This Ube Fig Tiramisu Cheesecake is a no-bake, dreamy dessert that layers soft sponge, creamy mascarpone, and a vibrant ube custard for a Filipino-inspired twist on the classic tiramisu. Topped with fresh figs and a dusting of purple yam powder, this elegant, pastel-hued treat is a perfect showstopper for sharing—and snapping for the ‘gram.
For the Ube Custard Layer:
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)
2 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup mascarpone cheese (or softened cream cheese)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cake Base:
1 pack ladyfinger biscuits or sponge cake slices
1/2 cup milk + 1 tsp vanilla extract for soaking
Topping:
Purple yam powder, for dusting
Fresh figs, quartered
Microgreens or edible flowers (optional)
Make the Ube Custard:
In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, ube halaya, cornstarch, sugar, salt, and vanilla. Stir continuously until thickened and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
Make the Cheesecake Layer:
Whip heavy cream to soft peaks. Add mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla, then beat until light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake:
Line a square or rectangular dish with parchment. Dip ladyfingers or sponge slices briefly in the vanilla milk mixture, then lay them flat on the bottom.
Spread a layer of the cheesecake mixture, followed by a layer of ube custard. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, ending with a top layer of ube custard.
Decorate:
Dust the top with purple yam powder. Garnish with fresh figs and microgreens or edible flowers for an extra aesthetic touch.
Chill:
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best sliceable texture. Serve chilled.
For extra ube flavor, mix a spoonful of ube halaya into the mascarpone filling.
You can use ube powder mixed with milk if ube halaya is unavailable.
Best enjoyed within 2–3 days of assembly for freshest texture.
Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/ube-fig-tiramisu-cheesecake/