The moment I lifted the lid off my baking dish, a heavenly blend of tropical scents wafted through my kitchen—sweet, creamy, and undeniably inviting. This is the magic of my Delicious Ube Cassava Cake with Macapuno, a gluten-free Filipino delight that not only looks stunning with its vibrant purple hue but also warms the heart. With a custardy layer on top that’s both rich and comforting, this cake is quick to whip up, making it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering. Moreover, it’s adaptable to suit various dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can indulge. So, are you ready to dive into a flavorful adventure that adds a touch of Filipino tradition to your table?
Why is Ube Cassava Cake So Special?
Creamy, Dreamy Delight: The texture is irresistibly smooth, thanks to the combination of cassava and decadent coconut milk.
Vibrant Presentation: With its stunning purple hue, this cake will brighten any dessert table.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for both kids and adults, it’s a guaranteed hit at gatherings.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy a flavorful dessert that’s suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to get creative! Add crushed pineapple or nuts for a personalized twist.
Elevate your dessert game with this wonderful Ube Cassava Cake. Pair it with fresh mango slices or a scoop of coconut ice cream for an unforgettable experience!
Delicious Ube Cassava Cake Ingredients
For the Cake Base
• Grated Cassava – Provides structure and chewiness; use thawed cassava for better mixability and texture.
• Ube Halaya – Adds a rich, sweet ube flavor; can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
• Ube Extract – Enhances the ube flavor; substitute with additional ube puree if you need a stronger taste.
• Coconut Milk – Contributes creaminess; full-fat coconut milk is recommended for a richer taste.
• Evaporated Milk – Introduces sweetness and creaminess; can be omitted for a lighter dessert.
• Eggs – Essential for binding; can be replaced with flax eggs for a vegan version.
• Butter (Unsalted) – Adds richness and flavor; opt for unsalted to control saltiness.
• Condensed Milk – Contributes sweetness and moisture, enriching the cake’s flavor.
• White Sugar – Sweetens the cake base; coconut sugar can be a healthier alternative.
• Macapuno Strings – Provides a chewy texture and subtle coconut sweetness.
For the Topping
• Salted Butter – Enhances the flavor of the topping for a delicious finish.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the custard; can substitute with gluten-free flour for dietary considerations.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; pure extract is best for maximum aroma.
Dive into this delightful recipe with these ingredients, and enjoy the amazing flavor of this Delicious Ube Cassava Cake!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Delicious Ube Cassava Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Delicious Ube Cassava Cake will bake evenly when the time comes. While the oven warms up, gather your mixing bowls and baking pan to keep everything organized for a smooth cooking experience.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed grated cassava, coconut milk, condensed milk, evaporated milk, ube halaya, ube extract, melted unsalted butter, and white sugar. Use a whisk or spatula to mix until the batter is smooth and creamy, taking about 3–5 minutes. This creamy mixture is the heart of your delicious cake!
Step 3: Fold in Macapuno and Eggs
Next, gently fold in the drained macapuno strings and eggs into your batter. Be careful not to overmix, allowing the mixture to maintain an airy texture, which is key to a light cake. This step should take about 2–3 minutes, ensuring everything is well incorporated without losing fluffiness.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, pour the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula. This step is crucial for even baking, aiming for a level surface that will rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake, as the smell of your Delicious Ube Cassava Cake starts to fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s almost done!
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
While the cake bakes, melt salted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in flour until combined, then gradually stir in sugar, condensed milk, coconut milk, and vanilla extract. Cook until the mixture slightly thickens, around 5–7 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
Step 7: Add the Topping
After your Delicious Ube Cassava Cake has finished baking, carefully spread the topping over the warm cake using a spatula for an even layer. This delicious custardy topping will create a lovely finish and enhance the flavor as it settles into the warm cake.
Step 8: Broil the Topping
Now, set your oven to broil and place the cake back in for 10–12 minutes. Keep a close watch during this time to prevent burning, as the thin layer can caramelize quickly. The goal is to achieve a lovely golden brown color on the topping, adding a delightful finish.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once the topping is nicely browned, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. This cooling period allows the cake to set properly, making it easier to slice. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy your Delicious Ube Cassava Cake warm or at room temperature!
What to Serve with Delicious Ube Cassava Cake
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this delicious cake by enhancing your meal with perfect pairings that sing with tropical flair.
- Coconut Ice Cream: This silky-smooth treat complements the cake’s texture, adding a delightful tropical chill.
- Fresh Mango Slices: The juicy sweetness of ripe mango cuts through the creaminess, creating a refreshing contrast.
- Sticky Rice with Coconut Sauce: A traditional Filipino delight that harmonizes perfectly with the cake’s unique flavors and adds a delightful chew.
- Filipino Coffee: Its rich, bold flavor enhances the sweetness of the cake, making for a comforting dessert experience.
- Sweetened Bananas: Sautéed or grilled, these caramelized bananas bring a warm and flavorful layer to your dessert table.
- Lemonade: The citrusy brightness of lemonade balances the sweetness, offering a refreshing sip between bites.
