As the sweet scent of caramelized pineapple danced through my kitchen, I found myself eagerly anticipating the delicious treat that was about to emerge from the oven. This isn’t just any dessert; it’s Nastar, a delightful Indonesian pastry that transforms simple ingredients into a burst of tropical flavor. Perfect for a cozy gathering with friends or a special family occasion, these little rolls are sure to impress.
I discovered this recipe during a nostalgic search for traditional treats that reminded me of sunny days spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, marveling at her culinary magic. With its warm spices and golden pastry, Nastar reflects the heart of home cooking—where love mingles with simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to elevate your weeknight snacks, this recipe will bring a touch of exotic charm to your table without the fuss of complex techniques. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s bring the taste of Indonesia to your kitchen!
Why is Nastar a must-try recipe?
Delightful flavors: The sweet pineapple jam is a perfect balance of tropical sweetness and warm spices, making it irresistible.
Easy preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of homemade delight in no time.
Crowd-pleaser: These little rolls are perfect for sharing at gatherings, ensuring everyone goes home with a smile!
Unique twist: Nastar combines the classic pastry roll with an exotic filling, offering a taste sensation you won’t forget.
Perfect for snacking: Ideal for tea time or dessert, these treats make any snack break feel special.
Looking for more delicious treats? Try my guide on easy homemade pastries to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Nastar Ingredients
• Get ready to create these delightful pineapple rolls!
For the Pineapple Jam
- Pineapple – 4.5 lbs (2kg) of fresh or canned pineapple adds a juicy sweetness to your fillings.
- Sugar – 21 oz (600g) helps to caramelize and sweeten the jam for that perfect flavor balance.
- Cloves – 3 cloves introduce a warm spice that enhances the tropical essence of Nastar.
- Cinnamon Stick – 5 cm (2 inches) brings an aromatic warmth that complements the pineapple beautifully.
For the Pastry
- All-purpose Flour – 10 oz (¼oz) creates the base for a light and flaky pastry.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – 1.5 oz (45g) adds a touch of sweetness for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Milk Powder for Baking – 1.5 oz (45g) contributes to the rich flavor and softness of the dough.
- Cornstarch – 0.5 oz (15g) helps to create a tender, delicate pastry that’s easy to roll.
- Unsalted Butter – 7 oz (200g), at room temperature, is essential for a rich, creamy consistency in your dough.
For the Egg Wash
- Egg Yolks – 2 egg yolks provide a golden glaze that makes your Nastar shiny and appetizing.
- Additional Egg Yolks – 3 more egg yolks boost richness and keep the texture perfect.
- Condensed Milk – 1/4 teaspoon adds a hint of sweetness to the egg wash, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Dive into the wonderful world of Nastar, and let’s create a treat that feels homemade and full of love!
How to Make Nastar
-
Blend the pineapple in an electric blender for about 10 seconds until smooth with a slight texture. Transfer this mixture to a non-stick pot for cooking.
-
Cook the pineapple over medium to low heat, adding the sugar, cloves, and cinnamon stick, stirring continuously. You’ll know it’s ready when it forms a golden jam, which takes a few hours of patience and attention. Once done, cool the jam completely.
-
Sift together the flour, sugar, milk powder, and cornstarch two times to ensure a light mixture. Then, in a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks one by one, mixing well after each addition. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture on low speed until fully combined.
-
Roll out about 50g (1¾ oz) of the pastry dough at a time between two sheets of plastic, creating a thin layer. Pipe the cooled pineapple jam onto the dough and carefully roll it up to encase the jam inside.
-
Cut the rolled dough into 4 cm (1.5 inch) long pieces using scissors. Arrange these pineapple rolls neatly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for baking.
-
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Combine the egg wash ingredients well, and brush the tops of the pineapple rolls with this mixture twice for a beautiful glaze.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Once baked, allow them to cool before storing in airtight containers.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Making Nastar
-
Perfect Pineapple Jam: Ensure you cook the pineapple mixture slowly; this helps to concentrate flavors and achieve the right jam consistency. Avoid rushing this step!
-
Dough Consistency: The pastry should be soft but not sticky. If too wet, add a bit more flour during mixing to avoid compromising the texture of the Nastar.
-
Thin Layers: Roll the dough as thin as possible without tearing. This creates a flaky pastry that beautifully contrasts the rich pineapple filling.
-
Even Baking: Keep your oven at a stable temperature. Open the oven door as little as possible while baking to ensure even heat distribution for perfectly golden rolls.
-
Storage Tips: For the best experience, store your Nastar in airtight containers to maintain freshness, but they taste best within the first few days!
Make Ahead Options
These Nastar rolls are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time when you’re busy! You can prepare the pineapple jam up to three days in advance, simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its delightful flavor. Likewise, the pastry dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, encase the refrigerated jam, and follow the final baking steps. This way, you’ll enjoy these sweet pineapple rolls with minimal fuss, just as fresh and delicious as if you had made them that day!
How to Store and Freeze Nastar
Room Temperature: Store Nastar rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer storage time, refrigerate the rolls in a sealed container for up to 1 week, ensuring they remain soft and tasty.
