Ube Crinkle Sandwich Cookies Recipe
If you are looking to add a splash of color and a burst of unique, tropical flavor to your cookie repertoire, the Ube Crinkle Sandwich Cookies Recipe is a treat you absolutely have to try. These soft, chewy, purple yam-infused cookies, dusted with powdered sugar and generously filled with a creamy coconut frosting, are a delightful fusion of Filipino tradition and modern baking. Their vibrant hue and heavenly taste make them not just cookies but a conversation starter at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a beautiful snack to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, this recipe is guaranteed to bring joy with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Ube Crinkle Sandwich Cookies Recipe is both simple and rewarding. Each item plays an essential role, from creating the tender cookie texture to infusing that unmistakable ube flavor and lending the perfect creamy filling for a balanced bite.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the soft, chewy cookies.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become perfectly light.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for cookies): Adds richness and moisture, making the cookies tender.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough to just the right amount.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the dough together and contribute to the chewy texture.
- 1/2 cup ube halaya or ube extract: The star ingredient delivering that vibrant purple hue and signature earthy, sweet yam flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cookie flavor.
- Purple food coloring (optional): Intensifies the gorgeous purple color without changing the taste.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling): Ensures the signature crinkle crackle on your cookies.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling): Forms the luscious base of the coconut cream frosting filling.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting filling.
- 2 tbsp coconut cream or heavy cream with coconut extract: Adds the tropical coconut flavor and smooth finish to the sandwich filling.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling): Rounds out the flavor, making the filling irresistible.
How to Make Ube Crinkle Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheets
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper; this simple step ensures your cookies bake evenly and release easily without sticking, resulting in perfect shapes.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these first keeps the leavening agents and salt evenly distributed through the dough, giving your cookies a uniform texture and consistent rise.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
With an electric mixer in a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until you get a light, fluffy mixture. This step usually takes 2 to 3 minutes and is crucial for achieving that tender, airy crumb. Then, add eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before moving on, for a smooth, rich dough.
Step 4: Add Ube and Flavorings
Stir in the ube halaya or ube extract along with the vanilla extract (and food coloring if using). This gives the dough its beautiful purple color and the magic ube taste that makes these cookies stand out.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender rather than tough.
Step 6: Form and Roll in Powdered Sugar
Shape the dough into small balls, about 1½ tablespoons each, then roll them generously in powdered sugar. This coating is what creates the iconic crinkle effect once baked, giving the cookies a snowy, inviting look.
Step 7: Bake Until Perfect
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on your lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cookies have spread out and show beautiful cracks. Cool them on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make the Coconut Cream Filling
While the cookies cool, prepare the filling by beating the softened butter until smooth, gradually adding powdered sugar, coconut cream, and vanilla. Beat until fluffy and spreadable.
Step 9: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
Once the cookies are cool, spread a thick layer of coconut cream frosting on the flat side of one cookie, then top it with another to create the sandwich. Press gently to spread the filling evenly and enjoy!
How to Serve Ube Crinkle Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are stunning on their own, but if you want to add a special touch, sprinkle a light dusting of extra powdered sugar or top with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and visual appeal. This makes the cookies feel extra festive and inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or even a tropical smoothie. The creamy coconut filling and sweet ube flavor complement warm beverages beautifully, making them perfect for an afternoon snack or a delightful dessert after dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the cookies on a vibrant, colorful tray to highlight their natural purple beauty. You can also dip the edges of the sandwiches lightly in melted white or dark chocolate for extra indulgence and a professional finish that will wow friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store these ube crinkle sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep the filling fresh and creamy, it’s best to keep them in a cool area away from direct sunlight.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the sandwich cookies layered between parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
If you want to refresh the cookies’ softness, warm them gently in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent melting the filling completely. This quick step can make the cookies feel just baked and extra comforting.
FAQs
Can I use ube powder instead of ube halaya or extract?
Yes, ube powder is a great alternative if you don’t have ube halaya or extract on hand. Use the recommended conversion on the package and adjust the moisture in your dough accordingly.
What makes these cookies ‘crinkle’?
The ‘crinkle’ effect comes from rolling the cookie dough balls in powdered sugar before baking. As the cookies expand in the oven, the surface cracks, creating the charming crinkle look.
Can I make the filling dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter in the filling with vegan butter or coconut cream-based spreads to keep it dairy-free while retaining that rich, coconut flavor.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your dough is well chilled before shaping, and avoid adding extra butter or liquid. Proper spacing on the baking sheet also helps maintain shape during baking.
Is there a way to intensify the ube flavor?
Adding a bit more ube halaya or using a high-quality ube extract makes the flavor more vibrant. Using purple food coloring is optional but can enhance the visual appeal.
Final Thoughts
These Ube Crinkle Sandwich Cookies Recipe bring together the best of flavor, texture, and color in a way that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re craving a whimsical dessert or searching for a show-stopping treat to share, these cookies are a perfect choice. Give this recipe a try, and let the magical purple yam flavor brighten your kitchen and delight the taste buds of everyone lucky enough to try them.
