As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant purple hue of ube caught my eye, transporting me to sun-drenched markets in the Philippines. It’s amazing how one ingredient can unlock a world of flavor, and that’s exactly what you’ll achieve with these delightful Ube Cream Puffs. These airy pastries boast a crispy shell enveloping a luscious ube custard that is both sweet and subtly nutty. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert to impress guests or simply want to elevate your baking game, these cream puffs offer a unique twist that’s surprisingly easy to master. Plus, they can be made gluten-free, making them a crowd-pleaser for all! Ready to dive into a fusion of textures and colors that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Let’s get started!

Why Are Ube Cream Puffs a Must-Try?

Unforgettable Flavor: The unique, nutty taste of ube elevates these cream puffs from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a delightful dessert experience.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you’ll be proud to whip up this bakery-quality treat right in your own kitchen.

Versatile Options: Whether you stick to classic ube or get creative with substitutes like purple sweet potato or taro, the possibilities are endless!

Impressive Presentation: The stunning purple filling makes for a show-stopping dessert that will have your guests in awe. Pair them with these delightful Garlicky Brussels Sprouts for a well-rounded meal!

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these ube cream puffs are sure to please all palates, even those who might be new to ube!

Ube Cream Puff Ingredients

• Get ready to make magic with ube!

For the Choux Pastry

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and fat for the pastry; use dairy-free for a vegan option.
Whole Milk – Provides moisture and creaminess; substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Water – Helps create steam for puffing the pastry; no substitutions needed.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and enhances flavor; can be reduced for a less sweet puff.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; no substitutions needed.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the pastry; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
Large Eggs – Provides structure and moisture; egg substitutes are not recommended for this recipe.

For the Ube Cream Filling

Ube Halaya (mashed sweet purple yam) – Sweet, flavor-packed filling; can be substituted with mashed purple sweet potato or taro paste if ube is unavailable.
Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the filling; replace with additional milk for a lighter option.
Cornstarch – Thickens the ube filling; can be substituted with arrowroot powder.
Egg Yolks – Adds richness and helps to thicken the filling; substitutions are not recommended.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; can be omitted for a more basic flavor.

These Ube Cream Puffs are a delightful way to bring unique flavors to your dessert table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Cream Puffs

Step 1: Make the Choux Pastry Dough
In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of whole milk, ½ cup of water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it reaches a boil, quickly add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and stir vigorously until the dough forms a smooth ball that pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the dough cool for about 5 minutes. Then, add 4 large eggs, one at a time, stirring well after each addition until the dough becomes glossy and smooth. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough holds its shape and forms a ribbon when you lift it with a spatula. This consistency is key for achieving perfectly puffy Ube Cream Puffs!

Step 3: Pipe the Dough
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Using a piping bag fitted with a large round tip, pipe the dough into 2-inch rounds, spaced about 2 inches apart. Aim for a smooth top to ensure even baking. Once piped, use a wet finger to smooth any peaks, creating a neat appearance for your Ube Cream Puffs.

Step 4: Bake the Pastry
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. After this initial baking, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this may cause the puffs to collapse.

Step 5: Cool the Puffs
Once baked, remove the Ube Cream Puffs from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling allows the steam to escape and ensures the shells remain crisp. Do not fill them until they are completely cool to prevent sogginess—this step is crucial for retaining their delightful texture!

Step 6: Prepare the Ube Cream Filling
In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup of ube halaya, ½ cup of whole milk, ½ cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 2 egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened and bubbly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and let it cool in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Step 7: Fill the Puffs
Once the Ube Cream Filling is chilled, use a small sharp knife to cut or poke a hole in the bottom of each cooled cream puff. Fill a piping bag with the ube cream and carefully pipe it into each puff until they feel full and slightly heavy. This ensures every bite of your Ube Cream Puffs is bursting with creamy goodness.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Optionally, dust the filled Ube Cream Puffs with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation. Serve these unique pastries as an impressive dessert that will wow your guests with their stunning purple filling and delightful flavor. Enjoy the wonderful texture and taste that make these Ube Cream Puffs a must-try treat!

How to Store and Freeze Ube Cream Puffs

Room Temperature: Ube cream puffs are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container for up to 1 day at room temperature.
Fridge: If filled, store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Keep the puffs unfilled until shortly before serving to maintain their crispy texture.
Freezer: To freeze unfilled Ube Cream Puffs, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to an airtight container for up to 1 month. Fill them after thawing for the best taste.
Reheating: If refrigerated or frozen, reheat unfilled puffs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes until warm and crispy before filling.

What to Serve with Dreamy Ube Cream Puffs?

Indulge in a vibrant culinary experience that enhances the flavors and textures of your delicious creation.

