Hot Ube Pandesal: Filipino Purple Yam Bread Rolls

Name: Hot Ube Pandesal: Filipino Purple Yam Bread Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 140 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp instant yeast; 1 cup warm milk (about 40°C (104°F)); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 cup ube halaya (or ube jam); 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

140 min 12 rolls Medium

All Recipes

Delight in the sweet and earthy flavours of hot ube pandesal, a vibrant Filipino bread roll filled with purple yam goodness.

Prep

30 min

Cook

20 min

Total

140 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Hot Ube Pandesal is a delightful twist on the traditional Filipino bread, pandesal. Infused with the sweet and earthy flavour of ube, or purple yam, these bread rolls are a vibrant purple hue that makes them as visually appealing as they are delicious. The combination of a slightly sweet dough and rich ube filling makes these rolls a popular choice for breakfast or a snack. This version of ube pandesal captures the authentic flavours of the Philippines while introducing a modern twist that appeals to both traditionalists and newcomers. The soft, fluffy texture of the bread pairs beautifully with the creamy ube filling, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture. Whether you're a fan of Filipino cuisine or just love trying new and exciting baked goods, hot ube pandesal is sure to impress with its unique flavour profile and striking appearance.

Instructions

Prepare the dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.

Pro tip: Ensure the milk is warm to the touch but not hot, to properly activate the yeast.

Knead the dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Pro tip: If the dough is sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

First rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Pro tip: A good spot is inside an off oven with just the light on.

Prepare the filling

Mix the ube halaya and sugar in a small bowl until well combined.

Shape the rolls

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece, add about a tablespoon of ube filling, and seal the edges to form a ball.

Pro tip: Ensure the filling is completely enclosed to prevent it from leaking out during baking.

Coat with breadcrumbs

Roll each dough ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Pro tip: This gives the rolls their characteristic pandesal texture.

Second rise

Place the coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Pro tip: The rolls should be slightly puffed.

Bake the rolls

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Pro tip: They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh ube or high-quality ube jam for the best flavour.
Allow the dough to rise in a warm spot for optimal fluffiness.
Serve warm for the best taste experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ube pandesal?

Ube pandesal is a Filipino bread roll filled with a sweet purple yam mixture, known for its vibrant purple colour and soft texture.

How many calories are in an ube pandesal?

Each ube pandesal contains approximately 210 calories.

Can I use fresh ube instead of ube halaya?

Yes, you can use fresh ube. Cook and mash it thoroughly before mixing it with sugar to use as filling.

How do I store leftover ube pandesal?

Store leftover ube pandesal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

How long should I knead the dough?

Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

Serving Suggestions

Hot ube pandesal is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with its warm, gooey centre and soft, fluffy bread. Pair these delightful rolls with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or afternoon treat. To make ahead, you can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance, allowing you to bake them fresh the next morning. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their softness.

Nutrition per serving

210

Calories

Protein

Fat

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