Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies Kids Love in Bali, Indonesia
Discover the perfect gluten-free treat for your little ones with this Bali-inspired peanut butter cookie recipe.
Easy, nutritious, and bursting with tropical flair, these cookies are sure to delight families visiting or living in Bali.
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What are Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies?
These are soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies made without gluten.
Perfect for kids and adults, this version combines peanut butter’s nutty goodness with a hint of tropical Bali-inspired ingredients.
Balinese Inspiration for Peanut Butter Cookies
Drawing from Bali’s love for natural flavors, this recipe uses coconut sugar and vanilla from local orchids.
These elements add a subtle sweetness and tropical aroma, making the cookies truly unique.
Ingredients for Bali-Inspired Peanut Butter Cookies (Serves 4 Kids)
Wet Ingredients:
1 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract (preferably Balinese)
Dry Ingredients:
½ cup coconut sugar
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Peanut Butter Cookies
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl for thorough mixing.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add coconut sugar, sea salt, and cinnamon to the wet mixture. Stir until the dough becomes thick and cohesive.
Avoid overmixing to maintain the cookie’s tender texture.
Shape the Cookies:
Scoop out even portions of dough (about a tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Arrange them on the prepared tray, leaving space between each cookie.
Flatten the balls gently with a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The cookies may appear soft initially but will firm up as they cool.
Cool and Store:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Store in an airtight container to retain freshness for up to a week.
Serve and Enjoy:
Pair with a refreshing glass of coconut milk or fresh tropical juice to complement the flavors.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Presentation
Add a Tropical Touch: Line your serving plate with fresh banana leaves for an authentic Balinese aesthetic. The leaves add a subtle fragrance that enhances the experience.
Use Traditional Balinese Platters: Present the cookies on woven bamboo trays or clay plates commonly used in Bali. These elevate the visual appeal while staying true to local traditions.
Decorate with Edible Garnishes: Add a vibrant touch with edible flowers like frangipani or marigolds. These flowers are not only beautiful but also widely associated with Balinese culture.
Serve with Local Accents: Accompany the cookies with small bowls of grated coconut or a drizzle of palm sugar syrup on the side for an extra layer of indulgence.
Balinese Table Setting: Arrange the table with palm leaf placemats and handmade bamboo utensils to complete the island-style presentation.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 4 kid-sized portions
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 40,000-60,000 (Approx. $2.50-$4 USD)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 180 kcal
Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 120mg
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 6g
Calories
180 kcal
Fat
12g
Cholestrol
30mg
Sodium
120mg
Carbohydrates
14g
Protein
6g
FAQs about Peanut Butter Cookies in Bali
Q1: Can I substitute coconut sugar with palm sugar?
A: Yes, grated palm sugar is a wonderful alternative. It adds a deeper caramel flavor that complements the tropical theme.
Q2: Are these cookies suitable for Balinese ceremonies?
A: Absolutely! These cookies can be offered during family gatherings or festive occasions as a modern yet respectful twist on traditional sweets.
Q3: Can I add grated coconut to the dough?
A: Yes, adding a tablespoon of grated coconut enhances the texture and infuses the cookies with extra tropical flavor.
Q4: What’s the best way to involve kids in this recipe?
A: Let them shape the cookies and make fork patterns! It’s a fun, hands-on activity that kids will enjoy.