Ube Crunch Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a showstopper dessert that’s equal parts vibrant, creamy, and satisfyingly crunchy, the Ube Crunch Cake is the dreamy treat you never knew you needed. Inspired by the beloved pumpkin crunch cake and infused with the irresistible flavors of Filipino ube, this delightful cake features a lusciously smooth ube filling and a magical, buttery, nutty topping that cracks with every bite. It’s a party pleaser and a family favorite, transforming simple pantry staples and a little purple magic into a cake that’ll have everyone clamoring for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This beautiful fusion cake comes together with just a handful of ingredients. Each one is essential for creating the balance of creamy filling and crunchy topping that makes Ube Crunch Cake such a memorable dessert. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips to guarantee dessert success:

• Ube Halaya: This sweet purple yam jam brings the cake’s signature color and subtly nutty, vanilla-like flavor. Try to use one that’s thick and not too sweet.
• Heavy Cream: Lends richness and silkiness to the filling, making every bite feel decadent.
• Coconut Milk (from a can): For an added creaminess and touch of tropical aroma. Full-fat is best!
• Ube Extract: Intensifies both the flavor and color—add a little more if you want a deeper purple hue.
• Granulated Sugar: Adjust this based on your ube halaya’s sweetness. It rounds out the flavors without overpowering.
• Eggs: Give structure and set the creamy filling as it bakes. Use room temperature eggs for even mixing.
• Chopped Nuts (walnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, or hazelnuts): These add crunch and a roasty flavor pop. Macadamias are my personal pick for extra decadence!
• Yellow Cake Mix (1 box): This shortcut creates the beloved crumbly, crunchy top. No mixing needed—just sprinkle!
• Unsalted Butter (melted): Soaks into the cake mix and nuts, forming golden, buttery clusters as the cake bakes.

How to Make Ube Crunch Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Ube Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine your ube halaya, eggs, sugar, heavy cream, coconut milk, and ube extract. Give it a good whisk or use a hand mixer if you like—it’s essential to blend until the mixture is velvety smooth and a dazzling shade of purple. This is your flavor-packed, pudding-like base that sets the stage for the whole Ube Crunch Cake.

Step 2: Pour and Smooth

Butter and line a 9×13-inch baking dish. Carefully pour your rich ube filling into the dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Leveling the top ensures a uniform set and a gorgeous finished look.

Step 3: Layer the Crunch

Here’s where the crunch magic happens! Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix straight from the box evenly over the purple filling. Don’t press or mix—just a gentle snowfall. Then, slowly drizzle the melted butter all over, making sure to cover as much of the surface as you can. Top everything with an even layer of your chosen nuts. They’ll toast beautifully in the oven!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place your assembled cake into a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven. Bake for 60 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden brown and the edges begin to pull away from the pan. The scent in your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible.

Step 5: Cool and Flip

Let the cake cool completely in the dish—patience is key here to help the creamy center set and the top develop its signature crunch. When ready, gently run a knife along the edges then carefully flip the cake upside down onto a platter. The purple cream becomes the topping, with that glorious, crunchy crust on display.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

For a finishing touch, dollop on whipped cream if you’re feeling extra festive. Cut generous slices and savor every layer of creamy, crunchy, nutty, purple bliss.

How to Serve Ube Crunch Cake

Garnishes

This cake is already a stunner, but you can make it pop even more with some finishing touches! Try fluffy whipped cream, a dusting of purple yam powder, a few extra chopped nuts, or even some toasted coconut flakes for extra flair. Edible flowers or a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk are also happy additions.

Side Dishes

Pair your Ube Crunch Cake with a scoop of coconut or macapuno ice cream for a true tropical treat. For dramatic color contrast and a cleansing finish, serve alongside sliced fresh mango or pineapple.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off the dazzling layers by serving each slice upside down so the bright purple ube layer and decadent crust shine. For parties, cut the cake into bars and serve in tulip cupcake liners, or stack mini cubes with toothpicks for a playful bite-sized dessert platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ube Crunch Cake stores beautifully! Simply cover the baking dish tightly or transfer slices to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors meld and the crunch holds up for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this cake for later enjoyment. Wrap individual slices snugly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in an airtight freezer container. Freeze for up to two months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Want to restore some of that just-baked warmth and crunch? Briefly reheat slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 7-10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the topping nice and crisp!

FAQs

Can I use homemade ube halaya for Ube Crunch Cake?

Absolutely! Homemade ube halaya often has the freshest flavor and you can control the sweetness. Just make sure it’s thick and cool before using in this recipe.

What nuts work best for the crunchy topping?

Walnuts and macadamia nuts are classic for their creamy texture and sweetness, but pecans and hazelnuts add a lovely depth and crunch as well. Use what you love or whatever’s on hand!

Can I make Ube Crunch Cake gluten free?

Yes! Swap the yellow cake mix for your favorite gluten-free vanilla or yellow cake mix. Double-check all labels on your other ingredients as well to be safe.

Do I really need to flip the cake before serving?

Flipping ensures the creamiest ube layer becomes the star and the crunchy topping stays crisp. If you’re worried about sticking, use parchment to line your pan and let the cake cool completely before flipping.

Why is my ube filling not setting?

The most common culprit is underbaking or warm filling when flipped. Make sure you bake for the full hour and allow the cake to cool thoroughly before inverting.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about unveiling a slice of Ube Crunch Cake—watching those gorgeous colors and layers come together, then seeing everyone’s eyes go wide at first bite. Whether you’re brand new to ube or an old fan, you’ll love baking (and sharing!) this playful, luscious cake. Don’t wait for a special occasion—give this recipe a try and turn any day into a celebration!

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