Name: Delicious Ube Cinnamon Rolls for a Cozy Brunch Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Warm Milk (at 120°F); 2 tablespoons Active Dry Yeast; 2 Large Eggs (at room temperature); 1/2 cup Salted Butter (softened); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (plus 1 tablespoon for yeast); 1 tablespoon Ube Extract; 1 teaspoon Salt; 3 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1/2 cup Ube Halaya/Jam; 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (optional); 2 teaspoons Saigon Cinnamon Powder; 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened); 1/4 cup Butter (softened); 2 cups Confectioners' Sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 cup Heavy Cream

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A delightful aroma wafts through the kitchen as these Easy Ube Cinnamon Rolls transform an ordinary Sunday into something magical. With their vibrant color and soft, pillowy texture, these rolls combine the classic cinnamon roll experience with a sweet, nutty twist that only ube can provide. Not only are they a feast for the eyes, but their fluffy dough paired with creamy frosting makes them perfect for sharing over breakfast or brunch, or even as an indulgent dessert. You’ll love how this recipe is both quick to prepare and a comforting treat that adds flair to any gathering. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and bring some joy into your kitchen?

Why are Ube Cinnamon Rolls irresistible?

Visual appeal: Those stunning purple swirls make these rolls a showstopper at any table.
Comfort food: Combined with the gooey cream cheese frosting, they deliver cozy vibes that everyone loves.
Quick to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delicious rolls ready in no time!
Versatile delight: Serve them for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert – they fit any occasion! Pair them with Biscoff Cookie Butter Cinnamon Rolls or Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls for a delightful spread.
Unique flavor: The nutty hint of ube pairs beautifully with classic cinnamon, creating a delightful twist on a beloved favorite.

Ube Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough

Warm Milk – Activates the yeast; use milk at 120°F for optimal yeast growth.
Active Dry Yeast – Vital for leavening; make sure it froths when mixed with warm milk.
Large Eggs – Adds richness and binds the dough; ensure they’re at room temperature for even mixing.
Salted Butter – Provides moisture and flavor; unsalted butter can be used as a substitute.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and activates the yeast; you can omit or reduce for less sweetness.
Ube Extract – Infuses the dough with a lovely purple hue and nutty flavor; adjust the amount based on brand strength.
Salt – Enhances flavor and regulates yeast activity.
All-Purpose Flour – The structural base of the dough; substitute with a gluten-free blend if necessary.

For the Filling

Ube Halaya/Jam – Provides the signature flavor and color of the rolls; use homemade or store-bought.
Brown Sugar (optional) – Adds depth of flavor; can be omitted for a less sweet option.
Saigon Cinnamon Powder – Introduces warmth and spice to the filling; adjust quantity to your taste.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese – Brings tanginess and body to the frosting; ensure it’s softened for a smooth texture.
Butter – Adds creaminess; softened for easier mixing.
Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens and thickens frosting.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; you can swap with almond extract for a unique twist.
Salt – Balances the frosting’s sweetness.

Optional

Heavy Cream – Keeps the rolls moist during baking; influences texture and may be replaced with milk.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Ube Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate Yeast
Begin by gently warming your milk to 120°F. In a small bowl, combine this warm milk with active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Stir lightly and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy—a sign that your yeast is activated and ready to create fluffy ube cinnamon rolls.

Step 2: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frothy yeast mixture with room temperature eggs, softened salted butter, remaining sugar, salt, and all-purpose flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms, ensuring everything is well incorporated. This process usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes, and you’ll want to aim for a smooth consistency.

Step 3: Knead Dough
Transfer your dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough feels soft, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which should take roughly 1.5 hours.

Step 4: Roll Out
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a generous rectangle measuring approximately 20×10 inches. Make sure the edges are even, as this will help create beautiful swirls in your ube cinnamon rolls when rolled up.

Step 5: Add Filling
Spread a layer of ube halaya evenly across the rolled-out dough, ensuring it reaches the edges. Then, sprinkle a combination of cinnamon and optional brown sugar over the ube, distributing it evenly to create a sweet, flavorful filling. Visualize the beautiful color combination as you prepare to roll.

Step 6: Shape Rolls
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the long edges. Once fully rolled, use dental floss to slice the log into about 12 equal pieces, gently pulling the floss to maintain their shape. Place each slice cut-side up in a greased baking dish, ensuring there’s a bit of space between them for rising.

Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the cinnamon rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 to 60 minutes until they expand. This second rise is essential for achieving those fluffy, delicious ube cinnamon rolls that are so beloved at brunch gatherings.

Step 8: Preheat Oven & Prepare Cream
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 325°F. Just before you’re ready to bake, pour warm heavy cream over the top of the rolls. This step enhances moisture during baking, ensuring they come out soft and tender, which is essential for the perfect ube cinnamon rolls.

Step 9: Bake
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for approximately 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and they’re done when the tops are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches between 180°F and 190°F. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma as they bake to perfection.

