Mary Berry Butter Biscuits Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re a fan of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats, Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are an absolute must-try!

These biscuits are the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, with just the right balance of sweetness and richness. Mary Berry, with her years of baking expertise, has created a recipe that’s easy to follow and produces a delightful result every time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a delicious snack, these butter biscuits are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire!

Mary Berry Butter Biscuits Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are a classic, simple, and irresistibly delicious treat that require a short list of quality ingredients. These ingredients come together to create a rich, melt-in-the-mouth biscuit, with a balance of buttery flavor and delicate texture. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:

1. Butter (unsalted) – The star ingredient in these biscuits, butter provides the rich flavor and crumbly texture that make these biscuits so delicious. It’s best to use room-temperature butter for easy mixing and even distribution throughout the dough. Unsalted butter ensures you have full control over the salt content.

2. Caster Sugar – A fine form of sugar that dissolves easily, giving the biscuits their subtle sweetness without creating any graininess. Caster sugar ensures a smoother dough, and when baked, it helps create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

3. Plain Flour – The primary dry ingredient for structure. Plain flour is used instead of self-raising flour since the biscuits are not meant to rise dramatically. It provides the right balance of softness and stability needed for a tender biscuit. Sifting the flour helps prevent any lumps and ensures a smooth dough.

4. Cornflour (optional) – Some variations of Mary Berry’s butter biscuits include cornflour, which helps create an even finer, more delicate texture. It makes the biscuit almost melt away on your tongue, adding to its lightness.

5. Vanilla Extract – A small splash of vanilla extract provides a deep, aromatic undertone that enhances the flavor profile of the biscuits. It is optional, but highly recommended to elevate the biscuit’s taste and add warmth.

6. Egg Yolk – While some biscuit recipes rely on whole eggs, Mary Berry’s recipe uses just the egg yolk. The yolk helps bind the ingredients together while contributing to the biscuit’s rich texture and color.

7. Pinch of Salt – A tiny amount of salt in the dough helps balance the sweetness and enhances the buttery flavor. It also works to bring out the other flavors and ensures that the biscuits are not overly sweet.

Equipment Needed

For making Mary Berry’s butter biscuits, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly and the result is perfect.

1. Mixing Bowl – A large mixing bowl is necessary to combine the ingredients. Since the dough needs to be kneaded and shaped, a roomy bowl will give you space to work with.

2. Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer – While you can mix everything by hand, an electric mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment makes the job quicker and easier. It helps cream the butter and sugar together smoothly, ensuring the ingredients are well incorporated.

3. Sifter – A sifter is essential to ensure that the flour and any other dry ingredients are free from lumps. Sifting helps the ingredients blend more easily and creates a smoother, lighter texture for the biscuits.

4. Rolling Pin – For rolling out the dough, a rolling pin is necessary. It helps you achieve a consistent thickness for your biscuits and makes the task more manageable. You can use a light dusting of flour on your work surface to prevent sticking.

5. Cookie Cutters – Whether you prefer round, square, or any other shape, a set of cookie cutters is ideal for shaping your biscuits. It ensures uniform biscuits that bake evenly.

6. Baking Tray – A flat, sturdy baking tray is essential for evenly baking your biscuits. You can line the tray with baking parchment or a silicone baking mat to ensure the biscuits do not stick and bake evenly.

7. Cooling Rack – After baking, it’s important to cool the biscuits on a rack. This allows air to circulate around the biscuits, preventing them from becoming soggy on the bottom.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits

Making Mary Berry’s butter biscuits is a simple yet satisfying process. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to ensure success:

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Tray – Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan), or 350°F. Line your baking tray with baking parchment or a silicone baking mat to prevent the biscuits from sticking.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar – Begin by placing the softened butter and caster sugar into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on a medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air into the butter, giving your biscuits a tender texture.

3. Add the Egg Yolk and Vanilla – Beat the egg yolk and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

4. Sift the Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, sift the plain flour (and cornflour, if using) along with the pinch of salt. Sifting ensures there are no lumps and helps create a smooth dough.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients – Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Stir using a spatula or mixer on a low speed until the dough starts to come together. You may need to use your hands towards the end to bring the dough into a ball. The dough should be firm but pliable.

6. Roll the Dough – Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 0.5 cm (around ¼ inch). The dough should be firm enough to hold its shape, but still soft enough to be rolled easily.

7. Cut Out the Biscuits – Use your cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough. Gather the remaining dough, roll it out again, and continue cutting until all the dough is used up.

8. Bake the Biscuits – Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking tray, ensuring that the biscuits are spaced evenly apart. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

9. Cool the Biscuits – Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool on the tray for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips

To ensure your butter biscuits turn out as perfect as Mary Berry’s, here are a few expert tips:

1. Use Room Temperature Butter – Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Room temperature butter mixes much more easily into the dough, ensuring a smooth and uniform texture.

