Mary Berry Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’ve never tried Mary Berry’s ginger oat crunch biscuits, you’re in for a treat!

This recipe combines the perfect balance of warming ginger with the comforting crunch of oats, making for an irresistible biscuit that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they’re also wonderfully versatile-great for a cozy afternoon tea, a snack, or even a thoughtful homemade gift. Plus, with Mary Berry’s expert touch, you can be sure these biscuits will turn out perfectly every time. So why not give them a try and add a little bit of her baking magic to your kitchen?

Mary Berry Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and a few key ingredients that will infuse these biscuits with flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Butter (unsalted) – 125g

   The butter provides the rich, soft texture that is crucial for any biscuit. It’s best to use unsalted butter, as it allows you to control the seasoning and balances well with the spices in the recipe.

2. Caster Sugar – 100g

   Caster sugar is ideal for baking as it dissolves quickly, giving the biscuits a smooth sweetness. This sugar creates a slightly crisp texture around the edges of the biscuits, enhancing the crunchiness.

3. Golden Syrup – 2 tbsp

   Golden syrup is a key ingredient in many British baked goods, offering a distinct flavor and a bit of moisture to the dough. It also helps the biscuits to crisp up nicely during baking.

4. Plain Flour – 150g

   The backbone of any biscuit dough, plain flour contributes structure without making the biscuits too dense. It combines with the other ingredients to create a light, crumbly texture.

5. Baking Powder – 1 tsp

   A small amount of baking powder ensures the biscuits rise slightly, giving them a lighter texture, while still maintaining a satisfyingly crunchy bite.

6. Ground Ginger – 2 tsp

   The star spice of the recipe, ground ginger adds warmth, a little heat, and depth of flavor. It’s the perfect complement to the oats and the golden syrup, bringing a touch of spice that defines the "ginger" aspect of these biscuits.

7. Ground Cinnamon – 1 tsp

   A teaspoon of ground cinnamon adds a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the ginger. It gives the biscuits a deeper, aromatic flavor, creating a wonderful balance between the spices.

8. Oats – 150g

   Rolled oats are essential in this recipe to give the biscuits their signature crunch. Oats not only add texture but also a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness and spices, contributing to the "oat crunch" in the name.

9. Salt – A pinch

   Salt is used sparingly but helps to bring out the sweetness and flavors of the other ingredients. It also helps to balance the rich spices and creates an overall harmonious taste.

10. Milk – 2-3 tbsp

    A splash of milk is added to bring the dough together and help with the consistency. It’s important not to add too much, as you want the dough to remain firm enough to hold its shape when baked.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment that will help streamline the process and ensure perfect results.

1. Mixing Bowl

   A large mixing bowl is necessary for combining the dry and wet ingredients. It’s best to use a bowl that gives you plenty of room to work with the dough, especially when you start mixing the oats and flour.

2. Electric Mixer or Wooden Spoon

   While you can certainly mix everything by hand, using an electric mixer can speed up the process and make the creaming of the butter and sugar smoother. If you prefer a more traditional approach, a wooden spoon works just as well for combining the ingredients.

3. Measuring Cups and Spoons

   Accurate measurements are key to baking success, and using proper measuring spoons and cups ensures that each ingredient is used in the right proportion. This will help you achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your biscuits.

4. Baking Tray

   You’ll need a sturdy baking tray to place the biscuits on for baking. Be sure to line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even browning.

5. Cookie Scoop or Spoon

   A cookie scoop allows you to portion out uniform amounts of dough for consistent biscuit sizes, but a regular spoon works too. This ensures the biscuits bake evenly and all have the same texture.

6. Cooling Rack

   After baking, it’s important to let the biscuits cool completely on a wire cooling rack. This helps them set properly and prevents them from becoming soggy as they cool down.

7. Sieve

   A fine sieve is useful for sifting the dry ingredients together, which helps prevent clumps and ensures that the flour and spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits

Making Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits is a simple, step-by-step process that rewards you with deliciously spiced, crunchy treats. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Oven and Tray

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens), or 350°F (320°F for fan ovens). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure the biscuits won’t stick during baking.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

   In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. You can do this with an electric mixer on medium speed or with a wooden spoon if you’re looking for a more hands-on experience. This process should take about 3-5 minutes, and it creates the base for the biscuit dough.

3. Add the Wet Ingredients

   To the creamed butter and sugar mixture, add the golden syrup and mix until everything is well incorporated. The golden syrup not only adds sweetness but also contributes a touch of moisture to the dough, making it easier to form.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients

   In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour, baking powder, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Sifting ensures that the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed, which will prevent any lumps in the dough.

5. Add the Oats

   Stir the dry ingredients into the butter and sugar mixture. Once the flour mixture is incorporated, fold in the oats. The oats will add texture and crunch to the biscuits, so make sure they are evenly mixed through the dough.

