Mouthwatering Pandan Cookies: A Tropical Twist on Tradition

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something wonderful about the first bite of a soft, chewy cookie that transports you straight to a sunny paradise. These Pandan Cookies do just that, with their vibrant green hue and mouthwatering fusion of flavors that blend nostalgia with a modern twist. As I took my first nibble, the unmistakable aroma of pandan extract, reminiscent of sweet vanilla and fresh coconut, enveloped me, reminding me of tropical getaways and lazy beach days.

What makes these cookies truly special is their ease they re ready to bake in just 10 minutes! Perfect for those moments when you want to impress friends or family without the fuss, they serve as delightful holiday treats or simply a joyous addition to an afternoon tea. Each bite offers a delightful chewiness, making them not just a feast for your taste buds, but a feast for the eyes, too. Let s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that takes a classic sugar cookie and gives it an enchanting Asian twist!

Why are Pandan Cookies so irresistible?

Irresistible Flavor: The unique pandan extract imparts a captivating taste that s both sweet and floral, unlike any cookie you ve tried before.
Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch that impresses with minimal effort.
Vibrant Appearance: Their striking green color adds a fun twist to your dessert table, making them perfect for gatherings.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with ingredients like shredded coconut, or swap it for nuts to suit your preference.
Perfect Chewiness: Enjoy the delightful texture of soft, chewy cookies that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These cookies are a delightful fusion that bridges cultures, making them a hit with everyone from family to friends.

Pandan Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• All-purpose flour Provides structure and base for the cookie; avoid substitutions for best results.
• Baking soda Acts as a leavening agent to help the cookies rise; always check freshness for optimal outcomes.
• Salt Enhances overall flavor; essential for balancing the sweetness in your Pandan Cookies.
• Unsalted butter Contributes richness and moisture; ensure it s at room temperature for better mixing.
• Granulated sugar Sweetens the dough and helps create a crisp exterior; consider alternatives carefully as they may change the texture.
• Light brown sugar Adds depth of flavor and moisture; you can use dark brown sugar for a more robust taste.
• Egg Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; for a vegan version, swap with a flax egg.
• Vanilla extract Enhances flavor complexity; while you can omit it, I highly recommend keeping it in.
• Pandan extract The star of the show, giving your cookies their signature flavor; opt for high-quality pandan extract for the best results.
• Shredded coconut Adds texture and tropical flair; you can omit this or substitute with toasted coconut for a different twist.

For Rolling

• Granulated sugar Coats the cookie balls to create a delightful, crisp exterior while adding sweetness.

Embrace the joy of baking with these Pandan Cookies, a truly delightful treat that s as fun to make as they are to eat!

How to Make Pandan Cookies

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure even distribution for a perfect cookie base. Set aside for later use.

2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, cream the unsalted butter with granulated sugar and light brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes, creating a lovely, airy texture.

3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the egg to the creamed mixture and mix until fully incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and pandan extract for that unmistakable flavor.

4. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.

5. Fold in Coconut: Carefully fold in the shredded coconut until it s evenly distributed throughout the dough. The coconut adds a delightful texture and sweetness to every bite.

6. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour. This step helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle.

7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (177 °C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

8. Shape the Cookies: Scoop the dough and roll it into balls, then coat each ball in granulated sugar. This will add a beautiful crystallized finish to your cookies.

9. Bake Your Cookies: Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 12-14 minutes. The edges should be slightly brown while the centers remain soft.

10. Cool Down: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting time helps them set perfectly.

Optional: Enjoy them fresh with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Pandan Cookies?

Indulge in the delightful sweetness of these tropical treats while elevating your meal with delectable pairings.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the chewy cookies sweetness, enhancing every bite.

• Coconut Milk Ice Cream: Creamy and rich, this icy treat mirrors the flavors of the cookies while providing a cool, luscious contrast to their texture.

• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai perfectly balance the cookie s sweetness, creating a cozy pairing that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

• Matcha Latte: The earthy notes and slight bitterness of a matcha latte harmonize beautifully with the pandan sweetness, making for an enchanting afternoon treat.

