Empire Biscuits Recipe
Overview:
Empire Biscuits, also known as “Cookies” in some regions, are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. This recipe, reminiscent of shortbread, demands a slow oven to ensure the biscuits bake to perfection without crumbling. With a total preparation and cooking time of just 55 minutes, you’ll have a batch of these sweet delights ready to enjoy in no time.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Recipe Category: Dessert
- Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, Cookie & Brownie, Grains, European, Low Protein, Kid Friendly, Potluck, < 60 Mins, Oven, Beginner Cook, Easy, Inexpensive
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 2422.5
- Fat Content: 140.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 87.8g
- Cholesterol Content: 365.7mg
- Sodium Content: 984.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 268.3g
- Fiber Content: 6.5g
- Sugar Content: 85.7g
- Protein Content: 26.2g
Ingredients:
- 8 cups plain flour
- 3 cups caster sugar
- 6 cups butter
- Cherries (for decoration)
Recipe Yield:
1 batch of biscuits
Recipe Instructions:
-
Mix flour and sugar in a bowl: Start by combining the plain flour and caster sugar in a large mixing bowl. The caster sugar adds a delicate sweetness to the biscuits while the flour provides structure.
-
Rub in the butter: Cut the butter into small cubes and add it to the flour-sugar mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This step is essential for achieving that crumbly texture characteristic of shortbread.
-
Knead well to form a smooth paste: Once the butter is evenly distributed, use your hands to knead the mixture into a smooth, cohesive dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to tough biscuits.
-
Roll out to about ¼-inch thickness: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of approximately ¼ inch. This thickness will yield biscuits that are neither too thin nor too thick, ensuring a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness.
-
Cut out round shapes with pastry cutters: Using round pastry cutters of your desired size, cut out individual biscuit rounds from the rolled-out dough. Place the cut-out biscuits onto a greased baking tray, leaving a small gap between each one to allow for expansion during baking.
-
Cook in a slow oven: Preheat your oven to a slow temperature of 300°-325°F (150°-160°C). Slow baking is crucial for these biscuits, as it ensures they cook evenly and develop a firm, golden-brown exterior without becoming overly crisp or dry. Bake the biscuits for approximately 30 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and firm to the touch.
-
Sandwich with jam: Once the biscuits have cooled completely, pair them up to create sandwich cookies. Spread a generous layer of strawberry or raspberry jam onto the bottom side of one biscuit, then gently press another biscuit on top to form a sandwich.
-
Decorate with icing and cherries: For the finishing touch, adorn the top of each sandwich biscuit with a dollop of icing and half a cherry. The icing adds a touch of sweetness and decorative flair, while the cherry adds a burst of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Empire Biscuits are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. Serve them at parties, gatherings, or simply keep a batch on hand for whenever a sweet craving strikes. These biscuits also make lovely homemade gifts for friends and family.
Storage Tips:
Store the Empire Biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If desired, you can freeze the biscuits for longer-term storage. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw frozen biscuits at room temperature before serving.
Enjoy Your Homemade Empire Biscuits!
With their buttery richness, delicate sweetness, and charming appearance, these Empire Biscuits are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed as a midday snack, a dessert, or a special treat for loved ones, these delightful cookies are bound to bring smiles to all who indulge in them. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a baking adventure that’s as rewarding as it is delicious! 🍪✨