2. Chill the Dough (Optional) – If the dough becomes too soft to handle, you can wrap it in cling film and chill it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before rolling it out. Chilling the dough helps the biscuits hold their shape during baking and prevents spreading.

3. Don’t Overmix the Dough – Once the flour is added, avoid overmixing the dough. Overworking it can result in tougher biscuits. Stir gently and stop once the dough comes together.

4. Watch the Baking Time – Biscuits bake quickly, so keep an eye on them. You want them to be lightly golden around the edges, not brown. Every oven is different, so it’s best to check a minute or two before the suggested time.

5. Decorate or Serve with a Dusting of Sugar – For a little extra flair, you can dust your cooled biscuits with a light sprinkling of caster sugar. Alternatively, dip them in melted chocolate for an extra indulgence.

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are an ultimate treat for any occasion. With their crisp edges, soft centers, and buttery flavor, these biscuits embody simplicity and elegance in every bite.

By following a few straightforward steps, and using high-quality ingredients, you can create these delicious biscuits at home. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or serve them as part of a larger spread, they are sure to delight.

With the expert tips provided, you can easily perfect the recipe and elevate these biscuits to an art form. So, get your baking supplies ready, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a batch of Mary Berry’s irresistible butter biscuits!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits

Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits are beloved for their simplicity, delicate texture, and rich, buttery flavor. While the classic version is always a hit, there are several easy and delicious variations you can try to give your biscuits a unique twist. Let’s explore some of the options:

1. Citrus Zest Butter Biscuits:

Add a touch of freshness by incorporating citrus zest-lemon, orange, or lime. The zesty notes will cut through the richness of the butter and give the biscuits a refreshing lift.

Simply grate the zest of one lemon (or your preferred citrus) into the dough before mixing. This slight alteration adds a subtle yet bright flavor, perfect for pairing with afternoon tea.

2. Almond Butter Biscuits:

For a nutty variation, consider adding ground almonds or almond extract to the dough. Almonds pair perfectly with the rich, buttery flavor, and a dash of almond extract will infuse the biscuits with a warm, aromatic fragrance. You can also press slivered almonds into the tops of each biscuit before baking for a delightful crunch and extra texture.

3. Chocolate Chip Butter Biscuits:

Who doesn’t love the combination of buttery biscuit dough and gooey chocolate?

You can transform Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits into a more indulgent treat by folding in some chocolate chips or chunks. Dark, milk, or white chocolate all work beautifully-just be sure to adjust the amount depending on how sweet or rich you want the biscuits to be. This variation is especially loved by kids (and adults, let’s be honest!).

4. Spiced Butter Biscuits:

For a warm, comforting twist, try adding a blend of ground spices to the dough. Cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of ginger can add depth to the flavor and give the biscuits a cozy, autumnal feel.

Just a teaspoon of cinnamon or a half teaspoon of nutmeg will work wonders without overpowering the butter’s richness. This variation is perfect for the colder months or during the holiday season.

5. Savory Butter Biscuits:

If you want to go beyond the sweetness, savory butter biscuits are a fantastic option. Incorporate herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage into the dough.

You can even sprinkle some finely grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. These savory biscuits are perfect to serve with a cheese platter, a bowl of soup, or as a side to a hearty meal.

6. Raspberry Jam Butter Biscuits:

For a fruity twist, why not create a jam-filled version of Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits?

After cutting out the dough, press a small well in the center of each biscuit and fill it with a teaspoon of raspberry jam (or your favorite jam). When baked, the jam will bubble slightly, adding a delicious fruitiness that contrasts with the buttery base. These biscuits are like mini jam tarts and make a delightful treat for any occasion.

7. Coconut Butter Biscuits:

For a tropical variation, fold shredded coconut into the dough. The coconut adds both texture and a hint of sweetness, making the biscuits even more indulgent.

You can also sprinkle some coconut on top of the biscuits before baking for a golden, toasted finish. The result is a subtly sweet and rich biscuit that’s perfect for pairing with a cup of hot tea.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

After baking a batch of Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits, it’s inevitable that you might have a few left over. To ensure that they remain as fresh and delicious as when they first came out of the oven, it’s important to store them properly. Here are some best practices for storing your butter biscuits:

1. Let Biscuits Cool Completely:

Before storing, allow the biscuits to cool completely on a wire rack. This helps to prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the biscuits soggy.

2. Use an Airtight Container:

For optimal freshness, store your butter biscuits in an airtight container. This helps preserve their crisp texture and prevents them from absorbing any moisture from the air.

A cookie jar or plastic storage container with a tight-fitting lid is ideal for this purpose. If you plan to store them for a longer period, consider layering the biscuits between sheets of parchment paper to avoid them sticking together.

3. Store in a Cool, Dry Place:

Place the airtight container in a cool, dry area of your kitchen, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. A pantry or kitchen cupboard is perfect. Avoid storing biscuits in the fridge, as this can cause them to lose their crispiness and become stale more quickly.