Freezer: Freeze Nastar by wrapping each roll in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat the rolls in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the pineapple flavor to shine again.
Nastar Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix things up with these delightful twists for your Nastar creation!
-
Vegan: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use aquafaba instead of egg yolks for a plant-based delight.
Making Nastar vegan is easier than you think! The coconut oil adds a subtle tropical flavor that complements the pineapple perfectly. -
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a safe and tasty alternative.
Many enjoy the texture of gluten-free flour blends; they absorb flavors well and ensure everyone at the table can delight in these treats. -
Add Spices: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg or cardamom to the pastry for additional warmth and depth.
A hint of these spices can take your Nastar to a whole new level, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. -
Fruit Swaps: Try using mango or guava instead of pineapple for a fruity twist!
Each fruit brings its unique flavor and personality to the rolls, creating a different surprise with every bite. Who knows your favorite might change! -
Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds) to the pastry for added texture and flavor.
This little change will introduce a satisfying crunch, making your Nastar even more delightful to savor during snack time. -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of chili powder to the pineapple jam for an unexpected heat that complements the sweetness.
The contrast of spicy and sweet is truly a showstopper that makes every bite exciting. -
Herbal Freshness: Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint or basil to the jam for a refreshing flavor boost.
This unique combination can transform the traditional into something intriguingly modern, perfect for those warm, sunny afternoons. -
Chocolate Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
This luxurious addition elevates the simple Nastar to a dessert that feels extra special, just perfect for those special occasions.
What to Serve with Nastar?
Looking to create a delightful spread that complements the sweet pineapple rolls? Here are some perfect pairings!
-
Coconut Rice: The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of coconut rice balance the richness of Nastar beautifully.
-
Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea, like chai or masala, enhances the tropical flavors and makes for a cozy afternoon delight.
-
Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a fresh contrast to the rich pineapple jam, making your meal feel vibrant.
-
Sliced Cheesecake: Creamy cheesecake provides a rich and indulgent pairing that transforms your’s into a satisfying dessert experience.
-
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A warm chocolate sauce invites a fun and interactive element for dipping the rolls, satisfying those sweet-tooth desires.
-
Crispy Spring Rolls: The crunchy texture of savory spring rolls can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet Nastar, creating an exciting flavor combo.
-
Lychee Sorbet: This icy, fruity dessert brings a refreshing cleanse to the palate, letting the delicate flavors of Nastar shine through.
-
Honeydew Melon Smoothie: A creamy smoothie made with honeydew melon adds a light, sweet touch while perfectly balancing the flavors of the pastry.
-
Mango Lassi: This yogurt-based drink is both creamy and refreshing, making it a fantastic, tangy companion to the sweet rolls.
Enjoy serving your Nastar with these delightful pairings for a full sensory experience!
Nastar Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pineapple for my Nastar?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fully ripe pineapples that are slightly fragrant and give a little when pressed. Avoid pineapples with dark spots all over, as they may indicate overripeness. Fresh pineapple yields a more vibrant jam compared to canned options!
What is the best way to store leftover Nastar?
After they cool, store your Nastar in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them to last longer, refrigerate for up to 1 week. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to keep them moist!
Can I freeze my Nastar for later enjoyment?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge before serving!
What should I do if my dough is too sticky while making Nastar?
If your dough feels sticky, don’t worry! Just sprinkle a little more all-purpose flour into the mixing bowl. Add it slowly, working it in until the dough becomes manageable but still soft. This will help you achieve that perfect texture without losing any flakiness!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Nastar?
It’s important to note that Nastar contains eggs and dairy, so if you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider using egg substitutes or dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond cream in the pastry. For pets, always make sure they’re kept away from these treats as the ingredients may not be suitable for them.
What if my pineapple jam doesn’t thicken properly?
If your pineapple jam is too runny, continue to cook it on low heat, stirring regularly until it evaporates more liquid. Aim for a thick, spreadable texture, almost like peanut butter. If you’re in a pinch, a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water can help in thickening—it’s a lovely kitchen hack!
Delicious Homemade Nastar: Sweet Pineapple Rolls Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend the pineapple in an electric blender for about 10 seconds until smooth with a slight texture. Transfer this mixture to a non-stick pot for cooking.
- Cook the pineapple over medium to low heat, adding the sugar, cloves, and cinnamon stick, stirring continuously. You'll know it's ready when it forms a golden jam, which takes a few hours of patience and attention. Once done, cool the jam completely.
- Sift together the flour, sugar, milk powder, and cornstarch two times to ensure a light mixture. Then, in a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks one by one, mixing well after each addition. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture on low speed until fully combined.
- Roll out about 50g (1¾ oz) of the pastry dough at a time between two sheets of plastic, creating a thin layer. Pipe the cooled pineapple jam onto the dough and carefully roll it up to encase the jam inside.
- Cut the rolled dough into 4 cm (1.5 inch) long pieces using scissors. Arrange these pineapple rolls neatly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for baking.
- Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Combine the egg wash ingredients well, and brush the tops of the pineapple rolls with this mixture twice for a beautiful glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Once baked, allow them to cool before storing in airtight containers.