Ube Cinnamon Rolls: Sweet, Fluffy & Purple Swirl Treat!

Ube Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are a feast for the eyes, promising a delightful and enchanting twist on a beloved classic. As I embarked on my culinary journey to perfect this recipe, I was continuously enchanted by the vibrant allure and the comforting aroma that filled my kitchen, truly making these rolls stand out. Originating from the Philippines, ube, or purple yam, has long been a cherished staple in Filipino desserts, celebrated for its unique earthy sweetness and striking violet hue. When combined with the comforting warmth and familiarity of traditional cinnamon rolls, it transforms a familiar favorite into something truly extraordinary and unforgettable.

Imagine a fluffy, tender dough swirled with a rich, aromatic spiced filling, all culminating in a mesmerizing purple swirl that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of the sweet, subtle vanilla-like notes of ube perfectly complementing the aromatic warmth of cinnamon, all generously topped with a luscious, creamy glaze that melts in your mouth. It’s this irresistible combination of unique flavor, vibrant color, and comforting familiarity that makes Ube Cinnamon Rolls so incredibly popular and truly special. I invite you to discover the magic behind these beautiful rolls and create a memorable baking experience right in your own home.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Ube Dough:

• 1 cup (240ml) warm whole milk: Aim for approximately 105-115°F (40-46°C). This specific temperature range is crucial for properly activating our yeast, ensuring a fluffy and tender dough for our Ube Cinnamon Rolls.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh! An active yeast is the cornerstone of any great risen bread, and it’s no different for these vibrant rolls.
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar: This provides the initial food source for our yeast, helping it to bloom, and adds a subtle sweetness to the dough itself, complementing the ube flavor beautifully.
• 1 large egg: Ideally at room temperature. A room temperature egg incorporates more smoothly into the dough, leading to a more homogenous and tender crumb structure.
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter: Melted and then cooled slightly. We want it warm enough to be liquid but not hot enough to scramble the egg or harm the yeast. Butter adds richness and contributes to the soft texture.
• ½ cup (120g) ube halaya (purple yam jam): This is truly the star of our Ube Cinnamon Rolls! It provides that signature earthy sweetness, the gorgeous natural purple hue, and a unique moistness to the dough. Ensure it’s smooth and well-incorporated for the best results.
• 3 ½ to 4 cups (420-480g) all-purpose flour: Divided, with extra on hand for dusting. We’ll be adding this gradually, adjusting as needed, to achieve the perfect pliable dough consistency. The exact amount can vary based on humidity and how wet your ube halaya is.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Don’t ever skip the salt in baked goods! It balances the sweetness, enhances all the complex flavors in our Ube Cinnamon Rolls, and helps to control yeast activity.

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature. This is absolutely essential for creating a smooth, spreadable filling that adheres beautifully to the dough without tearing it.
• 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar: Light brown sugar brings a wonderful molasses note and a deeper, caramel-like sweetness compared to granulated sugar, making our filling incredibly flavorful and moist.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: A generous amount for that classic, comforting, and aromatic cinnamon roll experience. It’s what gives our Ube Cinnamon Rolls their iconic warmth.
• Pinch of salt: A tiny secret ingredient! Just a pinch helps to intensify the flavor of both the cinnamon and the brown sugar, making the filling truly irresistible.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese: Softened to room temperature. Full-fat cream cheese is highly recommended for the richest, creamiest, and most luscious frosting that perfectly complements the Ube Cinnamon Rolls.
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter: Also softened to room temperature. Like the cream cheese, proper temperature ensures a perfectly smooth, lump-free frosting.
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar): Sifted, please! Sifting prevents lumps and guarantees a velvety-smooth, ethereal frosting texture.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic and essential flavoring that rounds out the tang of the cream cheese and the sweetness of the sugar.
• 1-2 tablespoons whole milk or cream: As needed, for thinning the frosting to your desired consistency. Whether you prefer a thick, spreadable frosting or a lighter drizzle, this allows for customization.

