Chunky Ube Cookies Recipe (Levain-Style)

These chunky ube cookies are the perfect treat for ube lovers. With a gooey center, crispy edges, and loads of white chocolate, they combine Filipino flair with New York’s famous Levain-style cookie texture. Here’s how to recreate this viral sensation in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

IngredientAmount
Cold Unsalted Butter (cubed)230g (2 sticks)
Brown Sugar160g
White Sugar160g
All-Purpose Flour475g
Baking Powder3 tsp
Salt1 tsp
Ube Powder25g
Ube Extract1 tsp
Eggs2 whole
Egg Yolk1
White Chocolate Chips300g

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ube powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the eggs and ube extract. Stir until evenly mixed and purple in color.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat cold butter just until broken into chunks (30-35 seconds). Do not cream.

Add both sugars and pulse until it resembles small pebbles (about 45 seconds).

4. Add the Mix-ins

Stir in the white chocolate chips until well distributed.

5. Combine Everything

Add dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Mix on low until it looks sandy and dry. Add the egg mixture and mix slowly (speed 1–2) just until combined. Avoid overmixing.

6. Portion the Dough

Divide into large balls (approx. 165g each). Rough-shape the dough balls to create a craggy surface. Do not roll into smooth balls.

7. Freeze the Dough

Place the cookies on a tray close together and freeze for at least 2 hours (overnight is better). This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

8. Bake the Cookies

Preheat oven to 365°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment. Place 6 dough balls on the sheet, spaced at least 2 inches apart.

Bake for 15–17 minutes on the middle rack. Cool on the sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Chunky Ube Cookies

Pro Tips for Perfect Chunky Ube Cookies

  • Never skip the freeze: It’s essential to stop the cookies from spreading and to get that thick Levain-style height.
  • Use cold butter: It gives the cookie structure and a crisp exterior.
  • Underbake slightly: The residual heat continues to cook the center, keeping it gooey and soft.
  • Avoid overmixing: A rough dough creates more texture and prevents flat, tough cookies.

Storage

  • Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Frozen Dough: Keep frozen dough balls for up to 1 month.
  • Reheat: Warm in microwave for 10–15 seconds to enjoy soft centers again.

Try More Ube and Filipino Dessert Recipes

Looking for more delightful purple yam desserts or tropical treats?

Leave a Comment