- Macapuno Sundae: Layering the cake with macapuno-flavored ice cream creates a decadent and texturally delightful dessert experience.
- Passion Fruit Sauce: Drizzled over the cake, this tangy sauce adds an enticing zest that beautifully complements the sweet creaminess.
- Pineapple Chunks: Their juicy, sweet-tart profile introduces a tropical twist, enhancing the cake’s flavors with every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Delicious Ube Cassava Cake
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps your Delicious Ube Cassava Cake fresh while maintaining its creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: Thaw the frozen cake overnight in the fridge before serving. This ensures the flavors and texture remain intact.
Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Delicious Ube Cassava Cake Variations
Feel free to explore these variations and make this delightful cake truly your own!
- Floral Twist: Use lavender-infused sugar for a delicate floral hint. This unexpected touch creates an enchanting aroma that will captivate your guests.
- Tropical Boost: Incorporate crushed pineapple into the batter for added fruitiness. The juicy pineapple pairs wonderfully with the creamy coconut, making each bite a tropical vacation.
- Nutty Flavor: Add roasted cashews or almonds for a satisfying crunch. These nuts not only enhance the texture but also provide a delightful contrast to the soft cake.
- Spice It Up: Stir in cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. These spices add depth and complexity, bringing a cozy feeling reminiscent of festive gatherings.
- Vegan Delight: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and opt for coconut or almond milk. This swap maintains the cake’s creamy nature while catering to plant-based diets.
- Decadent Chocolate: Add cocoa powder or chocolate chips into the batter for a rich chocolate twist. A chocolate version adds a layer of indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Coconut Lover’s Dream: Increase the amount of macapuno and sprinkle shredded coconut on top for a tropical explosion. This totally elevates the coconut experience while enhancing that chewy texture everyone loves.
- Frozen Treat: Make it into a frozen dessert by blending some of the batter with coconut cream and freezing it. This creates a creamy, ice cream-like version that’s perfect for warm days.
Experiment with these variations to tailor this delicious cake to your taste! If you’re looking for more creative ideas, why not also check out my Turtle Cheesecake Dessert or Red Velvet Cheesecakes? You’ll be inspired by those rich flavors too.
Make Ahead Options
These Delicious Ube Cassava Cake with Macapuno are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from drying out. The topping can also be made ahead; simply cook it and refrigerate it separately. When you’re ready to serve, bake the cake and spread the topping on before broiling for that golden finish. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to enjoy with minimal effort, leaving more time for what truly matters!
Expert Tips for Delicious Ube Cassava Cake
- Thawing Cassava: Ensure your grated cassava is fully thawed for smooth mixing; this will help achieve the best texture in your Delicious Ube Cassava Cake.
- Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a light and fluffy cake; a gentle hand goes a long way in keeping it airy.
- Topping Timing: Keep a close eye on the broiling process; the topping can burn quickly, so stay nearby to achieve that perfect golden color.
- Cooling Moment: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing, which helps in creating neat portions and enhances the flavors.
- Draining Macapuno: Make sure to drain your macapuno well to avoid excess moisture, which could make the cake soggy.
Delicious Ube Cassava Cake with Macapuno Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ube for the recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing ube for your Delicious Ube Cassava Cake, look for firm tubers without any dark spots or blemishes. The skin should be smooth, and the flesh should yield slightly under pressure, indicating it’s ripe and ready for cooking. If you’re opting for ube halaya, be sure it’s made from fresh, high-quality ube for the best flavor.
How should I store leftovers of the ube cassava cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This helps maintain the creamy texture and delicious flavor of your Delicious Ube Cassava Cake. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to prevent condensation from making it soggy.
Can I freeze the ube cassava cake?
Yes! You can freeze your Delicious Ube Cassava Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
Very! If your cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not using fully thawed cassava. To achieve a lighter texture in future bakes, be gentle when mixing, especially after adding the eggs and macapuno. Ensure the grated cassava is completely thawed and well-drained before incorporating it into the mixture.
Is this recipe safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The Delicious Ube Cassava Cake recipe is inherently nut-free. However, if you decide to add variations like nuts for crunch, make sure to offer a nut-free version for those with allergies. It’s always best to verify with your guests about their dietary restrictions before preparing your cake.
Can I make this cake vegan? What substitutes would I use?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version of the Delicious Ube Cassava Cake, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg, let sit until gelatinous) and use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk. Tofu can also be a great binding option, blended to a smooth consistency as a replacement for eggs. Enjoy your plant-based baking adventure!
Delicious Ube Cassava Cake: A Creamy Gluten-Free Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed grated cassava, coconut milk, condensed milk, evaporated milk, ube halaya, ube extract, melted unsalted butter, and white sugar. Mix until the batter is smooth and creamy, about 3–5 minutes.
- Gently fold in the drained macapuno strings and eggs. Avoid overmixing for an airy texture.
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and pour the batter into it, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Melt salted butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add sugar, condensed milk, coconut milk, and vanilla extract. Cook until thickened.
- Spread the topping over the warm cake.
- Broil for 10–12 minutes until the topping is golden brown.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.