How to Make Soft and Buttery Nastar (Pineapple Tarts)

Nastar illustration. (Image by Abdi from Liputan6) 

Nastar, or pineapple tartspineapple tarts, are a popular Indonesian delicacy often served during festive occasions like Eid and Chinese New Year. These bite-sized pastries feature a rich, buttery crust filled with sweet and tangy pineapple jam. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to make perfect nastar at home!

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Ingredients

For the Pastry Dough:

- 250g unsalted butter or margarine
- 50g powdered sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 350g all-purpose flour (low protein)
- 2 tbsp milk powder
- 50g cornstarch

For the Pineapple Jam Filling:

- 300g fresh pineapple, finely grated
- 100g granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves

For the Egg Wash (Glaze):

- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp milk

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pineapple Jam

Illustration of making a pineapple jam. (Credit on AI picture) 

1. Grate fresh pineapples or blend them into a smooth puree.
2. Transfer the pineapple puree to a saucepan and cook over medium heat.
3. Add sugar, cinnamon stick, and cloves, stirring occasionally.
4. Continue cooking until the jam thickens and all excess water evaporates.
5. Remove from heat, discard the cinnamon and cloves, and let it cool.
6. Once cool, roll the jam into small balls (about 1 cm in diameter) for easy filling later.

Step 2: Making the Pastry Dough

Illustration of making pastry dough. (Credit on AI picture) 

1. In a mixing bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add egg yolks and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add sifted flour, milk powder, and cornstarch.
4. Knead gently until the dough is smooth and soft (avoid over-kneading to keep the texture crumbly).

Step 3: Assembling the Nastar

1. Take a small portion of dough (about 10g), flatten it in your palm.
2. Place a pineapple jam ball in the center and wrap the dough around it.
3. Roll into a smooth ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Repeat until all the dough and filling are used.

Step 4: Applying the Egg Wash and Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
2. Mix egg yolks with milk to create an egg wash.
3. Brush a thin layer of egg wash over each nastar for a glossy, golden finish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown.

Nastar illustration. (Image by Abdi from Liputan6)  

Step 5: Cooling and Storing

1. Remove from oven and let the nastar cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
3. Serve and enjoy with tea or coffee!

Tips for Perfect Nastar

✔ Use high-quality butter for a richer, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
✔ Let the jam cool completely before shaping to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
✔ Do not over-knead the dough; it should be soft and easy to work with.
✔ Brush the egg wash lightly to avoid a thick, uneven glaze.
✔ Bake at a low temperature to prevent the cookies from cracking.

By following these detailed steps, you can create delicious, buttery, and aromatic nastar that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy baking!

let me know how your nastar cake turned out 🤗