Caramel Straw with Pastel Noodles is a delightful fusion dessert featuring crisp, golden-fried pastry filled or topped with a rich, creamy caramel made from simple ingredients like sugar, butter, milk, and condensed milk. It’s a creative, sweet treat that’s perfect for parties, afternoon snacks, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and crispy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect combination of crunchy and creamy textures. The caramel is smooth and rich, with a deep flavor from the cooked sugar and condensed milk. Paired with flaky fried pastry, it creates a satisfying dessert that’s both comforting and unique. Plus, it uses easy-to-find ingredients and is quick to prepare.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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sugar
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butter
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milk
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condensed milk
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prepared pastry sheets (pastel dough or similar)
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frying oil
Directions
1. Make the Caramel Filling
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a golden caramel color.
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Add the butter and stir until melted and combined.
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Slowly add the milk while stirring (be careful—it may bubble up).
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Pour in the condensed milk and continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy caramel.
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Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Pastry “Straws”
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Cut the pastry sheets into thin strips or roll them into narrow tubes if shaping like straws.
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Heat frying oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry the pastry pieces in batches until golden and crispy, about 1–2 minutes.
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Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
3. Assemble and Serve
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Once the pastry straws are cooled slightly, drizzle or pipe the caramel over them—or dip them directly into the caramel sauce.
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Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or crushed nuts.
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Serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 4–6 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: About 25 minutes
Variations
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Chocolate Twist: Drizzle with melted chocolate in addition to caramel.
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Filled Version: Use the pastel dough to wrap the caramel and fry sealed for a gooey-filled pastry.
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Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the fried pastry in cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
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Spiced Caramel: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel for a warm spice profile.
storage/reheating
These are best enjoyed fresh, as the fried pastry can lose its crispness over time. If needed, store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven to crisp up the pastry. Caramel can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to a week and reheated gently before serving.
FAQs
Can I use puff pastry instead of pastel dough?
Yes, puff pastry works well—just make sure to cut it thin for a crisp texture.
How do I know when the caramel is thick enough?
The caramel should coat the back of a spoon and slowly drip when lifted—this indicates it has thickened properly.
Can I bake the pastry instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes or until golden, though the texture may differ slightly.
What kind of oil is best for frying?
Use neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil with high smoke points.
Can I make the caramel in advance?
Yes, the caramel can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before using.
How do I avoid burning the caramel?
Stir constantly and lower the heat once the sugar starts to brown. Watch it closely, as it can burn quickly.
Can I fill the pastry instead of topping it?
Yes, wrap the caramel in small portions of dough, seal the edges, and fry for a filled pastry version.
Is condensed milk necessary?
Yes, it provides the creamy richness and sweetness key to this caramel. Evaporated milk won’t yield the same result.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut condensed milk, plant-based butter, and non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version.
How do I keep the fried pastry crispy?
Let them cool on a wire rack or paper towels and avoid covering while hot to prevent steam buildup.
Conclusion
Caramel Straw with Pastel Noodles is a creative, indulgent dessert that combines the comforting sweetness of homemade caramel with the irresistible crunch of fried pastry. It’s simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, making it ideal for gatherings or a memorable treat at home. Whether you drizzle, dip, or fill, this dessert is a sure crowd-pleaser.
Print
Caramel Straw with Pastel Noodles
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 caramel straws
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caramel Straw with Pastel Noodles
A crispy and sweet twist on a classic pastry, this dessert features golden-fried “pastel noodles” filled with luscious caramel made from condensed milk, butter, and sugar. Perfect as a fun and indulgent treat!
Ingredients
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3 tablespoons sugar
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1 tablespoon butter
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75 ml milk
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1 can condensed milk
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1 package prepared pastry (pastel dough or spring roll wrappers)
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
Make the Caramel Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with sugar until slightly golden.
Add milk and condensed milk, stirring constantly.
Cook the mixture until thickened and creamy, forming a smooth caramel.
Let cool slightly before using.
2. Prepare the Pastel Noodles (Straws)
Cut the prepared pastry into strips or desired shapes.
Spoon a small amount of caramel onto each piece and roll or shape as desired.
Seal the edges with a dab of water to prevent leaking.
3. Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully fry the filled pastries until golden and crisp (about 1–2 minutes per side).
Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
Serve warm with extra caramel drizzle or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness!
Notes
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Add a pinch of salt to the caramel for a salted caramel version.
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You can also bake instead of fry for a lighter option.
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Works well with fruit fillings too, like banana or apple slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Frying
