Traditional Thai Cookie Recipes

Traditional Thai cookies, or "khanom," are a delightful treat that showcases the unique flavors and textures of Thai cuisine. These cookies are not only delicious but also a reflection of the rich culinary heritage of Thailand. In this article, we will explore some popular traditional Thai cookie recipes that you can easily prepare at home.

1. Thai Coconut Cookies (Khanom Gluay)

Thai Coconut Cookies, known as Khanom Gluay, are a sweet and aromatic dessert made from simple ingredients. The combination of coconut and banana gives these cookies a moist and chewy texture.

Ingredients: 1 cup ripe mashed bananas, 1 cup shredded coconut, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 cup butter (softened).
Instructions: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, shredded coconut, sugar, and softened butter. Mix well. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well combined. Scoop spoonfuls of the batter onto a greased baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

2. Thai Mung Bean Cookies (Khanom Tua Puk)

Khanom Tua Puk is a delightful Thai mung bean cookie that is both sweet and nutty. Made primarily from mung beans, this cookie is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.

Ingredients: 1 cup cooked mung beans, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup coconut milk, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 tsp salt, banana leaves for wrapping.
Instructions: First, mash the cooked mung beans until smooth. Combine them with sugar, coconut milk, flour, and salt in a bowl. Mix until the dough is soft. Cut the banana leaves into small squares and wrap a spoonful of dough in each, folding the leaves tightly. Steam the wrapped cookies for about 20-30 minutes until firm.

3. Thai Peanut Cookies

Thai Peanut Cookies are a crunchy and flavorful treat that highlights the rich taste of peanuts. These cookies are perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings.

Ingredients: 1 cup roasted peanuts (crushed), 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup butter (softened), 1/4 tsp baking soda, a pinch of salt.
Instructions: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the crushed peanuts, flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Shape the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

4. Thai Rice Flour Cookies (Khanom Bueng)

Khanom Bueng are rice flour cookies that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often filled with coconut cream or sweet toppings.

Ingredients: 1 cup rice flour, 1/2 cup coconut milk, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/2 cup coconut cream (for filling).
Instructions: In a bowl, mix the rice flour, coconut milk, sugar, and salt until a smooth batter forms. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour in a spoonful of the batter, creating a thin pancake. Cook until the edges start to lift, then add a small spoonful of coconut cream in the center. Fold the pancake over and cook for another minute before serving hot.

Conclusion

Traditional Thai cookies are a wonderful way to explore the flavors of Thailand in your own kitchen. These recipes are not only simple to prepare but also provide a taste of the culture and traditions that make Thai cuisine so unique. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress!