Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe for Kids in Bali, Indonesia
Discover the joy of creating a sweet treat that kids love with this Bali-inspired sugar cookie recipe.
With a touch of tropical flair, these cookies are perfect for families visiting or living in Bali. Let’s get baking!
What are Sugar Cookies?
Sugar cookies are classic buttery treats, often enjoyed for their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Adding a Bali twist makes them unique with hints of tropical flavors that reflect the island’s vibrant essence.
Balinese Inspiration for Sugar Cookies
Inspired by Bali’s rich culinary heritage, this recipe incorporates coconut milk and vanilla for a tropical flavor.
Locally available ingredients like palm sugar can also be used to make these cookies even more authentic.
Ingredients for Bali-Inspired Sugar Cookies (Serves 4 Kids)

For the Cookies:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar (or palm sugar for a local twist)
1/4 cup coconut milk
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Optional Decorations:
Colorful sprinkles
Shredded coconut
Edible flowers (like frangipani petals)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Gradually add the coconut milk and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, combining gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Form the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, making it easier to roll and shape.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the chilled dough to about 0.5 cm thickness.
Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into fun shapes such as stars, hearts, or tropical motifs like palm trees.
Carefully transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 cm apart.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Decorate and Serve
Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with your choice of sprinkles, shredded coconut, or edible flowers. For a Bali-inspired touch, use bright colors and tropical-themed toppings.
Serve the cookies on a beautifully arranged platter with banana leaves or woven trays for an authentic presentation.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Presentation
Use Traditional Serving Trays: Arrange cookies on bamboo trays or plates lined with fresh banana leaves to highlight the tropical theme.
Incorporate Edible Flowers: Decorate the serving plate with locally available edible flowers like frangipani or marigolds for an eye-catching and fragrant presentation.
Pair with Tropical Beverages: Serve the cookies alongside coconut water, fresh fruit juices, or Balinese herbal teas for a complete experience.
Create Mini Towers: Stack cookies of varying shapes and sizes to form small towers on the plate, adding a playful yet elegant touch.
Highlight Local Craftsmanship: Use wooden or handcrafted ceramic bowls sourced from Bali for a touch of local artistry in your table setting.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 kid-sized portions
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 30,000-40,000 (Approx. $2-3 USD)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 140 kcal
Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 2g
Calories
140 kcal
Fat
6g
Cholestrol
15mg
Sodium
50mg
Carbohydrates
19g
Protein
2g
FAQs about Sugar Cookies in Bali
Q1: Can I use pandan essence instead of vanilla extract?
A: Yes, pandan essence adds a unique, fragrant flavor that’s popular in Balinese and Indonesian desserts.
Q2: Are there eco-friendly packaging options for gifting these cookies?
A: Absolutely! Use woven bamboo boxes or small banana leaf wraps tied with natural twine for an authentic and sustainable gift presentation.
Q3: Can I substitute palm sugar with another sweetener?
A: Yes, you can use brown sugar or coconut sugar, both of which retain a similar caramelized flavor suitable for Bali-inspired cookies.
Q4: How do Balinese traditions influence dessert preparation?
A: Balinese desserts often incorporate natural, locally sourced ingredients like coconut milk and palm sugar, reflecting the island’s emphasis on fresh, sustainable cooking.