Ube Crinkle Cookies

Name: Ube Crinkle Cookies: Creamy, Irresistibly Soft Delight!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: Wet Ingredients: 1 cup ube puree (cooked and mashed); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; Dry Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Coating: 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Posted on January 13, 2026

Dessert

Ube Crinkle Cookies: Creamy, Irresistibly Soft Delight!

Sensory-Rich Introduction with Immediate Craving

Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that bursts with the unique flavor of purple yam, also known as ube. The moment you take a bite, the creamy sweetness envelops your taste buds, while the light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delightful contrast to the vibrant purple hue. These Ube Crinkle Cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of Filipino culture and a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings where desserts take center stage. Whether it’s a festive occasion, a cozy afternoon tea, or simply a sweet indulgence after dinner, these cookies are sure to evoke joy and warmth, making every moment special.

Why You’ll Love This Ube Crinkle Cookies

Texture Contrast: The soft, chewy interior contrasts beautifully with the slight crispness of the powdered sugar coating, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
Flavor Balance: The nutty sweetness of ube is perfectly balanced with the sugar, making these cookies a harmonious blend of flavors that appeal to all palates.
Versatility: These cookies can be enjoyed on their own, paired with ice cream, or served at parties, making them a versatile addition to any dessert table.
Ease of Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies without stress.
Universal Appeal: The vibrant color and unique flavor of ube make these cookies a conversation starter, appealing to both those familiar with Filipino cuisine and those trying it for the first time.

Essential Tools & Preparation Strategy

Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients; opt for glass or stainless steel for durability.
Electric Mixer: A must-have for achieving a light and fluffy texture when creaming butter and sugar; a hand mixer works just as well.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results; consider using a kitchen scale for precision.
Baking Sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking; choose a non-stick or insulated baking sheet for best results.
Parchment Paper: Prevents cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup; silicone baking mats are a great reusable alternative.
Wire Rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly after baking; a cooling rack is essential for maintaining the right texture.
Cookie Scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking; a tablespoon scoop works perfectly for this recipe.
Refrigerator: Essential for chilling the dough, which helps prevent excessive spreading during baking.

Ingredients & Their Roles in This Ube Crinkle Cookies

Wet Ingredients

Ube Puree: Provides the signature flavor and vibrant color; can be substituted with sweet potato puree if necessary.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and moisture; for a dairy-free option, use vegan butter.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to the crinkle effect; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture; for a vegan version, substitute with flax eggs.

Dry Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the cookies; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option.
Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Baking Soda: Works in conjunction with baking powder for leavening; can be omitted if using self-rising flour.
Salt: Enhances the flavors; a pinch of sea salt can elevate the taste.

Coating

Powdered Sugar: Creates the signature crinkle effect and adds sweetness; cornstarch can be mixed in for a smoother texture.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Ube Crinkle Cookies

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Ube and Eggs: Incorporate the ube puree and eggs into the mixture, beating until well combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Shape Cookies: Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
Coat in Sugar: Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips for Flawless Results

Make-Ahead: The dough can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.
Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Equipment Recommendations: Invest in quality baking sheets and measuring tools for consistent results.
Customization Options: Experiment with adding chocolate chips, nuts, or coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

Avoid These Common Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies; mix until just combined.
Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping this step can result in cookies spreading too much; always chill for at least 30 minutes.
Using Too Much Flour: This can make cookies dry; measure flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method.
Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F for even baking.
Not Using Parchment Paper: This can cause cookies to stick; always line your baking sheet.
Underbaking: Cookies should be soft in the center when removed from the oven; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
Not Rolling in Powdered Sugar: This gives the crinkle effect; ensure each cookie is well-coated.

Creative Variations & Customizations

Vegan Ube Crinkle Cookies: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
Chocolate Ube Crinkle Cookies: Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey twist.
Nutty Ube Cookies: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Seasonal Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor during the holidays.
Ube Crinkle Sandwich Cookies: Fill two cookies with ube-flavored frosting for a delightful treat.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Ube Crinkle Cookies

Coconut Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the cookies perfectly for a tropical twist.
Hot Chocolate: A cozy pairing that enhances the sweetness of the cookies.
Almond Milk: The nutty flavors of almond milk balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Whipped Cream and Fresh Berries: Create a colorful dessert platter that’s visually appealing.
Filipino Desserts: Serve alongside other traditional treats for a cultural theme.
Light Fruit Salad: A refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.
Coffee: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Savory Filipino Meal: Serve as a delightful finish to a hearty meal.

Storage & Meal Prep Instructions

Fridge Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezer Storage: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Nutrition Facts & Health Insights

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	120
Sugar	10 grams
Sodium	50 milligrams
Fat	5 grams
Saturated Fat	3 grams
Unsaturated Fat	2 grams
Trans Fat	0 grams
Carbohydrates	18 grams
Fiber	0 grams
Protein	1 gram
Cholesterol	20 milligrams

Health Insights: Ube is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making these cookies a slightly healthier indulgence compared to traditional options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh ube instead of puree?
Yes, but ensure it is cooked and mashed thoroughly before using.
What can I substitute for eggs?
Flax eggs or applesauce can be used as a binding agent.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be set, and the centers should look slightly underbaked.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, they freeze well; store in an airtight container.
What if my dough is too sticky?
Chill the dough longer or add a little more flour until manageable.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Fold in chocolate chips for a delicious variation.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure the dough is chilled before baking.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Final Inspiration & Kitchen Confidence

Baking Ube Crinkle Cookies is not just about creating a delicious treat; it’s about embracing the joy of cooking and sharing with loved ones. As you pull your cookies from the oven, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant color and delightful aroma. Celebrate your baking achievements, no matter how small, and remember that every cookie is a step towards building your kitchen confidence. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic of baking unfold. Enjoy every bite of your Ube Crinkle Cookies!