Earl Grey Tea: The subtle floral notes and bergamot in Earl Grey harmonize beautifully with the nutty ube, making it a soothing accompaniment.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet treats add a delightful contrast to the airy cream puffs while echoing the tropical flavor of ube.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brightens the palate and provides a refreshing, juicy counterpoint to the rich cream filling.
Pistachio Ice Cream: Creamy and nutty, this ice cream pairs perfectly with Ube Cream Puffs, enhancing their unique flavor and adding a fun color contrast.
Almond Milk Latte: The nuttiness of almond milk balances the sweet ube custard, creating a smooth, comforting drink to sip alongside.
Matcha Green Tea: The earthy flavor of matcha adds depth to the sweetness of the puffs, creating a sophisticated pairing that delights the senses.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These decadent dips bring a touch of romance and complement the sweet nuttiness of ube with rich chocolate flavors.
Mini Cheesecakes: A rich, creamy dessert that adds a luxurious finish, offering a delightful bite-sized treat that contrasts nicely with the cream puffs.
Mango Sticky Rice: This sweet Thai dessert is a delicious fusion that echoes ube’s sweetness, beautifully combining creamy and chewy textures.

Expert Tips for Ube Cream Puffs

Cool the Dough: Allow the choux pastry to cool slightly before adding eggs; this prevents cooking the eggs unintentionally, which may affect texture.
Don’t Peek: Avoid opening the oven during baking; it could cause your Ube Cream Puffs to deflate. Wait until they’re golden brown and sound hollow.
Right Before Serving: Fill your puffs just before serving to keep them crispy. If filled too early, they can become soggy and lose that delightful crunch.
Check Your Fillings: If using store-bought ube halaya, taste it first! Adjust sugar in the filling recipe accordingly to keep the balance just right.
Practice Piping: Try piping a few practice rounds on parchment paper before baking to master the perfect shape for your Ube Cream Puffs.
Storage Tips: If making ahead, freeze unfilled puffs and fill them on the day you plan to serve for optimal freshness.

Ube Cream Puffs Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to bring your creative flair to these delightful cream puffs with some fun and tasty variations!

Sweet Potato Swap: Replace ube halaya with mashed purple sweet potato for a similarly sweet and earthy flavor twist.
Vegan Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and non-dairy milk for a delicious vegan filling. This will still yield a creamy and rich experience!
Chocolate Drizzle: For a rich contrast, drizzle melted dark chocolate over filled puffs before serving. The combination of chocolate and ube is simply irresistible.
Berry Burst: Add fresh berries to the ube filling for a delightful burst of tartness; blueberries or strawberries work beautifully for an extra fruity zing.
Matcha Infusion: Mix in a teaspoon of matcha powder into your custard for an exciting green tea flavor—this also adds a lovely color contrast!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a dash of cayenne or chili powder in the ube filling for a surprising sweet-heat combination that adds depth to the dessert.
Creamy Alternative: Swap out milk with almond or oat milk for a lighter twist while keeping the texture satisfying and creamy—perfect for dairy-free diets!
Miniature Puffs: Make bite-sized versions by piping small dollops of dough, perfect for parties or gatherings. These mini treats are sure to wow your guests!

For those seeking more inspiration, consider pairing your Ube Cream Puffs with these flavorful Garlicky Brussels Sprouts as a side dish for a delightful dining experience!

Make Ahead Options

These dreamy Ube Cream Puffs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the choux pastry up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to bake. It’s best to bake the pastry fresh for optimal texture. The ube cream filling can be made up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy consistency. When you’re ready to impress your friends and family, bake the puffs, let them cool, fill them with the chilled ube cream, and enjoy a dessert that’s just as delicious as if it were freshly made!

Ube Cream Puffs Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ube?
Absolutely! When choosing ube, look for firm tubers that are rich in color, ideally a vibrant purple without dark spots or blemishes. If purchasing ube halaya, check for a smooth consistency and avoid options with excessive sugar if you want to control sweetness.

How should I store Ube Cream Puffs, and how long will they last?
Ube cream puffs are best enjoyed fresh! If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container for up to 1 day at room temperature. If filled, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for optimal texture, I recommend filling them just before serving!

Can I freeze Ube Cream Puffs?
Yes, you can! To freeze unfilled Ube Cream Puffs, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight, then fill with the cream filling for the best taste and texture.

What should I do if my cream puffs deflate after baking?
Very! If your Ube Cream Puffs deflate, it could be due to underbaking; be sure they’re golden and sound hollow when tapped. Ensure the dough cools slightly before adding the eggs, as adding them too early could mess with the texture. If you face trouble, try ensuring an even bake next time!

Are there any dietary considerations for Ube Cream Puffs?
Absolutely! To make them gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend that works well for baking. If you have dairy allergies, substitute the milk and cream with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free butter. For vegan options, you can use dairy-free substitutes for butter and milk, but I recommend sticking to eggs for this recipe to maintain proper structure.