Instructions:

Preparing the Ube Dough for Our Ube Cinnamon Rolls

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk (and by warm, I mean like a baby’s bath – not too hot to kill our precious yeast, and not too cold to keep it dormant! Aim for that sweet spot of 105-115°F or 40-46°C), ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and the active dry yeast. Give it a gentle stir. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes. You’ll know your yeast is happy and active when it becomes wonderfully foamy and bubbly on top, almost like a tiny, excited science experiment coming to life. If it doesn’t foam, don’t fret, but it does mean your yeast might be old or your milk wasn’t quite the right temperature, and you’ll need to start again with fresh yeast and properly warmed milk. This activation step is absolutely vital for a light, airy, and ultimately successful batch of Ube Cinnamon Rolls, so don’t skip it or rush it!
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Once your yeast is wonderfully active and proofed, it’s time to introduce more flavor and richness! Add the room temperature egg, the slightly cooled melted butter, and the beautiful ube halaya to the yeast mixture. Whisk everything together thoroughly until it’s well combined and you see that lovely purple color beginning to infuse throughout the liquid. The ube halaya should be smooth; if it’s a bit stiff or lumpy, you can gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds to make it more pliable before adding it to the mixture. This ensures even distribution of that gorgeous color and distinct ube flavor throughout your dough, which is key for eye-catching Ube Cinnamon Rolls.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add 3 ½ cups of the all-purpose flour along with the salt to the wet mixture. If you’re using a stand mixer (which I highly recommend for ease!), attach the dough hook. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms, and most of the flour is incorporated. If you’re mixing by hand, use a sturdy wooden spoon or your clean hands to bring the mixture together. At this point, the dough will look a bit rough, sticky, and uneven, which is perfectly normal and expected for an enriched dough like this.
4. Knead the Dough to Perfection: Now for the fun part: kneading! Increase the mixer speed to medium-low (or turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface if kneading by hand) and knead for a solid 8-10 minutes. This kneading process is where the magic happens; it develops the gluten, which is essential for giving our Ube Cinnamon Rolls their structure, chewiness, and that characteristic tender texture. As you knead, the dough will transform from shaggy to smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. It should gracefully pull away from the sides of the bowl. If the dough feels excessively sticky, add the remaining ½ cup of flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. However, resist the urge to add too much flour! A slightly sticky dough will always result in a more tender, moist, and delicious roll. You should be left with a vibrant purple, smooth, supple, and elastic dough that springs back when gently poked.
5. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation): Lightly grease a large clean bowl with a neutral oil (like vegetable or canola). Place your beautifully kneaded ube dough into the bowl, turning it once to coat the entire surface with oil. This prevents it from drying out and forming a crust during the rise. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean, damp kitchen towel. Set it in a warm, draft-free place to rise for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has unmistakably doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off, with just the light on) or a sunny spot on your counter works wonderfully. This first rise is absolutely critical for developing deep flavor, creating those wonderful airy pockets, and ensuring a light, pillowy texture in your finished Ube Cinnamon Rolls. Patience is truly key at this stage!

Making the Irresistible Cinnamon Filling

6. Prepare the Filling: While your gorgeous ube dough is happily rising and developing flavor, it’s the perfect opportunity to prepare our delectable cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, the rich packed light brown sugar, the aromatic ground cinnamon, and that little secret pinch of salt.
7. Mix to Combine: Using a fork, a sturdy spoon, or even a rubber spatula, vigorously mix these ingredients together until they form a smooth, uniform, and easily spreadable paste. It should have the consistency reminiscent of thick peanut butter or a soft cookie dough. Make sure there are absolutely no lumps of butter or undissolved sugar remaining, as this will ensure even distribution of flavor. The brown sugar adds a lovely depth of flavor and moisture that granulated sugar alone cannot provide, creating that iconic gooey cinnamon roll center. Set this filling aside at room temperature; we want it to remain soft and easily spreadable when your dough is ready.

