Roti Sisir Pandan

Name: Roti Sisir Pandan
Prep time: 85 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 350 gr bread flour; 15 gr milk powder; 50 gr sugar; 5 gr instant yeast; 2 egg yolks; 80 gr coconut milk; 100 ml water (cold); 40 gr pandan extract; ½ tsp pandan essence (optional); 45 gr butter; 5 gr salt

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Roti Sisir Pandan is a soft, buttery pull-apart bread with the sweet aroma of pandan. Shaped like a comb (sisir), this nostalgic Indonesian treat is perfect for sharing—comforting, fluffy, and impossible to resist.

Two loaves of roti sisir pandan on a wire rack with one slice open with coconut jam on it.

Roti Sisir Pandan is a soft, buttery pull-apart bread infused with fragrant pandan extract—a tropical twist on the classic Indonesian roti sisir. Shaped like a comb (sisir), this nostalgic bread is perfect for sharing and spreading with margarine, sugar, or your favorite jam.

Just like viral favorites such as Cranberry Cream Cheese Bread and Original Mirukuhasu or Chocolate Mirukuhasu, this pandan bread captures the Indonesian love for soft, fluffy textures and bold flavors. If you’re a fan of Asian-style milk bread, this pandan version will be a delicious addition to your baking list.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Fragrant pandan flavor – The sweet, floral aroma of pandan gives this bread an irresistible Southeast Asian twist that’s both nostalgic and unique.
Soft and fluffy texture – Made with enriched dough, every bite is pillowy soft—just like your favorite Asian bakery breads.
Perfect for sharing – Its pull-apart shape makes it ideal for gatherings, family breakfasts, or simply tearing and enjoying with butter.
Visually striking – The natural green color from pandan extract makes it a beautiful centerpiece on any table.
Versatile topping options – Enjoy it plain, with a butter spread and sugar, or pair it with kaya jam, ube halaya, or chocolate sprinkles for a fun twist.

Recipe Ingredients

Roti sisir pandan ingredients with labels.

Ingredient Notes

Pandan Extract – This gives the bread its signature aroma and natural green hue. It pairs beautifully with coconut milk for that classic Southeast Asian flavor.

Coconut Milk – Adds richness and a subtle coconut fragrance that enhances the pandan. It also helps keep the crumb soft and moist.

Egg Yolk – Contributes to the bread’s soft, fluffy texture while adding a bit of richness to the dough.

Butter – Adds flavor and a tender bite. Brush the top with extra melted butter for that glossy, buttery finish!

Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below

How to Make Roti Sisir Pandan

Step by step process photos of mixing the ingredients for roti sisir pandan dough.

STEP 1. In a mixing bowl, sift in the bread flour and milk powder. Add the sugar, yeast, egg yolks, coconut milk, and pandan extract (Image 1). Attach the paddle and start mixing (Image 2). Once the dry ingredients are fully incorporated, add the butter and salt (Image 3). Continue mixing until the dough becomes smooth and elastic (Image 4). Total mixing time should be around 20 minutes.

Step by step process photos of fermenting the pandan dough and dividing the dough.

STEP 2. Transfer the dough into a greased glass bowl and let it ferment for 30 minutes (Image 5). After resting, the dough should double in size (Image 6). Move it to your work surface (Image 7) and divide it evenly into 20 pieces (Image 8).

Step by step process photos of shaping the dough and assembling a comb in a baking pan.

STEP 3. Take one piece of dough and lightly dust your work surface (Image 9). Roll the dough out lengthwise (Image 10). Flip it so the smoother side is facing down, then fold the dough in half lengthwise (Image 11). Place the folded dough in the baking pan with the seam side facing down (Image 12).

Step by step process photos of fermenting the shaped dough and baking it.

STEP 4. Line up the shaped dough as neatly as possible in the pan (Image 13). Let it ferment again for 20 minutes (Image 14). Bake in a preheated oven at 338°F (170°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter (Image 15). Take the bread out of the pan and cool on a wire rack (Image 16). Enjoy your freshly baked Roti Sisir Pandan!

How to Serve

Split two slices, spread with butter or margarine, sprinkle with sugar, and toast until golden just like the old days. You can also enjoy it with coconut kaya jam, ube halaya, or simply eat it as is—soft, buttery, and fragrant.

Pair it with a refreshing drink like lemongrass pandan tea or butterfly pea flower latte for a perfect afternoon treat.

Pro Tips

Use high-quality pandan extract – The flavor of this bread depends heavily on good pandan. For the most aromatic and natural result, try making your own! I have a simple homemade pandan extract recipe you can follow—it makes all the difference.
Don’t rush the kneading – Give the dough 15–20 minutes of mixing until it’s smooth, stretchy, and elastic. A properly kneaded dough gives you that signature fluffy texture.
Add butter and salt later – Mix them in only after the dough starts coming together. This technique helps build a stronger gluten structure for a better rise and soft crumb.
Weigh for uniform pieces – Dividing the dough evenly (around 20 pieces) helps the bread bake evenly and look extra tidy in the pan—just like a perfect sisir.
Shape with intention – Roll and fold each piece neatly, and place them seam-side down. This gives the bread its comb-like appearance when baked.
Watch the second proof – Overproofing can lead to a flat loaf or uneven baking. Stick to 20 minutes, or proof just until puffy.
Butter it while hot – Brushing melted butter right after baking makes the top glossy and keeps it tender. Don’t skip this—it’s the buttery hug that finishes the loaf!
Store it well – Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temp, or freeze for longer storage.

FAQs about Roti Sisir Pandan

What is Roti Sisir Pandan?

Roti Sisir Pandan is a soft, pull-apart bread flavored with pandan extract. It’s an Indonesian twist on the classic roti sisir, shaped like a comb (sisir) and typically enjoyed with butter and sugar or other spreads.

Why is pandan used in bread?

Pandan adds a natural green hue and a sweet, floral aroma that pairs beautifully with coconut milk and buttery bread. It’s commonly used in Southeast Asian baking for its unique flavor and nostalgic feel.

Can I use homemade pandan extract for this recipe?

Yes! Homemade pandan extract gives the best flavor and color without artificial ingredients. You can follow my homemade pandan extract recipe for a fresh and fragrant result.

Can I make this bread without coconut milk?

You can substitute coconut milk with regular milk or non-dairy alternatives, but coconut milk gives the bread extra richness and enhances the pandan flavor.

Why is my pandan bread not soft and fluffy?

There are a few reasons: under-kneading the dough, not proofing it long enough, or adding butter and salt too early. Make sure the dough is smooth and elastic before shaping, and allow enough time for fermentation.

Two slices roti sisir pandan opened with coconut kaya jam.

Storage

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze. Just reheat gently before serving.