• Mango Sticky Rice: This classic dessert complements the pandan cookies with its creamy coconut and juicy mango, taking your taste buds on an exotic journey.

• Sweetened Coconut Flan: The smooth and creamy texture of flan offers a delightful contrast to the chewy cookies, enhancing the overall tropical theme of your dessert table.

• Lemon Tea: A zesty cup of lemon tea cuts through the sweetness of the cookies, bringing brightness and a refreshing finish after each bite.

• Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate adds a decadent touch to the cookies, making them an irresistible dessert for chocolate lovers.

Pandan Cookies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize these delightful cookies with these fun twists!

• Nuts: Swap shredded coconut for toasted chopped almonds or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture.

• Chocolate: Add chocolate chips for a sweet contrast that elevates the flavor of pandan. The rich chocolate harmonizes beautifully with the cookie s soft, chewy nature.

• Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or lime zest for a refreshing zing that complements the pandan flavor. Just a teaspoon of zest can brighten the overall taste.

• Dried Fruits: Mix in chopped dried mango or pineapple to enhance the tropical vibe and add a chewy sweetness.

• Spiced Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon to warm up the flavors and create a cozy twist.

• Vegan-Friendly: Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use vegan butter to create a completely plant-based treat without sacrificing flavor.

• Coconut Flare: For a richer coconut experience, replace regular shredded coconut with toasted coconut flakes or coconut flour.

• Extra Pandan: Craving that pandan essence? Increase the amount of pandan extract to take the flavor to new levels, creating a more intense and fragrant cookie.

These variations will make your Pandan Cookies a new favorite, whether you re sharing with family or enjoying solo! Enjoy crafting them to your taste!

Expert Tips for Perfect Pandan Cookies

• Minimal Mixing: Mix the dough minimally after adding dry ingredients to avoid tough cookies. This ensures your pandan cookies remain soft and chewy.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least an hour helps control melting butter, creating thicker cookies that hold their shape during baking.
• Use Quality Extracts: Always opt for high-quality pandan extract to achieve the best flavor in your cookies. This will elevate the overall taste and aroma.
• Ensure Freshness: Check that your baking soda is fresh for optimal rise; stale baking soda can lead to flat cookies.
• Store Properly: Keep your cooled pandan cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 6 months for future enjoyment.

How to Store and Freeze Pandan Cookies

Fridge: Store your pandan cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 6 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300 °F (150 °C) for a few minutes until heated through.

Dough Storage: You can also refrigerate the cookie dough for up to a week before baking; just let it sit at room temperature for a short time if it s too firm to scoop.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft & Chewy Pandan Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This helps maintain the cookies delightful texture and ensures maximum freshness. For even longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. When you re ready to indulge, scoop and roll the chilled dough into balls, coat them in sugar, and bake for 12-14 minutes. This way, you can enjoy fresh, delicious Pandan Cookies with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Pandan Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of pandan extract should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! I recommend using high-quality pandan extract for the best flavor. Look for extracts that are vibrant green and have a strong, sweet aroma. This will ensure that your cookies truly capture the unique essence of pandan, enhancing both the taste and fragrance of your delicious treats.

How should I store my Pandan Cookies?
To keep your pandan cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture, making sure each bite is just as delightful as the first!

Can I freeze Pandan Cookies, and if so, how?
Very! You can certainly freeze your pandan cookies. First, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 6 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300 °F (150 °C) for a few minutes until heated through.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too wet or sticky?
If your cookie dough is too wet or sticky, it could be due to variations in ingredient measurements or humidity. To remedy this, you can gradually mix in a little more all-purpose flour, about 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach a manageable consistency. Just be careful not to overmix, as that could make your cookies tough.

Are these Pandan Cookies vegan-friendly?
Ironically, they aren t vegan as they contain an egg. However, you can easily make them vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens to use as a binding agent in your cookie dough. This alternative works wonderfully to maintain the chewy texture of your cookies!