Step 10: Make Frosting
While the rolls cool slightly in the pan, prepare your cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla extract, and confectioners’ sugar until smooth and creamy. This luscious frosting will add the perfect finishing touch to your warm ube cinnamon rolls.

Step 11: Frost & Serve
Once the rolls have cooled for about 10 minutes, generously frost them with the cream cheese mixture. Watch how the frosting melts into every swirl, creating a decadent topping. Serve these delightful ube cinnamon rolls warm for the ultimate cozy brunch experience that everyone will adore!

Tips for the Best Ube Cinnamon Rolls

Perfect Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure your milk is at 120°F; too hot will kill the yeast, leading to dense rolls.
Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing; this allows for better incorporation into the dough.
Gentle Handling: When cutting and transferring the rolls, be gentle to maintain their shape and avoid losing the beautiful swirls of ube.
Second Rise Matters: Don’t rush the second rise; allowing the dough to expand properly will result in fluffier, lighter ube cinnamon rolls.
Frosting Technique: Let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes before frosting; this prevents the icing from melting too much, giving you a delightful finish.

Ube Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these rolls to your tastes—they’ll be delicious no matter what!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk for a lighter, plant-based option. Enjoy the nutty flavor as you indulge!
Pumpkin Twist: Replace ube halaya with pumpkin puree for a seasonal delight that sings of fall spices. Your taste buds will dance with glee!
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the ube beautifully.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make a delectable version for those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy the perfect texture!
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom in the filling to elevate the flavor profile. Each bite will unveil a new note of warmth!
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Swirl in chocolate chips along with the ube halaya for a rich, indulgent treat that combines flavors beautifully. Like a sweet hug from inside!
Cinnamon Roll Cross: Combine this ube filling with traditional cinnamon sugar for a hybrid roll that offers the best of both worlds. Classic meets modern in every bite!
Cream Cheese Swirl: Mix cream cheese into your ube filling for a creamy, tangy experience that adds decadence and softens the flavor beautifully. You won’t want to miss it!

These creative twists will surely brighten up your brunch table. For additional inspiration, consider pairing your rolls with Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls or Basil Beef Rolls for a varied spread that everyone will love!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Ube Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours ahead by following these steps: After shaping the rolls (Step 6), cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only allows the flavors to meld but also ensures your rolls stay fresh. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding with the second rise (Step 7) and baking. For even greater convenience, you can also freeze the rolled unbaked cinnamon rolls and bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Enjoy delicious Ube Cinnamon Rolls with minimal effort on those busy mornings!

How to Store and Freeze Ube Cinnamon Rolls

Fridge: Store leftover ube cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 20 seconds before enjoying.

Freezer: Freeze the rolls in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and warm in the oven for a freshly-baked taste.

Room Temperature: Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can still satisfy your sweet tooth.

Reheating: For the best experience, reheat rolls in a microwave, covered with a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds, ensuring they remain soft and gooey.

What to Serve with Easy Ube Cinnamon Rolls

Indulging in these delightful rolls opens up a world of delicious pairings that can elevate your brunch experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls, balancing flavors beautifully. The juicy burst of fresh berries and citrus will brighten your meal.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and a touch of honey, yogurt enhances the rolls’ sweet notes, creating a wholesome treat that complements their fluffiness while adding a satisfying crunch.
Savory Bacon or Sausage: The salty, rich flavors of crispy bacon or savory sausage create a delightful contrast, making for a well-rounded breakfast spread that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Nutty Granola: A crunchy nut or seed granola not only pairs well in texture but also adds a wholesome touch that invites you to savor each bite alongside the sweet ube cinnamon rolls.
Rich Black Coffee or Tea: The bold flavors of coffee or the soothing notes of tea provide a perfect beverage pairing, cutting through the sweetness and accentuating the rolls’ unique flavors.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of warm maple syrup can enhance the flavor of your ube cinnamon rolls while adding a touch of extra sweetness that feels just right for brunch.
Chilled Milk or Almond Milk: Classic and simple, a glass of cold milk or creamy almond milk complements the rolls’ richness, both smooth and satisfying with each bite.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, coconut whipped cream offers a tropical twist, highlighting the ube’s nutty undertones and adding a luscious texture that begs for a second serving.

Ube Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ube extract?
Absolutely! When choosing ube extract, look for one that has a vibrant purple color and a natural vanilla or pistachio scent. Some brands may vary in strength, so it’s best to start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste as you’re making your Ube Cinnamon Rolls.

How long can I store leftover Ube Cinnamon Rolls?
I recommend storing your leftover Ube Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, transfer them to the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat them slightly in the microwave for about 20 seconds to enjoy their soft, gooey texture again!

Can I freeze Ube Cinnamon Rolls, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Ube Cinnamon Rolls, let them cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to the yeast being too old or the milk being too hot (over 120°F). Make sure to check the temperature and freshness. If it’s too late and your dough hasn’t risen, you can try to knead in some more yeast and let it rise again, or simply use it as a flatbread base instead!

Are Ube Cinnamon Rolls suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! You can make Ube Cinnamon Rolls gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, including your ube extract, are also gluten-free. Enjoy these tasty rolls without worry!