Spooky Halloween Cookies Kids Love in Bali, Indonesia
Discover the magic of baking with your kids by creating spooky Halloween cookies infused with Bali’s unique flavors and tropical charm.
Perfect for families visiting or living in Bali, this recipe combines local ingredients with kid-friendly fun to make the season unforgettable.
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What are Halloween Cookies?
Halloween cookies are decorative and festive treats traditionally made to celebrate the spooky season.
Adding a Bali twist brings an exciting tropical flair, making them extra special for kids to enjoy.
Balinese Inspiration for Halloween Cookies
This recipe draws from Bali’s rich culinary heritage, featuring local ingredients like coconut sugar, pandan extract, and fresh spices.
These elements create a unique and flavorful experience while keeping the cookies visually spooky and festive.
Ingredients for Bali-Inspired Halloween Cookies (Serves 4 Kids)

For the Cookies:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp pandan extract
1/4 tsp baking soda
A pinch of salt
For the Decorations:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
Natural food coloring (black, orange, green)
Coconut flakes for texture
Chocolate chips and raisins for spooky designs
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Halloween Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, sift together flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt to ensure even mixing.
In another bowl, cream the butter using a hand or stand mixer until it is light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and pandan extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until the dough comes together smoothly, avoiding overmixing.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps enhance the flavors and makes it easier to handle.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use Halloween-themed cookie cutters like bats, pumpkins, or ghosts to shape the cookies.
Arrange the cookies on the baking tray, leaving enough space between them to expand slightly while baking.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. For extra crispness, leave the cookies in the oven for an additional minute.
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
Step 3: Decorate the Cookies
Prepare the icing by combining powdered sugar and fresh lime juice in a small bowl. Mix until smooth. Divide the icing into separate bowls and add natural food coloring.
Use small piping bags or toothpicks for detailed decoration. Create spooky faces, patterns, or tropical-themed designs inspired by Bali.
Sprinkle coconut flakes for added texture and use chocolate chips or raisins to create eyes or other accents.
Allow the icing to dry completely before serving or storing the cookies.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Presentation
Banana Leaf Base: Use fresh banana leaves as a natural and authentic serving platter. Trim the leaves to fit your tray and wipe them clean with a damp cloth.
Edible Flowers: Garnish the cookies with edible Balinese flowers such as marigolds or frangipani. Place a small flower next to each cookie for added vibrancy.
Clay Serving Trays: Present the cookies on traditional Balinese clay plates or woven bamboo trays to reflect the island’s cultural essence.
Layered Display: Arrange the cookies in layers, separated by banana leaves, to create a stunning, tiered presentation.
Balinese Motif Accents: Add small decorative elements like mini umbrellas or wooden carvings around the serving area for a festive touch.
Serve with Balinese Tea: Pair the cookies with a pot of local Balinese tea, such as rosella or lemongrass, for a complete experience.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 4 kid-sized portions
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 60,000-80,000 (Approx. $4-$5.50 USD)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 220 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Sodium: 120mg
Cholesterol: 25mg
Calories
220 kcal
Fat
8g
Cholestrol
25mg
Sodium
120mg
Carbohydrates
35g
Protein
3g
FAQs about Halloween Cookies in Bali
Q1: Can I substitute pandan extract with other local flavors?
A: Yes, you can use vanilla bean paste or Balinese vanilla extract for a unique twist while maintaining a tropical essence.
Q2: Are there any local customs to follow when sharing these cookies in Bali?
A: Offering food to family or neighbors is a cherished tradition in Bali. Present these cookies in small woven baskets as a friendly gesture.
Q3: Can I use fresh coconut milk instead of butter in the recipe?
A: While coconut milk adds a distinct flavor, it’s best used as an icing ingredient to retain the cookie’s texture.
Q4: How can I make these cookies festive for Balinese celebrations?
A: Incorporate Balinese motifs such as intricate batik patterns into the icing design or serve them during local festivals alongside traditional snacks.