Bolen Lilit: Indonesian Banana Roll Pastry

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about the sweet aroma of baked goods wafting through the kitchen, especially when bananas are involved. The first time I made Bolen Lilit, my family was mesmerized. The combination of caramelized bananas, gooey chocolate, and the flaky texture of Danish pastry created a delightful treat that quickly became a favorite in our home. It’s a dessert that not only satisfies sweet cravings but also transports you to the bustling streets of Indonesia with each bite. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a quick snack, Bolen Lilit is a treat worth sharing.

Ingredients

For Bolen Lilit:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 10 ripe bananas
• Cheese or chocolate chips (to taste)
• 2 egg yolks (for brushing)
• Danish pastry (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Prepare the Bananas

1. Melt Butter: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Cook Bananas: Add the bananas to the pan and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until both sides are slightly browned and caramelized.
3. Cool Down: Remove the bananas from the heat and allow them to cool. Once cooled, slice each banana in half lengthwise.

Fill the Bananas

4. Add Filling: Take the sliced bananas and fill the center with either grated cheese or chocolate chips, depending on your preference. You can mix and match for variety.

Prepare the Danish Pastry

5. Flatten Pastry: Lightly sprinkle some all-purpose flour on a clean surface. Take the Danish pastry and roll it out slightly to flatten it.
6. Cut Pastry: Cut the pastry into 6-7 elongated pieces that are large enough to wrap around the bananas.

Wrap the Bananas

7. Wrap: Take each filled banana and wrap it with the elongated pieces of Danish pastry, ensuring they are completely covered.

Brush and Sprinkle

8. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Brush the wrapped pastries with the egg yolk to give them a golden finish.
9. Sprinkle: Top the pastries with additional grated cheese or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Bake

10. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C).
11. Bake: Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Enjoy!

12. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your freshly baked Bolen Lilit!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 10
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 60 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm for a delightful treat.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
• Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee.
• Enjoy as a snack anytime!

Additional Tips

1. Ripe Bananas: Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
2. Experiment with Fillings: Try different fillings like peanut butter or Nutella for variety.
3. Store-Bought Pastry: If you’re short on time, store-bought Danish pastry saves preparation time.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with gluten-free pastry for a gluten-free version.
5. Serve Immediately: Enjoy the pastries right after baking for the best texture.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate and Cheese Combo: Fill with both chocolate chips and grated cheese for a savory-sweet experience.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the filling for extra crunch.
• Fruit Fusion: Mix in other fruits like strawberries or mango slices for a tropical twist.
• Spiced Up: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on the bananas before wrapping for added flavor.
• Savory Version: Replace the bananas with savory fillings like spiced potatoes or sautéed vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a dessert at dinner parties or family gatherings.
• Pack as a snack for picnics or school lunches.
• Pair with sweet sauces like chocolate or caramel drizzle.
• Serve with fresh fruit or a fruit salad on the side.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Wrap unbaked Bolen Lilit in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover baked pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate and reheat in the oven.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other fruits?

• Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like apples or peaches.

1. What can I substitute for Danish pastry?

• You can use puff pastry or phyllo dough as an alternative.

1. How do I know when they are done baking?

• They should be golden brown and puffed up. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare them a day ahead and bake them just before serving.

1. Are they suitable for breakfast?

• Absolutely! They make a delicious and sweet breakfast option.

1. Can I make them mini-sized?

• Yes! Just cut the pastry and bananas into smaller portions for bite-sized treats.

1. What should I do if the bananas are too soft?

• Use slightly firmer bananas to prevent them from falling apart.

1. Can I use coconut milk instead of butter?

• While it may change the texture, you can try using coconut oil for a different flavor.

1. How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?

• Ensure the bananas are not overly ripe and use a good quality pastry.

1. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
   • You can substitute butter with vegan butter, use plant-based cheese, and replace eggs with flax eggs.

Conclusion

Bolen Lilit is a delightful Indonesian treat that perfectly combines the sweetness of bananas with the richness of pastry. Whether you’re enjoying it at breakfast, as a dessert, or as a snack, it’s sure to be a hit. With its versatility and simplicity, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. So why not gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and indulge in this deliciously sweet pastry? Your taste buds will thank you!

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