Ube Purple Crinkle Fudge Cookies

There’s something utterly magical about the vibrant hue of ube, the purple yam that has taken the culinary world by storm. These Ube Purple Crinkle Fudge Cookies are a spectacular fusion of chewy fudge-like texture and the uniquely sweet, earthy flavor of ube halaya. Rolled in powdered sugar, they create a stunning crinkle effect that’s as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Perfect for dessert lovers who crave something colorful and indulgent, these cookies bring a fresh twist to your cookie jar and are guaranteed to impress at any gathering.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

The combination of rich, fudgy texture with the unmistakable flavor of ube makes these cookies stand out. Everyone loves a cookie that’s soft and chewy, but these add an extra layer of fun with their crinkled powdered sugar coating. The vibrant purple color is eye-catching and Instagram-worthy, making them a hit at parties and special occasions. Plus, their subtle sweetness means they’re not overpowering, appealing to a wide range of taste buds. Whether you’re serving them with a cup of tea or packing them as a sweet snack, these cookies bring smiles and a splash of color to any occasion.

Ingredient Notes

• Ube Halaya (Purple Yam Jam): This is the star ingredient that provides the vibrant purple color and unique flavor. Use a good-quality ube halaya for the best taste and texture.
• Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: The mix of sugars balances sweetness and adds depth of flavor. Brown sugar also contributes moisture and chewiness.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter creates a tender and fudgy texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookie’s soft texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and complements the ube’s natural sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cookies. Sift it to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth dough.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents help cookies rise slightly and create that soft crumb.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• Powdered Sugar: Used for rolling the dough balls before baking to create the signature crinkle effect.

Gear Checklist

• Mixing Bowls – For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer – To cream butter and sugars, and beat eggs.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Accurate measurements are key for perfect cookies.
• Sieve or Fine Mesh Strainer – To sift flour and powdered sugar for smooth texture.
• Baking Sheet – For baking the cookies evenly.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat – Prevents sticking and eases cleanup.
• Cooling Rack – Allows cookies to cool properly and maintain texture.
• Cookie Scoop or Spoon – For uniform cookie sizes.

Ube Purple Crinkle Fudge Cookies Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by softening the unsalted butter to room temperature. Measure out your sugars, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sift the dry ingredients together in one bowl. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the ube halaya and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes on medium speed.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the ube mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, beating well to combine. Then, slowly incorporate the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the cookies.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 5: Shape and Coat

Once chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar to coat completely. This step creates the signature crinkle effect as the cookies bake.

Step 6: Bake

Place the coated dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be soft and fudgy in the center but set on the edges.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these vibrant, fudgy delights with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.

Texture-Safe Substitutions

• Butter: Use margarine sticks or coconut oil (solid form) to keep the fudgy texture intact.
• All-Purpose Flour: A gluten-free all-purpose blend can be used, but expect slight changes in texture.
• Eggs: Substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or commercial egg replacer per egg for a similar binding effect.
• Ube Halaya: If unavailable, sweet potato puree mixed with a bit of purple food coloring can mimic the flavor and color.

Missteps & Fixes

• Dough Too Sticky: Chill it longer or add a tablespoon of flour gradually until manageable.
• Cookies Spread Too Much: Make sure your butter is not melted and the dough is well chilled before baking.
• Cookies Too Dry or Crumbly: Reduce baking time slightly and ensure not to overbake. Also, check that the brown sugar is packed properly to maintain moisture.
• No Crinkle Effect: Don’t skip rolling in powdered sugar and ensure the dough balls are well coated before baking.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These Ube Purple Crinkle Fudge Cookies store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Because of their fudgy texture, they stay pleasantly soft and chewy even after freezing.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen ube halaya for this recipe?

Yes, frozen ube halaya can be used, but thaw it completely and give it a good stir to restore smoothness before mixing into the dough.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Look for set edges with a slightly soft center. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking to maintain that fudgy texture.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with solid coconut oil or vegan margarine and eggs with applesauce or another egg replacer to keep the texture similar.

Why do the cookies crack on top?

The cracks are a desired feature of crinkle cookies. They form when the dough expands during baking beneath the powdered sugar coating, creating the signature look.

Wrap-Up

These Ube Purple Crinkle Fudge Cookies are a true celebration of ube’s unique flavor and stunning color. With their fudgy texture, sweet aroma, and delightful powdered sugar coating, they are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. The recipe is simple to follow, with flexible ingredient options to suit various dietary needs or ingredient availability. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just a cozy night in, these cookies bring warmth, joy, and a pop of purple to any moment. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear!

Enjoy baking and savor every colorful, fudgy bite!

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