A warm kitchen has a way of bringing back cherished memories, and for me, there’s nothing quite like the sweet aroma of cinnamon and ube wafting through the air. Recently, I found myself craving something special that would satisfy not only my taste buds but also reignite my love for baking. That’s when I decided to tackle Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch—a delightful twist on the classic favorite that combines the comforting spices of cinnamon with the vibrant, earthy flavors of ube.
Not only are these rolls a feast for the eyes with their stunning purple hues, but they’re also incredibly fluffy and soft, making them the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. What I love most is the versatility of this recipe; you can make it for a cozy family gathering, a brunch with friends, or just as a special morning treat for yourself. Trust me, once you dive into these gooey, cinnamon-y masterpieces topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for fast food breakfast!
Why love these Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls?
Unique Flavor Fusion: Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet ube and warm cinnamon, a flavor combination that’s sure to impress.
Impressive Yet Easy: With simple steps and ingredients, crafting these rolls feels like a breeze, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Mouthwatering Aroma: As they bake, your home will fill with a heavenly scent that creates an inviting atmosphere for family and friends.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a festive brunch gathering, these rolls are sure to shine.
Gooey Goodness: The creamy frosting beautifully complements the soft, fluffy texture, elevating your experience with every bite.
Make your baking routine special and check out my tips for the perfect homemade dough in this essential baking guide.
Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• ¾ cup milk – Warm milk helps activate the yeast, ensuring a fluffy texture.
• 1 large egg – Use a room temperature egg for a better rise in the rolls.
• 1 tsp ube extract – This adds a delightful ube flavor to your dough.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter – Softened butter enriches the dough’s flavor and softness.
• 3¼ cup all-purpose flour – Essential for structure; be sure to measure correctly for the best results.
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps with browning during baking.
• ¼ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1 package instant dry yeast – This is crucial for fluffy and soft ube cinnamon rolls.
For the Filling
• ⅓ cup ube halaya jam – Adds a rich and sweet ube flavor to the rolls.
• ¼ cup brown sugar – For a deeper sweetness and slight caramel flavor.
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon – The warm spice that infuses the rolls with cozy flavors.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter – Helps bind the filling together and adds creaminess.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• ⅓ cup heavy cream – This creates a rich and luscious frosting.
• ½ cup cream cheese – Adds tanginess and creaminess to the frosting for a perfect finish.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter – Ensures the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.
• ⅛ tsp salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
• ⅔ cup confectioners’ sugar – For sweetness and the ideal fluffy texture of the frosting.
Dive into the delightful process of making these fluffy and soft ube cinnamon rolls from scratch, and watch as they transform your baking experience!
How to Make Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls
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Warm the Milk: Begin by warming ¾ cup of milk and adding it to your stand mixer bowl. Sprinkle the 1 package of instant dry yeast on top, stir gently, and let it rest for about 5 minutes until frothy.
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Mix Ingredients: Add 1 room temperature egg, 6 tbsp of softened unsalted butter, and ⅓ cup of granulated sugar to the yeast mixture. Blend everything together using the flat beater paddle until thoroughly combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add ¼ tsp salt and 3¼ cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture. Keep mixing with the beater paddle for about 1 minute until it forms a soft dough.
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Knead the Dough: Scrape the dough off the attachment and switch to the dough hook. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it feels slightly sticky and elastic to the touch.
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Proof the Dough: Lightly spray oil in a large bowl and transfer the dough into it. Cover the bowl and let the dough proof in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
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Make the Filling: In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 tbsp of softened butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, 1 tbsp of ground cinnamon, and ⅓ cup of ube halaya jam. Mix until you have a smooth filling.
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Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out. Gently punch out the air, then roll the dough into a 15×12″ rectangle using a floured rolling pin.
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Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the ube cinnamon filling over the entire surface of the dough rectangle using a spatula. Make sure to reach all corners for maximum flavor!
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Form the Log: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal ensuring all that gooey goodness stays inside.
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Cut the Rolls: Mark the log into equal thirds, then divide those portions into 9 equal rolls. Using a sharp serrated knife or dental floss, carefully cut the rolls.
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Arrange and Rise: Grease a 9-inch pan and place the rolls in a 3×3 arrangement. Cover them and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
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Add the Cream: Once they’ve risen, pour ⅓ cup of heavy cream over the rolls, allowing it to soak in and add delicious moisture.
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Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 21-23 minutes until they’re lightly golden brown and the kitchen smells heavenly.
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Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, whip together 2 tbsp of softened butter and ½ cup of cream cheese until well mixed and fluffy.
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Finish the Frosting: Add ½ tsp of vanilla extract, ⅛ tsp of salt, and ⅔ cup of confectioners’ sugar. Blend until the frosting reaches a creamy consistency.
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Frost and Enjoy: Once the rolls are completely cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Optional: Serve these rolls warm for an extra touch of comfort.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Ube Cinnamon Rolls for a delightful twist on the classic recipe!
- Dairy-Free: Swap the milk and butter for non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil for a plant-based option.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend, ensuring a similar texture without the gluten. Remember, the rolls may need slight adjustments in liquid!
- Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the ube filling for added crunch and flavor. You’ll enjoy a delightful textural contrast in every bite!