4. Freezing Butter Biscuits:

If you have a large batch of butter biscuits that you won’t finish within a few days, freezing them is a great option. To freeze, arrange the cooled biscuits in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for a couple of hours.

Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature. You can also pop them into a preheated oven for a few minutes to refresh them and restore some of their crispiness.

5. Reheating Leftover Biscuits:

To revive the texture of any leftover biscuits, place them in an oven set to a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This helps restore some of the buttery flakiness without drying them out. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the biscuits soft and chewy, losing their delightful crunch.

What Goes Well With Butter Biscuits

Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits are versatile treats that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re serving them as part of an afternoon tea, a snack, or a dessert, here are some ideas for what goes well with these delightful biscuits:

1. Tea and Coffee:

One of the most classic pairings with butter biscuits is a cup of tea or coffee. The light, crumbly texture of the biscuits pairs beautifully with a warm beverage.

For tea, choose a light blend such as Earl Grey or Darjeeling, which won’t overwhelm the delicate flavors of the biscuits. A smooth coffee or cappuccino works equally well, offering a contrast to the sweetness of the biscuits.

2. Fruit Jam or Preserves:

The rich, buttery flavor of the biscuits complements the sweetness of fruit jams or preserves. Strawberry, raspberry, or apricot jam are all fantastic options. You can spread a thin layer of jam on each biscuit for a delightful contrast of flavors, or even serve them alongside a jar of jam for guests to add themselves.

3. Whipped Cream or Clotted Cream:

For a more indulgent experience, pair the biscuits with freshly whipped cream or clotted cream. The richness of the cream complements the buttery texture of the biscuits, making for a truly decadent treat. This is especially delightful for a more extravagant afternoon tea or dessert.

4. Cheese:

Though typically associated with savory dishes, butter biscuits can also be paired with cheese for a unique flavor experience. Soft cheeses such as brie or goat cheese work particularly well, as their creamy texture pairs nicely with the crumbly texture of the biscuits. Add a drizzle of honey or a few slices of pear for a sophisticated combination.

5. Fresh Fruit:

For a lighter pairing, serve your butter biscuits alongside fresh fruit. Sliced berries, peaches, or apples create a refreshing contrast to the richness of the biscuits. The sweet and slightly tart flavors of the fruit provide a refreshing balance to the butteriness of the biscuits.

6. Chocolate or Nut Butters:

For a more decadent treat, try pairing your butter biscuits with melted chocolate or nut butter. A simple chocolate ganache, a spread of peanut butter, or almond butter creates a deliciously rich combination that elevates the biscuit experience to something indulgent and satisfying.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits are a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out one of the many easy variations, these biscuits are sure to delight.

Their buttery texture and subtle sweetness make them versatile enough to pair with a wide variety of accompaniments, from tea and jam to creamy cheeses and fresh fruit. By following best practices for storage, you can enjoy these biscuits fresh for several days or even freeze them for later enjoyment. Whether you’re hosting an elegant tea party or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack, butter biscuits are always a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

FAQs

What Are Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits?

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are a simple, classic British treat made with butter, flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. They have a delicate, crumbly texture and a rich buttery flavor, making them a perfect accompaniment to tea or coffee.

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits Recipe?

To make Mary Berry’s butter biscuits, you will need unsalted butter, caster sugar, plain flour, cornflour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The ingredients are simple and easily available at most grocery stores.

Can I Use Salted Butter In Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits Recipe?

It is recommended to use unsalted butter for Mary Berry’s butter biscuits to control the amount of salt in the recipe. However, if you only have salted butter, you can use it, but be sure to omit or reduce the pinch of salt the recipe calls for.

How Do I Achieve The Perfect Crumbly Texture For Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits?

The key to getting the perfect crumbly texture is to not overwork the dough. Mix the ingredients gently until they just come together. Overworking the dough can result in biscuits that are tough, rather than light and crumbly.

Can I Add Flavor Variations To Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits?

Yes, you can customize the flavor of Mary Berry’s butter biscuits by adding ingredients such as lemon zest, orange zest, or ground cinnamon. You could also try adding a few drops of almond extract for a subtle almond flavor.

How Long Should I Bake Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits?

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits typically take around 10-12 minutes to bake at 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Keep an eye on them as they bake-they should turn golden brown around the edges when done.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits In Advance?

Yes, Mary Berry’s butter biscuits can be made in advance. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to a month if you’d like to prepare them ahead of time.

What Type Of Flour Should I Use For Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits?

The recipe calls for plain flour, also known as all-purpose flour in some countries. This provides the ideal texture and structure for the biscuits. Avoid using self-raising flour, as it could alter the final result.

How Can I Shape Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits?

To shape Mary Berry’s butter biscuits, roll the dough out to about 5mm thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use a cookie cutter to cut out your desired shapes. You can use any shape you like, from round to more festive shapes like stars or hearts.

How Can I Tell When Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits Are Ready To Come Out Of The Oven?

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are ready when they are lightly golden around the edges. They may appear slightly soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool. Be careful not to overbake, as this can cause them to become too hard.