Shaping and Proofing the Ube Cinnamon Rolls

8. Prepare Your Work Surface: Once the ube dough has gloriously doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the trapped air. This step helps redistribute the yeast, creates a finer crumb structure, and makes the dough much easier to handle. Lightly flour a clean, spacious work surface. Don’t be shy with a little flour, but don’t overdo it either!
9. Roll Out the Dough: Transfer the punched-down ube dough onto your floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large, even rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches (30×45 cm). The goal here is an even thickness, about ¼-inch thick, across the entire rectangle. Take your time to try and keep your edges as straight as possible, as this will help you achieve beautifully uniformly shaped rolls in the end. The vibrant purple color of the dough at this stage, so smooth and elastic, is truly mesmerizing and promises a spectacular visual treat!
10. Spread the Filling Evenly: Now, evenly spread your perfectly prepared cinnamon filling over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough. Make sure to go right up to three of the edges, but leave about a ½-inch border along one of the longer edges. This unfilled border will act as your sealing edge, helping to hold the roll together once it’s rolled up. Ensure the filling is spread right to the edges (except the border) to guarantee every single bite of your Ube Cinnamon Roll is packed with that glorious cinnamon-sugar goodness.
11. Roll Up the Dough Tightly: Starting from the long edge opposite the ½-inch border, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a snug log. This is a critical step for creating those gorgeous, well-defined swirls in your finished Ube Cinnamon Rolls. The tighter you roll it, the more beautiful and perfect your swirls will be. Take your time, tucking the dough in as you go to avoid any air gaps within the roll. Once you reach the end, firmly pinch the seam to seal it closed. This sealed seam will naturally become the bottom of your rolls.
12. Slice the Rolls: Using a sharp, un-serrated knife (a serrated knife can tear the dough), a bench scraper, or even unflavored dental floss (my personal favorite for incredibly clean cuts!), slice the log into 12 equal pieces, each about 1 to 1 ½ inches thick. If using dental floss, slide it underneath the log to your desired cutting point, cross the ends over the top, and pull to cut cleanly through the dough. This method prevents squishing the dough and ensures you get beautifully round, distinct Ube Cinnamon Rolls.
13. Arrange for Second Rise: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. Carefully arrange the sliced ube cinnamon rolls in the prepared pan, leaving a little space between each one. Don’t worry if they look a bit small at this point; they will expand quite a bit during the second rise and baking, snuggling together to form a beautiful pull-apart tray.
14. Second Rise (Proofing): Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Return the pan to a warm, draft-free place for another 30-45 minutes, or until the rolls have visibly puffed up, look noticeably fuller and softer, and are gently touching each other. They won’t quite double in size again, but their volume should significantly increase. This second rise, also known as “proofing,” is absolutely essential for achieving a light, unbelievably tender, and airy texture in your baked Ube Cinnamon Rolls. It’s worth the wait!

Baking the Ube Cinnamon Rolls

15. Preheat Oven: While your beautiful Ube Cinnamon Rolls are completing their final proof, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure to give your oven enough time to come to temperature and stabilize for even baking.
16. Bake the Rolls: Once the oven is preheated and your rolls have puffed up beautifully, gently remove the plastic wrap or towel from the pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are a lovely golden brown and the rolls are cooked through. The exact baking time can vary depending on your specific oven, so keep a close eye on them towards the end. You’ll notice the ube dough becoming even more vibrant with a subtle golden hue on the surface, while the cinnamon-sugar filling will be bubbling enticingly around the edges. To confirm doneness, you can gently lift one roll with a spatula to see if the bottom is also golden.
17. Cool Slightly: Once baked to perfection, remove the pan of Ube Cinnamon Rolls from the oven. Resist the urge to dive in immediately! Let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This brief cooling period helps the rolls to set up structurally, preventing them from falling apart when you go to frost them. Plus, it’s always best to frost them while they’re still warm for that delightful, slightly melty frosting experience!

Preparing the Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting

18. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: While the Ube Cinnamon Rolls are cooling down just a bit, let’s whip up that irresistible cream cheese frosting! In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer (either a handheld mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment), beat the softened cream cheese and the softened butter together on medium speed until the mixture is incredibly smooth and light, about 2-3 minutes. It’s absolutely critical that both ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a lump-free, silky-smooth frosting texture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly combined.
19. Add Remaining Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the creamed mixture, a little at a time, beating on low speed until it is fully incorporated. Adding it slowly prevents a sugary cloud from engulfing your kitchen! Once all the sugar is in, add the pure vanilla extract.
20. Adjust Consistency to Perfection: Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for another 1-2 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly smooth. If the frosting seems too thick for your preference, add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time, beating after each addition, until you reach your desired drizzly or luxuriously spreadable consistency. If by chance it becomes too thin, you can add a little more sifted powdered sugar. We’re aiming for a wonderfully luxurious, easily spreadable frosting that melts perfectly onto our warm Ube Cinnamon Rolls, creating a magical combination of flavors and textures.

