Sweet Kumara Pie: A Delicious Kids’ Snack in Bali, Indonesia
Discover a delightful recipe for Sweet Kumara Pie, inspired by Bali’s tropical flavors.
This wholesome snack is perfect for four kids and incorporates local spices to make it a unique, kid-approved treat. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Table of Contents
What is Sweet Kumara Pie?
Sweet Kumara Pie is a comforting dish made with sweet potatoes (kumara), baked into a creamy, flavorful pie.
Infused with tropical spices and sweetened naturally, it’s a healthy and delicious snack your kids will love.
Balinese Inspiration for Sweet Kumara Pie
This recipe draws inspiration from Bali’s vibrant culinary traditions.
It incorporates coconut milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg, often used in Balinese desserts, to enhance the natural sweetness of kumara.
These elements make the dish both exotic and familiar to young palates.
Ingredients for Bali-Inspired Sweet Kumara Pie (Serves 4 Kids)

For the Pie Filling:
500g sweet potatoes (kumara), peeled and cubed
150ml coconut milk
2 tbsp palm sugar (or brown sugar)
1 tsp cinnamon powder
1/2 tsp nutmeg powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
100g cold butter, diced
2 tbsp cold water
1/2 tsp salt
Optional Garnish:
Fresh grated coconut
A drizzle of honey
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sweet Kumara Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
Add cold butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Work quickly to keep the butter from melting.
Gradually add cold water, mixing gently until the dough comes together into a smooth ball.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
Boil the sweet potato cubes in a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Drain and transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a large bowl. Mash thoroughly using a potato masher or fork until smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Create the Filling
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine mashed sweet potatoes, coconut milk, palm sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract.
Stir continuously to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture becomes velvety and smooth.
Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature before assembling the pie.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and lightly grease a pie tin.
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 3mm. Carefully transfer it to the pie tin, pressing it into the edges.
Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
Pour the cooled sweet potato filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Place the pie tin on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the filling sets.
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Presentation
Serve in Traditional Bowls: Present slices of pie in coconut shells lined with banana leaves for an authentic Balinese touch.
Add a Tropical Garnish: Sprinkle freshly grated coconut on top of the pie slices and drizzle with a little palm sugar syrup for added sweetness and shine.
Decorate with Edible Flowers: Use vibrant flowers such as frangipani or marigolds, which are common in Bali, to adorn the plate for a colorful and festive look.
Incorporate Balinese Tableware: Serve the pie on woven bamboo trays or wooden platters to emphasize the local cultural aesthetic.
Create Layers of Flavor: Offer a side of freshly sliced tropical fruits like mango or pineapple to complement the pie’s sweetness.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 kid-sized portions
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 40,000-60,000 (~$2.50-$4 USD)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 220 kcal
Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 180mg
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 3g
Calories
220 kcal
Fat
8g
Cholestrol
20mg
Sodium
180mg
Carbohydrates
32g
Protein
3g
FAQs about Sweet Kumara Pie in Bali
Q1: Can I find all the ingredients for this recipe in Bali?
A: Yes, sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and palm sugar are widely available in local markets and grocery stores across Bali.
Q2: Are there traditional Balinese variations of this recipe?
A: While this pie is inspired by Balinese flavors, traditional Balinese desserts like jaje laklak use similar ingredients such as coconut and palm sugar.
Q3: What’s the best way to serve this pie at a Balinese celebration?
A: Serve the pie on a decorative banana leaf-lined platter with colorful tropical garnishes and pair it with Bali’s signature ginger tea.
Q4: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the butter in the crust with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative to make the pie vegan-friendly.