Puto cheese is a classic Filipino treat that is sold in a lot of places in the Philippines. It is a steamed cake known for its airy, fluffy texture, topped with savoury cheese that perfectly complements its mild sweetness. This version features the classic ube flavour with cheese, but feel free to experiment with other popular variations like pandan or plain puto cheese. This ube puto recipe is incredibly easy to make and it is perfect for a simple snack or a dessert at your next party!

Tip #1

Correct Steaming Temperature: Make sure that the water in your steamer is at a gentle simmer before adding the puto moulds. If the water is boiling too vigorously, the bottom of the puto may cook too quickly, and the top may not rise properly.

Tip #2

Proper Cooling: After removing the puto from the steamer, don’t be tempted to take them out of the moulds immediately. Allow them to set for a few minutes in the moulds at room temperature. This helps them firm up a bit, so they hold their shape better when removed, preventing them from collapsing or sticking.

Tip #3

Testing Doneness: Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into a puto. It should come out clean; if not, steam for an additional minute or two.

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Ube Puto with Cheese

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 12-15 puto

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 cup milk (can be evaporated or fresh)
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon ube extract
1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or eden)
Additional cheese strips for topping
Butter or oil for greasing the moulds

Preparation

Grease the individual puto moulds with butter or oil. Prepare your steamer by filling it with water and bringing it to a simmer over low heat. Make sure the water does not touch the bottom of the steamer basket.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, and baking powder. This helps incorporate air and ensures a smooth mixture.
Add the egg, milk, melted butter and ube extract to this mixture and combine well until the batter is smooth (do not overmix).
Gently fold in the grated cheese with a spatula or spoon, ensuring it's evenly distributed without deflating the batter.
Fill each prepared mold up to 3/4 full with the batter to allow space for the puto to rise during steaming.
Place the filled molds in the steamer basket. Cover and steam for about 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a puto comes out clean.
Quickly open the steamer, place a strip of cheese on top of each puto, then cover and steam for an additional 10-15 seconds, or until the cheese is just melted.
Turn off the heat and allow the puto to rest in the steamer for a few minutes. Remove the puto from the molds and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.