Assembling and Serving Your Ube Cinnamon Rolls

21. Frost the Ube Cinnamon Rolls: Now for the grand finale! Generously spread the prepared cream cheese frosting over the still-warm ube cinnamon rolls in the pan. The warmth of the rolls will work its magic, causing the frosting to slightly melt and gloriously seep into all the tender nooks and crannies of the rolls, creating an incredibly moist, flavorful, and utterly decadent treat. You can spread it thickly with an offset spatula for full coverage or drizzle it artfully if you prefer a lighter touch.
22. Serve and Enjoy Immediately: Serve your magnificent Ube Cinnamon Rolls warm for the absolute ultimate experience. They are truly divine straight from the oven, with that rich frosting just melting into the tender, vibrantly purple dough, mingling with the sweet cinnamon swirl. These rolls are perfect for an extra-special breakfast, a decadent brunch, or a memorable dessert. Share them with loved ones or savor them all to yourself – I won’t tell!
23. Storage: If you miraculously find yourself with any leftovers (a rare occurrence, I assure you!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To bring back that glorious fresh-baked warmth and softness, gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. They taste almost as good as fresh!

Conclusion:

So there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed together through the delightful process of creating something truly special, something that transcends the ordinary and brings a burst of unexpected joy to your kitchen. I’ve poured my heart into crafting this recipe, and I genuinely believe that these aren’t just any baked goods; they are an experience waiting to happen. If you’ve been following along, you already know we’re talking about the incredible flavor profile that sets these apart.

Why These Ube Cinnamon Rolls Are a Game-Changer:

From the moment that first hint of ube, with its gentle, sweet, and slightly vanilla-like aroma, mingles with the warm, spicy embrace of cinnamon as they bake, your senses will be utterly captivated. The vibrant purple hue isn’t just for show; it promises a depth of flavor that is both exotic and comforting. We’ve worked tirelessly to ensure the dough is impossibly soft and fluffy, achieving that perfect pillowy texture that melts in your mouth with every bite. The sweet, creamy ube filling swirled with the classic cinnamon sugar, all enrobed in a luscious, tangy cream cheese glaze… honestly, what’s not to love? This recipe is a must-try because it takes a beloved classic and infuses it with an exciting, unforgettable twist, making it a conversation starter at any gathering. It’s comforting yet adventurous, familiar yet fresh, and utterly delicious from the first whiff to the last crumb. I promise you, once you try these, your breakfast or dessert routine will never be the same. The balance of sweetness and spice, the delightful chewiness of the roll, and the smooth, rich glaze create a symphony of textures and tastes that is truly unparalleled. You’ll find yourself craving the unique magic of these Ube Cinnamon Rolls long after the last one has disappeared. It’s an indulgence that feels both familiar and wonderfully new, a perfect blend of tradition and innovation that will impress everyone fortunate enough to try them.

My Favorite Ways to Enjoy and Experiment:

Now, let’s talk about how to savor these beauties. Of course, they are absolutely divine straight out of the oven, still warm and gooey, with that glaze just beginning to melt into every crevice. That’s my go-to! But don’t stop there. For a truly indulgent breakfast or brunch, I love serving them with a strong cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. The slight bitterness of the coffee beautifully complements the sweetness of the rolls, creating a balanced and satisfying experience. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut or a handful of chopped pecans over the top of the glaze adds an extra layer of texture and flavor, elevating them even further. For a more dessert-like experience, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream – the contrast of warm and cold is simply heavenly and makes for a truly memorable treat. And here’s a fun idea for leftovers (if you manage to have any!): day-old rolls can be transformed into an incredible bread pudding. Just tear them into pieces, soak them in a rich custard mix, and bake until golden and bubbly. Or, slice them thick and pan-fry them lightly in butter for a caramelized “French toast” version of Ube Cinnamon Rolls – trust me, it’s a revelation! You could also experiment with the glaze itself: a touch of lemon zest for a brighter, zingy note, or a hint of espresso powder for a mocha twist. The possibilities are truly endless, limited only by your imagination and what delights your palate most. Each variation offers a new dimension to this already fantastic recipe.

