Name: Taro Ube Cloud Cake: Indulge in This Delightful Dessert Dream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Cake Flour (or gluten-free baking blend); 1 cup Cooked, Mashed Taro (ensure cooled); 1/2 cup Ube Halaya (ube jam) (or high-quality ube powder); 5 large Eggs (separate yolks and whites); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (divided); 1/2 cup Whole Milk (or coconut milk); 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil (neutral flavor); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (opt for pure); 1/2 teaspoon Cream of Tartar (for meringue stability); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (small pinch)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant purple of ube and the earthy tones of taro brought a burst of creativity to my day. This Taro Ube Cloud Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Filipino flavors transformed into a light, fluffy chiffon cake. With its ethereal texture that feels like a sweet cloud melting on your tongue, and a whipped ube halaya topping to add an extra layer of delight, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Not only does it look stunning with its pastel lavender hue, but it’s also make-ahead friendly, allowing you to enjoy stress-free moments with loved ones. Curious to whip up this dreamy dessert? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is Taro Ube Cloud Cake a Must-Try?

Indulgent Flavor: The combination of earthy taro and sweet ube creates a uniquely delightful profile that will surprise and tempt your taste buds.

Light and Airy: With a fluffy texture, this chiffon cake truly lives up to its name, making it a light choice for any gathering.

Visual Appeal: Its pastel lavender hue not only catches the eye but also adds elegance to any celebration, whether it’s a birthday or a wedding.

Versatile Options: Feel free to explore flavor modifications like a coconut cream swap or macapuno addition, making this cake your own!

Make-Ahead Friendly: Preparing this cake in advance allows you to enjoy more quality time with your guests. Pair it with a side of Mini Cheesecakes New for a delightful dessert spread!

Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a gathering or a simple afternoon delight, this Taro Ube Cloud Cake will surely impress everyone.

Taro Ube Cloud Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Cake Flour – Provides structure and lightness; substitute with a gluten-free baking blend including xanthan gum for a gluten-free version.
Cooked, Mashed Taro – Adds earthy flavor; ensure it is cooled before using to prevent the batter from being affected.
Ube Halaya (ube jam) – Offers both flavor and color; for a quick alternative, high-quality ube powder can replace it, adjusting sugar to taste.
Eggs – Essential for structure and leavening; separate the yolks for the batter and the whites for the meringue for best results.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetness and stability for the meringue; divided into two portions to maintain the fluffiness in both the batter and meringue.
Whole Milk – Adds moisture and richness; consider using coconut milk for a tropical flair.
Vegetable Oil – Contributes moisture; choose neutral flavor oils like canola for a better result.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure extract for a more robust taste.
Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes the meringue, which is vital for achieving those stiff peaks.
Salt – Balances flavors and enhances sweetness; a small pinch works wonders in both yolk and meringue.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Taro Ube Cloud Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven warms up, take a 9-inch chiffon or angel-food cake pan and do not grease it; this will help the cake climb the sides as it bakes, ensuring a rise that gives our Taro Ube Cloud Cake its luscious texture.

Step 2: Yolk Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, half of the granulated sugar, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, cooled mashed taro, and ube halaya until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This blend will create the flavorful base for your cake, capturing that unique taro and ube fusion. Set aside to let the flavors meld as you prepare the next step.

Step 3: Beat Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they become foamy. Gradually add the remaining sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until stiff peaks form; this may take about 5-7 minutes. The peaks should stand tall and firm, which is crucial for achieving the airy texture of the Taro Ube Cloud Cake.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently lighten the yolk mixture by folding in one-third of the whipped egg whites. Then, carefully incorporate the remaining meringue, using a spatula to fold it in until no white streaks remain. This process ensures you maintain the fluffy consistency needed for the cake’s cloud-like quality, seamlessly blending the flavors of taro and ube.

Step 5: Bake
Pour the combined batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the surface is golden and springs back when touched lightly. The aroma of baking will envelop your kitchen, signaling that your Taro Ube Cloud Cake is on its way to perfection.

Step 6: Cool Upside Down
Once the cake is done baking, immediately invert the pan onto a bottle or funnel to let it cool completely upside down. This cooling method prevents the cake from collapsing while still warm and maintains its airy height, a crucial step in creating the proper texture for your Taro Ube Cloud Cake.

Step 7: Release and Top
After the cake has cooled completely, run a knife around the edge of the pan to gently release the cake. For the final touch, whip some cream to soft peaks, folding in a little ube halaya for extra flavor. Spread this whipped topping generously over the cooled cake, transforming your Taro Ube Cloud Cake into a delightful centerpiece perfect for sharing.

What to Serve with Taro Ube Cloud Cake

Bring your celebration to life by pairing delightful sides and beverages that enhance the heavenly taste of this airy dessert.

Coconut Macaroons: The chewy sweetness of coconut macaroons adds a delicious tropical flair that complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing combination of tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and berries cuts through the sweetness, providing a juicy balance.
Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or creamy chai tea elevates the dessert experience, contrasting nicely against the cake’s lightness.
Ube Cheesecake Bites: For the ultimate Filipino-inspired dessert spread, these rich, creamy bites echo the ube flavor and delight every palate.
Crushed Pistachios: Sprinkling crushed pistachios over the cake creates a pleasing crunch that offers an unexpected texture and nutty flavor enhancement.
Coconut Cream: A dollop of coconut cream on the side adds extra richness, enhancing the tropical flavor harmony, and providing a wonderful creaminess.
Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream: This earthy, slightly bitter ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the sweet cloud cake, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted white chocolate over each slice adds a sweet, creamy finish, further elevating the lovely pastel appeal.
Mango Sticky Rice: The warm rice paired with sweet coconut sauce and ripe mango pairs incredibly well with the Taro Ube Cloud Cake, offering a comforting duo of flavors.
Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing drink, serve sparkling water with a spritz of lime, cleansing the palate beautifully between bites of the cake.

