Traditional Indonesian Kue Nastar Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of wheat flour
  • 250 grams of margarine
  • 100 grams of refined sugar
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 50 grams of milk powder
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 300 grams of pineapple jam
  • 1 egg yolk, for egg wash

Steps and instructions

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 150°C (302°F).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour, margarine, refined sugar, egg yolks, milk powder, vanilla powder, and salt. Mix these ingredients together until a dough forms.
  3. Take a small amount of dough and flatten it in your hand. Add a small amount of pineapple jam in the center, then fold the dough over to cover the jam and roll it into a ball.
  4. Place the balls of dough on a baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
  5. Beat the remaining egg yolk and use it to brush the tops of each ball of dough.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
  7. Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - Used for combining the ingredients and mixing the dough.
  • Baking Sheet - To place the dough balls on for baking.
  • Basting Brush - Used to brush the egg wash on top of the dough balls.
  • Oven - To bake the Kue Nastar.

Recipe variations

  • Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.
  • Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom powder to the dough for a spiced twist.
  • Try different flavors of jam such as strawberry, raspberry, or apricot.
  • Add a sprinkle of grated cheese on top of each cookie before baking for a savory twist.
  • Add chopped nuts such as almonds or cashews to the dough for extra crunch.
  • Make a vegan version by replacing the egg yolks with mashed bananas or applesauce.
  • Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy flavor.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate on top of each cookie for a decadent touch.
  • Add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the dough for a boozy flavor.

Recipe overview

Kue Nastar is a delightful bite-sized cookie originating from Indonesia, loved for its buttery crust and sweet pineapple jam filling. This recipe will guide you through the simple steps needed to create these delicious treats. The process involves creating a flavorful dough, wrapping it around a dollop of pineapple jam, and then baking to perfection. The result is a golden brown cookie with a sweet and tangy center. This recipe is perfect for those looking to try their hand at traditional Indonesian baking, or anyone seeking a scrumptious and unique cookie. Happy baking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use butter instead of margarine? Yes, you can substitute butter for margarine in this recipe. However, it may slightly affect the texture and taste of the cookies.
  2. Can I use a different flavor of jam? While pineapple jam is traditionally used for Kue Nastar, you can experiment with other flavors such as strawberry or apricot jam if you prefer.
  3. Can I freeze the dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough if you want to prepare it in advance. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw the frozen dough in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
  4. How long can I store the cookies? These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure to store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their freshness.
  5. Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing all the ingredients together
  • Baking Sheet - A flat sheet used for baking the cookie dough
  • Basting Brush - A brush used for applying the egg wash on top of the cookies
  • Oven - A kitchen appliance used for baking the cookies
  • Cooling Rack - A rack used for cooling the cookies after baking

Origin stories

Kue Nastar, or pineapple tart, is a cherished treat in Indonesia, especially during festive occasions like Eid al-Fitr and Christmas. Its origins can be traced back to the Dutch colonial era, as the dessert shows a clear influence from Dutch cuisine. The Dutch are known for their love of sweet pastries and their affinity for spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, which they introduced to Indonesia through trade. The name "nastar" itself is derived from the Dutch word "ananas" and "taart" which translate to "pineapple" and "tart" respectively. Over time, Indonesians have added their own local twist, swapping the traditional Dutch apple for local pineapple and making the tart bite-sized for easier consumption. Today, Kue Nastar is a symbol of hospitality and warmth in Indonesian culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.