- Extra Sweetness: Drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the top of the rolls before baking for a touch of natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with ube.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or ginger into your cinnamon-sugar filling for a warm, spicy twist that’ll surprise your palate.
- Swirl Variations: Experiment by adding chocolate chips or cinnamon sugar to the filling for that extra indulgent flavor combo!
- Fruity Twist: Mix in some fresh or dried fruits, like blueberries or raisins, into the dough or filling for a fruity surprise!
- Creamy Fill: Swap out ube halaya jam for a layer of Nutella or your favorite jam for a sweetly rich filling that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Let your imagination run wild with these variations and find your new favorite version of Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls!
What to Serve with Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls?
These vibrant, fluffy delights are perfect for creating a delightful brunch experience or a cozy breakfast at home.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of colorful fruits balances the sweetness of the rolls while adding a refreshing crunch.
- Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, this adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the cinnamon rolls. It’s a joy for the senses.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans offer a crisp texture and a pop of color, providing a perfect contrast to the sweet rolls.
- Chai Tea: Serve warm chai with its aromatic spices that complement the flavors of cinnamon and ube, making every sip delightful.
- Iced Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of iced coffee combines beautifully with the softness of the rolls, perfect for a cozy brunch vibe.
- Maple Bacon: The savory, crispy goodness of bacon against the sweet rolls offers an irresistible sweet and salty harmony.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of melting ice cream on top creates a warm-cold contrast, elevating the dessert experience to new heights.
- Sparkling Lemonade: The fizzy, citrusy refreshment cleanses the palate and enhances the sweetness of your hearty cinnamon rolls.
- Nutty Granola Bars: A crunchy granola bar can add a delightful crunch and is perfect for dipping in your coffee or tea while enjoying rolls.
Expert Tips for Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls
• Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements of flour and sugar are essential for achieving the perfect fluffy and soft ube cinnamon rolls, so use a kitchen scale when possible.
• Proper Proofing: Ensure the dough rises in a warm place for the correct amount of time; under-proofing can lead to dense rolls that don’t fluff up as they should.
• Gentle Kneading: Knead your dough just until it becomes slightly sticky but smooth; over-kneading can lead to tough rolls, losing that desired softness.
• Utilize Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your instant dry yeast; using fresh yeast guarantees that your dough rises nicely, leading to fluffy rolls.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Take your egg and butter out ahead of time; using room temperature ingredients helps create a smooth dough, enhancing the rolls’ texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. After you knead the dough, let it proof for 30 minutes, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The next day, simply roll out the dough, spread the filling, cut the rolls, and arrange them in the pan. Let them rise for 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. This way, you’ll have warm, freshly baked rolls ready to enjoy, just as delicious as if they were made on the same day!
Storage Tips for Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, place the rolls in the fridge for up to 5 days in a sealed container. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled rolls in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To revive the rolls, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a soft, freshly-baked taste. Enjoy your fluffy and soft ube cinnamon rolls any time!
Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ube for the recipe?
Selecting ripe ube is crucial for enhancing the flavor in your ube cinnamon rolls. Look for ube that is firm with a rich purple color and minimal blemishes. Avoid tubers with dark spots or soft areas, as these may indicate spoilage. If you can, give them a gentle squeeze; they should feel solid.
What is the best way to store baked ube cinnamon rolls?
To keep your fluffy and soft ube cinnamon rolls fresh, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, ensuring they are well-sealed. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven for the best taste!
Can I freeze these ube cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze the rolls, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warm and fluffy.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, a few troubleshooting tips can help! First, check the freshness of your yeast; expired yeast won’t activate properly. Make sure your warm milk isn’t too hot, as this can kill the yeast. Lastly, ensure you’re letting it rise in a warm, draft-free environment. If they still don’t puff up, try placing the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) or a sunny spot to encourage rising.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you have dietary allergies, it’s important to note that this recipe contains eggs, dairy (including butter and cream cheese), wheat (flour), and sugar. For a dairy-free alternative, use plant-based butter and cream cheese substitutes. To cater to gluten allergies, consider using a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the liquid as necessary until the right dough consistency is achieved.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading, place the dough in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, bring the dough to room temperature before proceeding with the rising and baking steps. This way, your fluffy and soft ube cinnamon rolls will be fresh and warm when served!
Fluffy and Soft Ube Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm ¾ cup of milk and sprinkle 1 package of instant dry yeast on top, let rest 5 minutes.
- Add 1 large egg, 6 tbsp of unsalted butter, and ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, then mix until combined.
- Gradually add ¼ tsp salt and 3¼ cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until slightly sticky and elastic.
- Let the dough proof in a warm place for 30 minutes until doubled in size.
- Combine 1 tbsp of softened butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, 1 tbsp of ground cinnamon, and ⅓ cup of ube halaya jam to make the filling.
- Roll the dough into a 15×12" rectangle.
- Spread filling over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and seal the edges.
- Cut the log into 9 equal rolls.
- Place rolls in a greased 9-inch pan and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Pour ⅓ cup of heavy cream over the rolls and bake at 350°F for 21-23 minutes.
- Mix together 2 tbsp of softened butter, ½ cup of cream cheese, then add vanilla, salt, and confectioners' sugar.
- Spread frosting over cooled rolls.
- Serve warm for extra comfort.