Wholesome Apple Cookies: A Kid-Friendly Treat in Bali, Indonesia
Discover how to make these wholesome apple cookies, a perfect recipe for kids in Bali.
Infused with local flavors and made with love, these cookies are a delightful snack for young ones visiting or living on the island. Let’s dive into this Bali-inspired recipe!
Table of Contents
What Are Apple Cookies?
Apple cookies are soft, chewy, and flavorful treats made with fresh apples, oats, and natural sweeteners.
This Bali-inspired version incorporates tropical flavors, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Perfect for snacks, lunchboxes, or even dessert!
Balinese Inspiration for Apple Cookies
This recipe blends the essence of Bali’s tropical ingredients, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, to elevate the natural sweetness of apples.
With the addition of palm sugar and a hint of lime zest, these cookies capture Bali’s vibrant and aromatic culinary traditions.
Ingredients for Bali-Inspired Apple Cookies (Serves 4 Kids)
Dry Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
1 large apple (grated)
1/4 cup palm sugar (or brown sugar)
2 tbsp coconut oil
1 egg (or flaxseed egg for a vegan option)
1 tsp lime zest
Optional Add-ins:
2 tbsp raisins
1 tbsp chopped cashews or almonds
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Apple Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash and grate the apple, ensuring the skin remains intact for added fiber. Gently squeeze out any excess liquid if the apple is overly juicy.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg (or prepare a flaxseed egg by mixing 1 tbsp flaxseed meal with 2.5 tbsp water and letting it sit for 5 minutes).
Add grated apple, palm sugar, melted coconut oil, and lime zest to the egg. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and well-integrated.
Step 4: Combine and Shape the Dough
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft texture.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each portion slightly with the back of a spoon to ensure even baking.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For a crispier texture, leave the cookies in the oven for an additional 2 minutes after turning off the heat.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Presentation
Use Traditional Serving Plates: Serve the cookies on plates lined with banana leaves for an authentic Bali aesthetic.
Incorporate Edible Flowers: Decorate the plate with frangipani or marigold flowers, commonly found in Bali, to add a touch of tropical elegance.
Layering for Visual Appeal: Arrange the cookies in a pyramid style or in concentric circles on a woven bamboo tray for an eye-catching presentation.
Add Local Garnishes: Sprinkle desiccated coconut or drizzle a thin layer of palm sugar syrup over the cookies for added flavor and visual appeal.
Pair with Local Drinks: Serve alongside a glass of fresh tamarind juice or Balinese lemongrass tea to complement the tropical flavors of the cookies.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12 small cookies (perfect for 4 kids)
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 40,000-50,000 (~$2.50-$3.50 USD)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 120 kcal
Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 40mg
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 2g
Calories
120 kcal
Fat
5g
Cholestrol
10mg
Sodium
40mg
Carbohydrates
17g
Protein
2g
FAQs about Apple Cookies in Bali
Q1: Can I use local Balinese spices to enhance the flavor?
A: Absolutely! Adding a pinch of freshly ground cloves or cardamom can give the cookies a unique Balinese twist.
Q2: Are there traditional Balinese sweeteners I can use?
A: Yes, you can use gula aren (Balinese palm sugar) as a sweetener for an authentic local flavor.
Q3: How can I involve kids in the cookie-making process?
A: Kids can help with grating the apple, mixing ingredients, and shaping the dough into fun shapes using cookie cutters.
Q4: Can these cookies be offered during Balinese ceremonies?
A: Yes, these cookies can be a delightful addition to offerings during ceremonies, especially if arranged with banana leaves and flowers for a traditional touch.