If you have a soft spot for pastries that bring together buttery flakiness and sweet tropical flavors, then you’re going to adore this Bolen Lilit: Indonesian Banana Roll Pastry Recipe. It’s a delightful treat where tender ripe bananas meet either rich chocolate or savory cheddar cheese, all lovingly wrapped in a crisp, golden pastry. Whether as a cozy afternoon snack or a centerpiece dessert, this recipe captures the warmth of Indonesian culinary tradition while being surprisingly easy to prepare. Trust me, once you make these rolls, they’ll quickly become your go-to for sharing smiles and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here, just simple, wholesome ingredients that work in harmony to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and that irresistible golden color. Each item is chosen to support the delicate pastry and luscious banana filling, so you’ll want to gather them carefully.
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups gives the dough structure and flakiness essential for amazing pastry layers.
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup adds just the right amount of subtle sweetness to the dough itself.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (cold and cubed): 1 cup ensures tender, flaky layers and richness in every bite.
- Cold water: 1/2 cup brings the dough together without making it tough.
- Firm ripe bananas: 6 halves, perfect for slicing and wrapping into rolls without falling apart.
- Chocolate chips or grated cheddar cheese: 1/2 cup, for the delicious filling options that suit both sweet and savory cravings.
- Egg (beaten): 1, mixed with milk, for that beautiful shiny egg wash finish.
- Milk: 1 tablespoon, to mix into the egg wash for extra golden color.
- Powdered sugar (optional): 1 tablespoon, to dust over your cooled rolls for a touch of elegance and sweetness.
How to Make Bolen Lilit: Indonesian Banana Roll Pastry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Then add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers to rub it into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs. This step is key for that flaky texture everyone loves. Slowly add the cold water, stirring gently until the dough forms a ball. Wrap it up and chill for 30 minutes to help the butter relax and firm up again before rolling out.
Step 2: Roll the Dough
Lightly flour your workspace and roll the chilled dough into a thin rectangle. Don’t rush—taking your time here will make the final pastry super flaky and tender. Cut this large sheet into smaller rectangles, each big enough to wrap securely around a banana half.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Place each banana piece on a dough rectangle. Sprinkle chocolate chips or cheese over the banana to add a burst of flavor in every bite. Then, carefully roll the dough around the filling, making sure to seal the edges tightly to keep all that deliciousness snug inside.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
Set your rolls seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment to prevent sticking. Mix the beaten egg with milk and brush each roll thoroughly to achieve that irresistible golden shine during baking. Pop them into a 375°F oven and bake for around 20 to 25 minutes until they’re beautifully golden and crispy.
Step 5: Cool and Optional Finish
Once baked, let your Bolen Lilit cool for a few minutes so the filling sets a bit. If you want to add an extra touch of sweetness or a pretty finish, sprinkle with powdered sugar right before serving. It’s little touches like this that make it feel truly special.
How to Serve Bolen Lilit: Indonesian Banana Roll Pastry Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the look and flavor, making your Bolen Lilit pop with sweetness. For a richer treat, a light drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can add delightful textures and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This pastry is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes it to another level. If you prefer a savory twist, serve alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
These rolls are perfect for party platters or teatime. Slice them into bite-size pieces for appetizers or arrange them artistically on a wooden board garnished with banana leaves for an authentic Indonesian vibe. They’re also great individually wrapped in parchment as charming homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Bolen Lilit can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keep them away from humidity to preserve the crisp pastry texture as much as possible.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these rolls later, consider freezing them before baking. Arrange wrapped rolls on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge and then proceed with the egg wash and baking steps.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8 to 10 minutes. This will bring back the crispness of the pastry and warm the banana filling without making the pastry soggy like a microwave might.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?
While bananas are traditional for Bolen Lilit, you can experiment with firm fruits like apples or pears. Just make sure they are sliced thin to cook evenly inside the pastry.
Is it possible to make a vegan version?
Absolutely! Use a vegan butter alternative and swap the egg wash for a plant-based milk brush, like almond milk mixed with a little maple syrup for color and shine.
How do I get the pastry extra flaky?
The key is keeping your butter cold and not overworking the dough. Also, chilling the dough before rolling helps develop those beautiful layers in the pastry.
Can I combine chocolate and cheese in the filling?
Yes, mixing chocolate and cheese is a popular twist that balances sweet and savory in every bite. Try a small batch to see how you like the contrast!
What’s the best banana type to use?
Pick ripe but firm bananas, like lady finger bananas or plantains if available, that hold their shape during baking without turning mushy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about making and sharing the Bolen Lilit: Indonesian Banana Roll Pastry Recipe. It’s a simple yet rewarding bake that bridges cultures and flavors with every bite. Whether you lean into the sweet chocolate or the savory cheese fillings, these rolls are sure to brighten up any day. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and create your own delicious memories with it!
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Bolen Lilit: Indonesian Banana Roll Pastry Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indonesian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bolen Lilit is a delightful Indonesian banana roll pastry featuring a flaky, buttery crust wrapped around ripe bananas and filled with either chocolate chips or grated cheddar cheese. This versatile dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for snack times or dessert.
Ingredients
Pastry Dough
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup cold water
Filling and Assembly
- 6 ripe but firm bananas, cut in halves lengthwise
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or grated cheddar cheese (for filling)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water and mix until dough forms. Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when you’re done assembling the rolls.
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a thin rectangle. Cut into smaller rectangles large enough to wrap around each banana half.
- Assemble the rolls: Place a banana half on each dough rectangle. Sprinkle chocolate chips or grated cheddar cheese over the banana. Roll the dough tightly around the filling and seal the edges completely to prevent leakage during baking.
- Prepare for baking: Place the rolls seam side down on a lined baking sheet. Mix the beaten egg with milk to create an egg wash and brush it over each roll to promote a golden, shiny crust.
- Bake the rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastries turn golden brown and are flaky.
- Cool and serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. For an added touch of sweetness, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Use firm bananas so they hold their shape while baking and do not become mushy.
- You can substitute the chocolate chips with cheddar cheese for a savory version or combine both for a unique sweet and savory twist.
- Keep the butter cold when incorporating it into the flour to achieve flaky pastry layers.
