Nutritious and Easy Muffin Ideas for Kids Enjoying Life in Bali
Discover the perfect muffin recipe that’s both kid-approved and inspired by the tropical flavors of Bali.
These healthy, delicious muffins are designed with busy families in mind, featuring local ingredients to create a unique and nutritious treat.
Whether you’re visiting Bali or living here with your children, this recipe will bring smiles to your little ones’ faces.
Table of Contents
What are Bali-Inspired Muffins?
Bali-inspired muffins are wholesome, flavorful treats infused with tropical ingredients like coconut, banana, and pandan.
They’re easy to make, healthy, and packed with nutrients, ensuring kids get the energy they need for a day of exploration in Bali.
Balinese Inspiration for Muffins
This recipe draws from Bali’s rich culinary traditions.
Local staples like coconut milk, palm sugar, and pandan leaves bring vibrant flavors, while ingredients like bananas and cinnamon add a comforting sweetness.
These muffins balance taste and nutrition, making them perfect for kids.
Ingredients for Bali-Inspired Muffins
Dry Ingredients:
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup oat flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon powder
Wet Ingredients:
2 medium ripe bananas (mashed)
1/3 cup coconut milk
1/4 cup palm sugar (or brown sugar)
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
1 egg (or flaxseed egg for vegan option)
1 tsp pandan extract (optional for a tropical twist)
Add-Ins:
1/4 cup grated coconut
1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate or raisins
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Muffins
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with a bit of coconut oil.
Gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Sifting the dry ingredients ensures even mixing and avoids lumps in the batter.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly until no chunks remain.
Add coconut milk, palm sugar, melted coconut oil, egg (or flaxseed egg), and pandan extract. Whisk the mixture until smooth and all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 4: Create the Batter
Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Stir gently to avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense muffins.
Once combined, fold in the grated coconut and your chosen add-ins, ensuring even distribution.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
This allows space for the muffins to rise while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes.
Rotate the tin halfway through to ensure even baking. The muffins are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy them warm with a drizzle of honey or as a standalone snack.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Muffins
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, locally sourced bananas, pandan leaves, and coconut milk to enhance the authentic Bali flavors.
Incorporate Local Flavors: Sprinkle freshly grated palm sugar or a light dusting of desiccated coconut on top of the muffins before baking to create a caramelized crust.
Serve with Balinese Charm: Present the muffins on banana leaves or traditional Balinese serving trays to elevate the experience. Arrange tropical fruits like mango slices or dragon fruit around the muffins for a vibrant platter.
Add Edible Garnishes: Use edible flowers like marigolds or frangipani, commonly seen in Bali, to decorate the plate for a festive and aromatic touch.
Create Layers: Stack the muffins pyramid-style on a woven bamboo tray, adding small bowls of honey or jam for dipping on the side.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 kid-sized portions
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 40,000-50,000 (Approx. $2.50-$3.50 USD)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories
180 kcal
Fat
6g
Cholestrol
20mg
Sodium
120mg
Carbohydrates
30g
Protein
4g
FAQs about Muffins in Bali
Q1: Can I use fresh grated coconut instead of desiccated coconut?
A: Absolutely! Fresh grated coconut adds more moisture and authentic flavor to the muffins. Just ensure it’s finely grated for even mixing.
Q2: Are there traditional Balinese drinks to pair with these muffins?
A: Yes, pair these muffins with Bali’s signature beverages like fresh young coconut water or a warm cup of ginger tea (wedang jahe) for a complete local experience.
Q3: Can these muffins be made gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the wheat flour with a gluten-free blend or rice flour, commonly found in Bali’s markets.
Q4: What’s a good alternative to pandan extract if unavailable?
A: Vanilla extract or a pinch of ground cardamom can provide a unique yet complementary flavor to the muffins.