrast to the soft cookie. This brings an exciting texture to every bite!
Chocolate Swirl: Fold in melted chocolate or chocolate chips for a rich flavor that complements the ube beautifully. Your taste buds will dance with joy!
Coconut Infusion: Incorporate shredded coconut into the dough for an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the ube.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and cozy spice note that elevates the overall taste. It’s like a hug in cookie form!
Vanilla Bean: Replace ube extract with vanilla bean paste for a different yet delightful flavor while still keeping the cookies soft and chewy.
Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk in place of regular milk or butter to maintain that rich, moist texture while catering to dairy restrictions.
Color Twist: Experiment with food coloring to create a fun pastel version for special occasions, making the cookies a visual treat as well as a tasty one!

How to Store and Freeze Ube Crinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them soft and chewy. Enjoy the delightful flavor for a sweet snack anytime!

Fridge: These cookies can be kept in a covered container for up to 1 week. The cooler temperatures can help them maintain their freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and simply thaw before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked softness, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring they remain deliciously chewy!

What to Serve with Ube Crinkle Cookies?

Indulge in the delightful experience of pairing these colorful treats with delicious accompaniments that enhance their unique flavor profile.

Cold Milk: A classic pair that complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a comforting balance with every bite.
Rich Coffee: The deep flavors of a freshly brewed coffee contrast beautifully with the cookie’s nutty undertones, making each nibble richer.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Adding a tropical flair, this light and fluffy topping enhances the ube’s flavor while delivering a delightful creaminess.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the chewy texture, making a wonderfully sweet dessert experience.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing burst of acidity that cuts through the sweetness and pairs well with the colorful cookies.
Dessert Wine: A glass of sweet dessert wine or sparkling rosé can elevate your dessert experience, enhancing the ube flavors beautifully.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Melted chocolate creates an indulgent treat—just dip those cookies for a rich and sweet contrast that will surely impress.
Coconut Macaroons: Their chewy texture and subtle coconut flavor will harmonize with the ube, creating an elegant dessert duo that fans will love.

Make Ahead Options

You can easily make Ube Crinkle Cookies ahead of time, saving precious minutes during your busy week! To prep in advance, chill the dough and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months; just make sure to label it clearly. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the refrigerated dough overnight in the fridge or let frozen dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Roll and coat your dough balls as usual, then bake as directed for fresh cookies that are just as delicious and packed with flavor!

Expert Tips for Ube Crinkle Cookies

Chill Thoroughly: Ensure you chill the dough for the full hour for a beautifully crackled texture. Skipping this may result in less distinctive cookies.

Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Over-baking can lead to dryness, while under-baking may make them fall apart.

Roll Evenly: For uniform baking, roll your dough balls evenly. This enhances their crackled appearance and ensures they bake consistently.

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh ube extract and halaya for the best flavor. Stale ingredients can dull the vibrant taste you’re aiming for.

Sift the Powders: Sift your powdered sugar before dusting for an even snow-like finish on your Ube Crinkle Cookies. This simple step elevates their aesthetic charm!

Ube Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of ube should I use for the best flavor?
When selecting ube for your Ube Crinkle Cookies, I recommend using Ube Halaya or Ube Jam of high quality that showcases a nutty taste. Look for brands where ube is the primary ingredient, and avoid those with excessive fillers. This choice will ensure the cookies provide that delightful flavor that enhances the overall experience.

How should I store Ube Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your Ube Crinkle Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, you can place them in the fridge, where they will maintain their soft texture for up to 1 week.

Can Ube Crinkle Cookies be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze Ube Crinkle Cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, after they have cooled completely, layer them with parchment paper between each cookie to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a while or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their soft, chewy texture.

What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough seems too sticky to handle, it’s very likely that it needs more chilling. This can happen if it’s warm in your kitchen or if it’s been too humid. Just put it back in the fridge for an extra 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, lightly dust your hands and the work surface with a bit of gluten-free flour while shaping the dough balls—this can help manage stickiness without altering your cookie batter.

Are there any dietary considerations for Ube Crinkle Cookies?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free all-purpose flour. Just ensure you check the labels to avoid any cross-contamination with gluten for those with severe gluten allergies. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter; it works beautifully and contributes a lovely flavor to the cookies.

How long will the Ube Crinkle Cookies stay fresh?
If stored properly in an airtight container, the Ube Crinkle Cookies will last about 3 days at room temperature, up to 1 week in the fridge, and can be frozen for up to 3 months. For optimal taste and texture, enjoy them within a week.