Ube Swirl No-Bake Cheesecake is a vibrant and indulgent dessert that combines the richness of classic cheesecake with the unique and sweet flavor of ube. This no-bake version is simple to make and creates a beautiful, visually stunning treat with its mesmerizing purple swirl. The combination of a crunchy shortbread coconut crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and the distinct flavor of ube makes this cheesecake a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ube Swirl No-Bake Cheesecake is a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The smooth, creamy filling is perfectly complemented by the nutty and buttery shortbread coconut crust, making every bite an unforgettable experience. The swirl of vibrant ube halaya not only adds a delightful flavor but also gives the cheesecake a stunning visual appeal. This no-bake version saves time, making it a perfect option for when you want a decadent dessert without the hassle of baking. Plus, it can be prepared in advance and chilled, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities!

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups shortbread cookie crumbs (about 6 oz. cookies)
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 cup butter
2 Tbsp. packed brown sugar
2 1/4 cups heavy cream
1 (0.25-oz.) envelope unflavored gelatin
3 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 Tbsp. whole milk plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 1/2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
6 Tbsp. powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 cup ube halaya (ube jam)
1/2 tsp. ube extract (optional)
Additional ube halaya and/or fresh berries and toasted coconut for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make Crust

In a small bowl, stir together shortbread crumbs, coconut, butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Press very firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill until ready to use, up to 1 day.

Bloom Gelatin

Place 1/2 cup of the heavy cream in a 1-cup liquid measuring cup. Sprinkle gelatin over top and let stand for 5 minutes. Microwave for 30 seconds and stir. Continue microwaving and stirring in 10-second intervals until gelatin is dissolved. Cool slightly.

Make Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, yogurt, and lemon juice with a mixer on medium speed until smooth.
Beat in the gelatin mixture, powdered sugar, vanilla, and the remaining 1 3/4 cups heavy cream.

Add Ube Halaya

Divide the cheesecake batter evenly between two medium bowls (about 3 cups per bowl). Add the ube halaya and ube extract (if using) to one of the bowls and beat with a mixer on medium until well combined.

Add Filling

Spoon about 3/4 cup of the purple ube batter onto the prepared crust. Spread it to the edge of the pan using the back of a spoon.
Create concentric circles by spooning alternating colors of batter into the pan, using less of each batter as you go and leaving a 1/2-inch border of the previous color visible.
Tap the pan two or three times on the counter between colors to level out the batter.

Make the Swirl

Gently drag a skewer or butter knife through the batters from the outside edge toward the center 10 to 12 times to create a flowerlike design. Make sure to avoid scraping the crust, and wipe the skewer between drags.
Cover and chill the cheesecake overnight or for up to 5 days.

Serve It

If desired, serve the cheesecake with additional ube halaya, fresh berries, and toasted coconut.

To Make Toasted Coconut: Spread shredded coconut in an even layer in a shallow baking pan. Bake in a 325°F oven, stirring once, until golden, about 6 to 8 minutes. Watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes approximately 10-12 servings.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: At least 6 hours, preferably overnight
Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

Fruit Toppings: For extra flavor and color, top the cheesecake with fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
Ube Flavor Boost: If you prefer a stronger ube flavor, increase the amount of ube extract or ube halaya in the filling.
Nutty Crust: Add crushed pistachios or almonds to the crust for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
This no-bake cheesecake should be served chilled, so there’s no need for reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular gelatin instead of unflavored gelatin?

No, unflavored gelatin is required for this recipe to set the cheesecake filling properly. Regular gelatin may alter the texture.

2. Can I use a different type of jam instead of ube halaya?

Ube halaya is essential for this recipe’s flavor, but if you’re looking for a substitute, you could try using a similar purple yam jam or sweetened taro paste.

3. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. It needs to chill for at least 6 hours, but overnight chilling is best for the best texture and flavor.

4. Is it possible to make the crust without coconut?

Yes, you can omit the coconut if you prefer. Use more shortbread cookie crumbs or substitute with another type of nut or crushed graham crackers.

5. Can I freeze this cheesecake?

While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the cheesecake (without the toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

6. Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?

You can make the cheesecake in a regular 9-inch round pan, but you may have difficulty removing it neatly. Using parchment paper or plastic wrap can help make removal easier.

7. Can I make the filling without yogurt?

Yes, if you don’t have yogurt, you can substitute it with sour cream or even cream cheese for a richer filling.

8. Can I use pre-made ube jam?

Yes, you can use store-bought ube jam if you don’t have the time to make it from scratch. Just ensure it’s a high-quality product for the best flavor.

9. How can I make sure the cheesecake sets properly?

Make sure to bloom the gelatin as directed and allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the filling mixture. The chilling time is also essential for the cheesecake to firm up.

10. Can I serve this cheesecake with other toppings?

Absolutely! Fresh fruit, toasted nuts, or even a drizzle of chocolate ganache would complement the ube flavor beautifully.

Conclusion

Ube Swirl No-Bake Cheesecake is an indulgent and visually stunning dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. The creamy texture, combined with the sweet and unique flavor of ube, makes this cheesecake a delightful treat for any occasion. With its simple preparation, vibrant appearance, and rich flavor, it’s the perfect dessert to impress your guests or simply enjoy a special treat.