6. Shape the Dough

   Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, portion out spoonfuls of the dough and roll them into small balls, about the size of a walnut. Place them on the prepared baking tray, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

7. Flatten the Dough

   Gently flatten each dough ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers to form a round biscuit shape. This step helps to ensure even baking and gives the biscuits their signature crunchy, thin texture.

8. Bake the Biscuits

   Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time, as ovens vary, and you don’t want them to overbake.

9. Cool the Biscuits

   Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the biscuits to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. They will firm up as they cool, achieving the perfect crunchy texture.

Expert Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Butter

   Ensure that the butter is at room temperature before you start mixing. This makes it easier to cream the butter with the sugar, helping to create a lighter texture in the finished biscuits.

2. Adjust the Spice Levels

   If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, feel free to increase the amount of ground ginger in the recipe. You can also experiment with other spices, like cloves or nutmeg, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

3. Don’t Overmix

   When adding the flour and oats, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can make the biscuits tough. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients and form a dough.

4. Chill the Dough for Extra Crispness

   If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the biscuits hold their shape better during baking, leading to a more defined crunch and less spread.

5. Store Properly

   These biscuits store well in an airtight container for up to a week. For maximum freshness, store them in a cool, dry place. If you want to extend their shelf life, they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits are a perfect balance of warm spices, crunchy oats, and buttery sweetness. The recipe is straightforward yet results in beautifully crisp and flavorful biscuits that are perfect for a teatime treat or a midday snack.

The combination of ingredients-especially the ground ginger and oats-provides an irresistible texture and flavor, while the expert tips ensure you can perfect the recipe every time. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these biscuits are sure to impress and quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits

Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits are already a delightful treat, with their perfect balance of chewy oats and spicy, aromatic ginger. However, there are several easy variations that you can make to give these biscuits a new twist. These changes not only enhance the flavor profile but also offer options to cater to different tastes or dietary preferences.

1. Add a Chocolate Twist

   For those who love the combination of ginger and chocolate, simply fold in some dark chocolate chunks or chocolate chips into the dough. The rich bitterness of dark chocolate contrasts beautifully with the spiciness of ginger, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top of the biscuits once they’re baked and cooled for an added indulgence.

2. Citrus Zest

   If you’re craving a zesty touch, adding some lemon or orange zest to the dough gives the biscuits a fresh, fragrant kick. The citrusy aroma complements the ginger perfectly and lightens the overall flavor. A teaspoon of zest is usually enough to make a noticeable difference without overpowering the ginger.

3. Nuts and Seeds

   For extra crunch and a bit of nuttiness, consider incorporating chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Sunflower or pumpkin seeds also work wonderfully, adding both texture and nutritional benefits. These ingredients add a slight earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness and spice of the ginger and oats.

4. Dried Fruit

   Dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots can introduce a burst of sweetness that complements the spicy ginger. Diced dried figs, dates, or even tropical fruits like dried mango can elevate the flavor profile while also adding chewiness to the biscuits. This variation can bring a unique depth to the traditional recipe.

5. Gluten-Free Version

   If you or someone you know is gluten intolerant, it’s easy to make these biscuits gluten-free. Simply substitute the regular oats with certified gluten-free oats, and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that some gluten-free flours might require additional binding agents like xanthan gum, so check the instructions on the flour package to ensure proper texture.

6. Spices and Herbs

   While the recipe already includes ginger, you can experiment by adding other spices to create more complex flavors. A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice can complement the ginger and create a warm, cozy aroma. For a more savory twist, consider incorporating a small amount of ground black pepper or even fresh rosemary for a unique herbal note.

7. Vegan or Dairy-Free Options

   To make these biscuits vegan, simply swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or margarine. You can also use a flaxseed "egg" or chia egg in place of the egg to hold everything together. Dairy-free alternatives for milk, such as almond milk or oat milk, can be used in place of regular milk, ensuring the biscuits remain just as delicious but suitable for those following a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

After baking a batch of Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits, you’ll want to preserve their freshness so that every bite remains just as delightful as the first. Proper storage is key to maintaining their texture and flavor, ensuring that the biscuits stay crunchy and flavorful for as long as possible.

1. Cool Completely Before Storing

   Allow the biscuits to cool completely before placing them in a storage container. This is essential as it prevents any moisture from being trapped inside, which could cause them to lose their crispness. Once cool, they will maintain their crunchy texture longer.

2. Airtight Containers

   Store the biscuits in an airtight container to prevent air from getting in and making them stale. If you don’t have an airtight container, you can also use a resealable plastic bag, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing it. Ensure that the biscuits are placed in a single layer if possible to avoid crushing them.

3. Separate Layers with Wax Paper

   If you’re stacking biscuits on top of each other, place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together. This also helps protect their shape and texture, especially if they’re very delicate.

4. Room Temperature vs. Refrigeration

   Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. Simply keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

   If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them, but keep in mind that this may slightly affect their texture, making them less crunchy. However, for long-term storage, freezing is a great option.

5. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

   If you have a large batch and want to save some for later, freezing is a fantastic solution. Place the biscuits in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid.

   Once frozen, transfer them into an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag, separating the layers with wax paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore some of their crispness.

What Goes Well With Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits

Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. Here are some ideas for what goes well with these aromatic, spice-infused treats:

1. Tea or Coffee

   These biscuits are a natural pairing for a warm cup of tea, especially strong black teas like Earl Grey or English Breakfast, which can complement the ginger’s warmth. If you’re a coffee lover, a rich espresso or a creamy cappuccino can offer the perfect contrast to the spice and sweetness of the biscuits. For a more indulgent treat, try pairing them with a spiced chai latte to double down on the warm flavors.

2. Cheese

   Ginger and cheese may seem like an unusual combination, but the slight sweetness of the biscuits works beautifully with a creamy, tangy cheese like goat cheese or brie. The soft texture of these cheeses complements the crunchy biscuits, creating an unexpected yet harmonious flavor pairing. A sharp cheddar can also offer a contrasting bite that enhances the biscuits’ sweetness.

3. Fresh Fruit

   Serve your ginger oat crunch biscuits with fresh, seasonal fruit for a refreshing balance. The sweetness of sliced apples, pears, or berries can provide a natural counterpoint to the spiciness of the ginger.

   For something more exotic, try them with thin slices of mango or a few spoonfuls of pomegranate seeds. The juiciness of the fruit pairs perfectly with the crunch of the biscuits, offering a satisfying contrast.

4. Yogurt or Cream

   For a richer treat, serve the biscuits with a dollop of thick Greek yogurt or a drizzle of fresh cream. The creaminess balances the spiciness of the ginger and enhances the overall indulgence of the biscuits. You could even make a simple parfait by layering the biscuits with yogurt and fruit for a more filling dessert.

5. Ice Cream

   Pairing these biscuits with a scoop of ice cream makes for a decadent treat. Flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, or caramel work wonderfully, with the biscuits providing a warm, crunchy contrast to the cold, smooth texture of the ice cream. For an even more indulgent dessert, crumble the biscuits over a bowl of ice cream to add texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits are a timeless classic, offering a delicious combination of spice, crunch, and comfort. The versatility of the recipe allows you to easily customize it to suit your tastes, whether you’re adding chocolate, nuts, or making it gluten-free.

By following best practices for storing leftovers, you can enjoy the biscuits for days after baking without compromising their texture. Pairing them with the right drink or accompaniment can elevate your experience, turning an already delightful treat into something even more special. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of tea, a slice of cheese, or a scoop of ice cream, these biscuits remain a beloved and adaptable treat for any occasion.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits?

The key ingredients in Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits are oats, butter, brown sugar, golden syrup, ground ginger, plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients come together to create a crunchy, spicy biscuit with a lovely texture.

How Long Does It Take To Make Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits?

It typically takes around 20 minutes to prepare the ingredients and about 10-12 minutes to bake the biscuits. Overall, you should expect the entire process to take about 30-35 minutes.

Can I Substitute Any Ingredients In The Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits Recipe?

Yes, you can make a few substitutions. For instance, if you don’t have golden syrup, you can use honey or maple syrup as alternatives.

You could also substitute the butter with margarine or a plant-based butter if needed. For those who prefer less spice, you can reduce the amount of ground ginger or omit it entirely.

Should I Chill The Dough Before Baking The Biscuits?

While chilling the dough is not a necessity for Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits, it can help the biscuits keep their shape better while baking. If you have the time, chilling the dough for about 10-15 minutes is a good idea.

What Is The Best Way To Store Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits?

To keep your biscuits fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for up to a week, maintaining their crunch. If you’d like them to last longer, you can freeze the biscuits for up to 3 months.

Can I Make The Dough Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop out the dough, shape the biscuits, and bake as usual. This is a great option if you’re looking to prepare the biscuits in advance.

How Do I Get The Perfect Crunch For These Biscuits?

To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure to bake the biscuits until they are golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as baking time can vary depending on your oven. Additionally, letting the biscuits cool on the baking tray for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack helps maintain their crunch.

Can I Add Other Ingredients Like Chocolate Or Nuts To The Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits?

Absolutely!

Feel free to experiment by adding extras such as chopped dark chocolate, raisins, or even crushed nuts like pecans or almonds to the dough. These additions can enhance the flavor and texture of the biscuits.

How Can I Make These Biscuits Less Sweet?

If you’d like to reduce the sweetness of the Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits, you can cut back on the amount of brown sugar or golden syrup in the recipe. However, be aware that this may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the biscuits.

Can I Make A Gluten-free Version Of Mary Berry’s Ginger Oat Crunch Biscuits?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of these biscuits by using gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular plain flour. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free, especially the baking soda and syrup.