How to Store and Freeze Taro Ube Cloud Cake

Fridge: Store your Taro Ube Cloud Cake lightly covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its fluffy texture and taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight. You can also leave them at room temperature for a couple of hours for quicker access.

Reheating: If desired, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy a slightly warm, comforting taste of this delightful dessert.

Expert Tips for Taro Ube Cloud Cake

Cool Taro Properly: Ensure that your cooked and mashed taro is completely cooled before mixing; warm taro can affect the cake’s rise.
Perfect Egg Whites: Be sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This is crucial for the airy structure of your Taro Ube Cloud Cake.
Gentle Folding: When combining the yolk mixture with meringue, use a gentle folding motion. This preserves the airiness, preventing the cake from becoming dense.
Avoid Greasing the Pan: Never grease the chiffon or angel-food cake pan. This allows the cake to cling to the sides and rise beautifully.
Oven Temperature Matters: Keep an eye on your oven temperature; a too-low setting can impede the rising process, affecting the texture of your cake.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Taro Ube Cloud Cake ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time and enjoy a stress-free baking experience! You can mix the yolk and meringue components up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the yolk mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator and keep the whipped egg whites in a separate bowl covered with plastic wrap. Just before baking, gently fold the meringue into the yolk mixture for a light and airy cake. Additionally, once baked and cooled, you can refrigerate the Taro Ube Cloud Cake for up to 3 days or freeze slices for up to a month, ensuring it remains just as delicious when it’s time to enjoy. This make-ahead strategy allows you to focus more on spending quality time with your loved ones!

Taro Ube Cloud Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to add your own twist to this delightful Taro Ube Cloud Cake with these exciting suggestions!

Cheesy Twist: Top with grated sharp cheddar for a sweet-savory contrast that surprises the palate. Imagine the delightful fusion of flavors as the nuttiness of cheddar mingles with the sweetness of ube.
Coconut Cream Swap: Replace half the milk with coconut milk and sprinkle with toasted coconut for a tropical flair. This variation enhances the moisture while layering in a delicious coconut aroma.
Matcha Swirl: Incorporate matcha powder into the yolk mixture for an earthy flavor and visual appeal. The rich green color pairs beautifully with the cake, making it a feast for the eyes and taste buds alike.
Macapuno Addition: Include chopped macapuno for added texture and a chewy contrast to the fluffy cake. This sweet, tender coconut offers delightful bites amidst the airy layers of ube and taro.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate this cake with a drizzle of dark chocolate ganache for a bittersweet finish. Chocolate and ube are a match made in heaven, offering a decadent touch that will leave your guests wanting more.
Lavender Infusion: Add a few drops of culinary lavender extract to the batter for a subtle floral note. The floral aroma complements the sweet flavors, creating an enchanting dessert experience.

Exploring these variations gives you the freedom to customize your Taro Ube Cloud Cake to fit any occasion beautifully. If you’re looking for more delightful desserts, consider adding a slice of Moist Strawberry Shortcake to your menu for a fruity complement!

Taro Ube Cloud Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right taro?
Absolutely! When selecting taro, look for firm, unblemished pieces. They should be heavy for their size without any dark spots, which can indicate spoilage. Fresh taro has a creamy white to light purple interior, and I recommend choosing medium-sized ones as they usually have the best flavor.

How should I store my Taro Ube Cloud Cake?
Your Taro Ube Cloud Cake should be stored in an airtight container, lightly covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep its fluffiness intact. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, and I often do, it can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Just slice it up, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Can I freeze Taro Ube Cloud Cake? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your Taro Ube Cloud Cake! Follow these steps: First, let the cake cool completely after baking. Then, slice it into portions and wrap each slice tightly with plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container and label them with the date. They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them out in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

What if my cake doesn’t rise well?
Very! If your Taro Ube Cloud Cake doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to a few reasons. Ensure your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks, as this is crucial for lift. Also, check that your baking powder is fresh and that you haven’t greased the pan, as this helps the cake rise. If your taro mixture was warm when added to the eggs, it can also affect the rise. Keep a close eye on your oven temperature—too low can hinder rising.

Is this cake safe for those with allergies?
The Taro Ube Cloud Cake can be tailored for various dietary needs! It is naturally vegetarian, and if you use gluten-free cake flour, it can also be made gluten-free. However, please ensure none of the ingredients trigger allergies for your guests. For instance, if someone is allergic to eggs, you might explore egg substitutes, but this could affect the texture. Always check labels on packaged ingredients like ube halaya to avoid allergens.

Can my pets enjoy a piece of this cake?
What a thoughtful question! While the Taro Ube Cloud Cake is delightful for humans, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Specifically, the ingredients like sugar and dairy can upset their stomachs. It’s always safe to give them pet-friendly treats instead!