Medal Cookies Recipe: A Fun Reward for Kids in Bali
Treat your kids to an engaging and delicious activity with these Medal Cookies.
Perfect for family fun, this recipe adds a Balinese twist to make the cookies even more special with locally sourced flavors and tropical presentation.
Table of Contents
What Are Medal Cookies?
Medal Cookies are delightful shortbread biscuits that can be decorated to resemble medals, making them a fun snack for celebrations or as a reward for kids. This version includes tropical influences and vibrant Balinese colors.
Balinese Inspiration for Medal Cookies
In Bali, vibrant celebrations often include sweet treats inspired by local ingredients like coconut and palm sugar. Adding these elements to Medal Cookies creates a unique and delicious experience for kids and families.
Ingredients for Kids (Serves 4)
For the Cookies:
100g unsalted butter, softened
50g palm sugar (or brown sugar)
150g plain flour
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decoration:
1/4 cup grated coconut (toasted)
2 tablespoons colorful sprinkles
1 tablespoon edible flowers (optional)
4 ribbons (optional, for medal effect)
For the Balinese Glaze:
2 tablespoons palm sugar syrup
1 teaspoon lime juice
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Prepare the Dough:
Soften 100g of unsalted butter at room temperature. Cream the butter with 50g of palm sugar using a hand mixer until light and fluffy.
Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
Sift 150g of plain flour into the mixture gradually while folding it in with a spatula. Continue until the dough forms a smooth, pliable consistency.
Chill and Roll the Dough:
Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to firm it up. This step ensures easier handling and more precise shapes.
Dust a clean work surface with flour. Roll out the dough to a thickness of 0.5 cm using a rolling pin.
Shape the Cookies:
Use a round cookie cutter to create medal-like shapes. Create a small hole near the edge of each cookie using a straw to thread ribbons later.
Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring enough space between them for even baking.
Bake the Cookies:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until they turn light golden brown. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.
Prepare the Decorations:
Toast 1/4 cup of grated coconut in a dry pan over low heat until golden and aromatic.
Prepare the glaze by mixing 2 tablespoons of palm sugar syrup with 1 teaspoon of lime juice.
Decorate the Cookies:
Brush the cooled cookies with the palm sugar glaze for a shiny finish. Sprinkle toasted coconut, colorful sprinkles, or edible flowers over the glaze while it’s still wet.
Add Ribbons (Optional):
Once the decorations set, thread ribbons through the holes to create medal-like cookies, perfect for presentation or gifting.
Tips for a Bali-Style Presentation
Banana Leaf Base: Serve the Medal Cookies on a platter lined with fresh banana leaves. Trim the leaves into decorative shapes such as stars or circles for a festive touch.
Balinese Garnishes: Surround the cookies with vibrant Balinese garnishes like dragon fruit slices, marigold petals, or pandan leaves to enhance the tropical aesthetic.
Local Flair: Incorporate woven Balinese baskets or small wooden trays for a more authentic presentation. These can double as serving plates or gifting containers.
Interactive Toppings: Provide kids with small bowls of grated coconut, crushed peanuts, and colorful sprinkles so they can customize their cookies, turning it into an engaging activity.
Coconut Bowls for Glaze: Serve additional palm sugar glaze in mini coconut shell bowls for an extra layer of dipping fun.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 12 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 4 (Kid-sized portions)
Calories Per Serving: 220 kcal
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories
220kcal
Fat
10g (6g saturated fat)
Cholesterol
20mg
Sodium
30mg
Carbohydrates
30g (12g sugars, 1g fiber)
Protein
2g
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 50,000 – 70,000
FAQs About Medal Cookies in Bali
Q1: Can I use pandan leaves for added flavor in this recipe?
A: Yes, blending pandan leaves into the dough will infuse a mild, sweet aroma that complements the tropical theme.
Q2: Where can I find palm sugar syrup in Bali?
A: Palm sugar syrup is widely available in local markets and supermarkets in Bali. Look for natural, unprocessed options for the best flavor.
Q3: What are other traditional Balinese toppings for cookies?
A: Crushed cashews, toasted sesame seeds, or finely grated ginger can add a unique Balinese twist to your Medal Cookies.
Q4: How do I store these cookies in Bali’s humid weather?
A: Place the cookies in an airtight container with a silica gel pack to maintain crispness and prevent them from softening.