These vibrant and fluffy ube cinnamon rolls are filled with a sweet, earthy ube flavor, swirled with cinnamon sugar, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:20 minutes
Chill Time:1 hour 45 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 30 minutes
Yield:12 rolls 1x
Category:Dessert, Breakfast
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Filipino-Inspired
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)
1/2 tsp salt
4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2–3 tbsp milk (for consistency)
Instructions
Make the Dough:
Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the Dough:
Add melted butter, eggs, ube halaya, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Assemble the Rolls:
Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create the filling.
Roll Out the Dough:
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches) on a floured surface.
Add the Filling:
Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border along one long edge.
Roll and Cut:
Starting from the long edge with filling, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut into 12 even pieces and arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Second Rise:
Cover the dish with a damp cloth and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
Bake the Rolls:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake:
Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
Prepare the Frosting:
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix. Add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Frost and Serve:
Frost the Rolls:
Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Ube extract can be added to the dough (1-2 tsp) for a more vibrant purple color.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Swap the filling with ube halaya for an extra ube-flavored twist!