Name: Decadent Ube Flan Cake Recipe for Sweet Celebrations
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Ube Halaya (A smooth purple yam jam); 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour (Avoid substitutions unless using gluten-free flour); 1 cup Sugar (Adjust based on your preference for sweetness); 1 cup Butter (Softened butter helps achieve a creamy batter); ½ cup Milk (Any milk will work, including non-dairy options); 4 large Eggs (At room temperature for best results); 1 ½ teaspoons Baking Powder (Check for freshness); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Can be swapped with almond extract); 1 cup Caramel Sauce (Store-bought or homemade)

As the aroma of baking wafts through my kitchen, I’m reminded of sunny days spent sharing desserts with family and friends. One standout treat that always brings back those joyful memories is the Ube Flan Cake. This delightful Filipino dessert is not just a feast for the eyes with its stunning purple hue; it also satisfies every sweet tooth. Incorporating rich ube and creamy flan, this Ube Flan Cake Recipe marries two beloved flavors, creating a unique experience that’s perfect for celebrations or simply a cozy weeknight indulgence. What I love most is its effortless preparation and the way it pairs well with gatherings, leaving everyone asking for seconds. Ready to impress your loved ones? Let’s journey together into the world of this delightful cake!

Why Is Ube Flan Cake So Irresistible?

Unique Fusion: This dessert brings together two Filipino classics—ube and flan—creating a flavor-packed experience that surprises and delights.
Stunning Presentation: With its vibrant purple color and glossy caramel layer, it’s sure to be the centerpiece of any gathering.
Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it accessible for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs, ensuring you can whip it up without stress.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that sparks joy in every slice. For more wonderful desserts, check out my Chai Cake Moist or the delightful Spice Gooey Cake.
Chilled Perfection: Serving it chilled enhances the flavors, making it an exceptional treat on warm days. Don’t forget to save some for later—this cake stays tasty for days!

Ube Flan Cake Recipe Ingredients

For the Cake

Ube Halaya – A smooth purple yam jam that gives the cake its vibrant color and earthy sweetness; making homemade ube can add a personal touch!
All-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure; avoid substitutions unless using gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
Sugar – Essential for sweetness and texture; feel free to adjust based on your preference for sweetness.
Butter – Adds richness and moisture; softened butter helps achieve a creamy batter.
Milk – Keeps the cake moist and contributes to a tender crumb; any milk will work, including non-dairy options.
Eggs – Binds ingredients together and provides structure; make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to give the cake its fluffiness; always check for freshness!
Vanilla Extract – Enhances depth of flavor; can be swapped with almond extract for a different twist.

For the Caramel Layer

Caramel Sauce – Creates a glossy and sweet layer at the bottom; you can use store-bought or whip up a homemade version.

This Ube Flan Cake Recipe captures the essence of Filipino desserts while offering a delightful, creamy experience. Get ready to create a masterpiece that will impress your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Flan Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your Ube Flan Cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While it warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare your baking equipment, including a 9-inch round cake pan, which you’ll need to line or grease well to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter with 1 cup of sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This creamy base is key for your cake’s texture, so take your time to achieve a pale, airy consistency.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Next, crack in 4 eggs, adding them one at a time. Mix well after each addition, allowing the eggs to fully blend into the batter. You’ll know you’re ready for the next step when your batter appears smooth and combined without any lumps. Set the bowl aside for now as we prepare the ube flavor.

Step 4: Mix in Ube and Vanilla
Stir in 1 cup of smooth ube halaya and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into your egg and butter mixture. Use a spatula for this step to ensure everything is well incorporated, bringing out that signature purple hue. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling delightful flavors are on the way.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder. This mixture adds structure and lift to your Ube Flan Cake. Be sure to mix until well blended to distribute the baking powder evenly throughout the flour, enhancing the cake’s fluffiness.

Step 6: Alternate Mixing the Batter
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with ½ cup of milk. Stir gently until just combined — overmixing can lead to a dense cake. You want to see a thick, smooth batter, so mix until you no longer see dry flour but the batter still remains airy.

Step 7: Prepare the Caramel Layer
Take your prepared cake pan and pour in 1 cup of caramel sauce, spreading it evenly over the bottom. This luscious layer will create a beautiful topping once the cake is inverted. Make sure the caramel is at room temperature so it doesn’t harden prematurely or affect the batter.

Step 8: Pour the Batter
Next, gently pour the ube batter over the caramel layer in the cake pan. Spread the batter evenly using a spatula to ensure a uniform texture throughout. This layer is where the magic happens, as the cake will bake to perfection atop that gorgeous caramel.

Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Your kitchen will soon smell heavenly!

Step 10: Cool and Invert the Cake
Once baked, remove the Ube Flan Cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time helps set the cake, making it easier to invert. After cooling, carefully run a knife around the edges, place a serving plate on top, and quickly flip it over to reveal the caramel topping.

Step 11: Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor, place your inverted Ube Flan Cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your cake’s overall taste. Once chilled, slice and serve your delightful dessert to family and friends!

Make Ahead Options

These Ube Flan Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the caramel layer and the ube batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the caramel, make sure it is completely cool before covering to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect its texture. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the layers and pour the ube batter over the caramel before following the baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious dessert with minimal effort, leaving you more time to focus on gathering with family and friends!

Expert Tips for Ube Flan Cake

Smooth Ube Is Key: Ensure your ube halaya is smooth for a velvety texture. If it’s lumpy, blend it until creamy for optimal results.
Check Your Baking Powder: Fresh baking powder is crucial for a fluffy cake. Test it by dropping a bit into water; if it bubbles, it’s still good!
Avoid Overmixing: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense Ube Flan Cake.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before inverting it. This helps prevent breakage and ensures a smooth release.
Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This enhances the flavors and makes the texture even more delightful.
Perfect Presentation: When inverting, ensure your serving plate is larger than the cake pan. This provides ample room for the caramel layer to shine beautifully!

Ube Flan Cake Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this Ube Flan Cake to suit your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Replace milk with almond or coconut milk and use dairy-free butter. This keeps the richness while accommodating dietary needs.
Sweet Potato Twist: Swap out ube halaya for sweet potato puree for a slightly different flavor profile that’s equally delicious.
Chocolate Layer: Stir in cocoa powder or layers of chocolate ganache between the ube and flan for a decadent twist that adds a rich chocolate flavor.
Coconut Cream: Incorporate coconut cream into the batter or drizzle on top for a tropical flair reminiscent of other beloved Filipino desserts.
Spiced Flavors: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, comforting spices that nicely complement the ube flavor.
Tropical Fruit Topping: Consider topping the cake with fresh mango or pineapple slices for a burst of color and added sweetness.
Milk Tea Infusion: Add brewed and cooled milk tea to the batter for a subtle tea flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake. For more delightful combinations, check out my Banana Matcha Smoothie Recipe.

How to Store and Freeze Ube Flan Cake

Fridge: Keep your Ube Flan Cake tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays moist and fresh for each delightful serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy your Ube Flan Cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This can enhance the flavors and make the caramel layer extra luscious.

Serving Tips: Enjoy the cake chilled for a refreshing treat, or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to bloom!

What to Serve with Ube Flan Cake

Pair the rich, creamy flavors of this cake with delightful sides and beverages for a memorable meal.

Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad: A zesty mix of mangoes, pineapples, and papayas brightens the palate and adds a refreshing touch to every bite.
Coconut Sticky Rice: Creamy and sweet, this classic Filipino side pairs beautifully with the cake, enhancing its tropical flavor.
Coffee: A rich, aromatic brew balances the sweetness of the cake and creates a cozy café experience at home.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream soothes the richness of the flan, making each bite a dessert lover’s dream.
Lemonade: This refreshing drink adds a tangy contrast that complements dessert’s sweetness—ideal for warm gatherings!
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The sweet and slightly tangy strawberries drizzled in chocolate create a sophisticated and delightful contrast.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy touch, enhancing the cake’s creamy layers while offering a refined finish.
Fresh Mint Tea: The herbaceous notes of mint tea cleanse the palate and add a fresh twist to complement the luxurious dessert.

Embrace the flavors and create a delightful dining experience!

Ube Flan Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of ube should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use smooth ube halaya. If you can’t find it, you can make your own by steaming purple yam until tender, then mashing it into a smooth paste. This ingredient is crucial for getting that rich flavor and vibrant color.

How should I store Ube Flan Cake?
After enjoying your Ube Flan Cake, store any leftovers tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the cake moist and delicious for each serving.

Can I freeze Ube Flan Cake?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What if my cake is too dense?
If you find your Ube Flan Cake is denser than expected, it may be due to overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Be gentle and mix just until combined. Also, check that your baking powder is fresh, as this helps with leavening and fluffy texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for Ube Flan Cake?
This Ube Flan Cake is vegetarian-friendly, but if you have dietary restrictions, like egg allergies, you might try substituting eggs with a mixture of flaxseed and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) for a vegan option. Just be aware that the texture might slightly change.