Your Turn to Bake and Share!

So, what are you waiting for? I’ve given you all the tools and tips you need to create these spectacular treats in your own kitchen. Don’t be intimidated by the idea of baking with yeast or working with a unique ingredient like ube; I’ve broken down each step to be as straightforward and enjoyable as possible. This recipe is designed to be accessible, allowing you to achieve bakery-quality results right at home, even if you’re new to baking. I truly encourage you to set aside some time this week, gather your ingredients, and embark on this delicious baking adventure. There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from pulling a tray of perfectly golden, fragrant rolls from the oven, filling your home with an aroma that promises pure delight, and I want you to experience that joy firsthand. And once you’ve tasted the magic, I would absolutely love to hear all about your experience! Please, please, please share your creations with me. Show off your beautiful rolls, tell me about your favorite serving suggestions, or how you adapted the recipe to make it uniquely your own. Your feedback and your baking triumphs inspire me so much. Let’s spread the love for these amazing Ube Cinnamon Rolls far and wide. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to see what you create!

Ube Cinnamon Rolls: Sweet, Fluffy & Purple Swirl Treat!

Ube Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are a feast for the eyes, promising a delightful and enchanting twist on a beloved classic. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of the sweet, subtle vanilla-like notes of ube perfectly complementing the aromatic warmth of cinnamon, all generously topped with a luscious, creamy glaze that melts in your mouth. Nothing beats these rolls with a strong cup of coffee. The coffee’s bitterness plays so nicely with the sweet rolls. They’re perfect for a weekend brunch or that afternoon merienda break we all need sometimes.

Prep Time
15 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
55 Minutes

Servings
12 rolls

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240ml) warm whole milk (105-115°F)
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temp
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted & cooled
• ½ cup (120g) ube halaya (purple yam jam)
• 3 ½ to 4 cups (420-480g) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
• 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar (for filling)
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon (for filling)
• Pinch of salt (for filling)
• 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted (for frosting)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 1-2 tbsp whole milk or cream (for frosting)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk (105-115°F), ¼ cup granulated sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Step 2
   Make Dough: Add room temperature egg, slightly cooled melted butter, and ube halaya to the yeast mixture; whisk. Gradually add 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon salt. Knead with a dough hook or by hand for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding more flour (up to ½ cup) if too sticky. The dough should be slightly tacky.
3. Step 3
   First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl, place dough, turn to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, until doubled in size.
4. Step 4
   Prepare Filling: While dough rises, combine softened unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Mix vigorously until a smooth, uniform, and easily spreadable paste forms.
5. Step 5
   Roll & Fill: Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a large, even 12×18 inch rectangle (about ¼-inch thick) on a lightly floured surface. Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the entire dough surface, leaving about a ½-inch border along one of the longer edges.
6. Step 6
   Shape Rolls: Starting from the long edge opposite the unfilled border, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a snug log. Pinch the seam firmly to seal it closed. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces, each about 1 to 1 ½ inches thick, using a sharp knife or dental floss.
7. Step 7
   Second Rise: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Arrange the sliced rolls in the pan, leaving a little space between each. Cover loosely and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for another 30-45 minutes, or until the rolls have visibly puffed up and are gently touching each other.
8. Step 8
   Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently remove cover from the pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are a lovely golden brown and the rolls are cooked through. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
9. Step 9
   Make Frosting: While rolls cool, in a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and softened butter with an electric mixer until incredibly smooth and light (2-3 minutes). Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, then vanilla extract, beating until light, fluffy, and smooth. Add 1-2 tablespoons whole milk or cream, as needed, to reach desired consistency.
10. Step 10
    Frost & Serve: Generously spread the prepared cream cheese frosting over the still-warm ube cinnamon rolls in the pan. The warmth of the rolls will slightly melt the frosting. Serve your magnificent Ube Cinnamon Rolls warm for the absolute ultimate experience.
11. Step 11
    Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to restore warmth and softness.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.