Mary Berry’s Chocolate Biscuits are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the crisp, satisfying crunch of a biscuit. Known for her incredible baking skills and approachable recipes, Mary Berry has crafted a simple yet indulgent recipe for these chocolate biscuits that have become a favorite in many households. With their perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and chocolate richness, these biscuits are perfect for any occasion-whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, enjoying a quiet afternoon tea, or baking a batch just because.
What sets Mary Berry’s recipe apart from other chocolate biscuit recipes is her focus on achieving a perfect texture-crunchy but not too hard, with just the right amount of melt-in-your-mouth chocolate. They are also remarkably easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal equipment. The biscuits themselves are a comforting combination of buttery shortbread-like dough with a coating of smooth, melted chocolate.
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Biscuits Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Biscuits are all about quality ingredients, which come together to create a decadent, perfectly balanced treat. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
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Butter (unsalted) – 100g
The base of the dough, butter provides the rich, indulgent texture of the biscuits. Use unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness.
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Caster Sugar – 50g
Caster sugar is finer than granulated sugar, which helps achieve a smoother dough with a finer texture.
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Self-Raising Flour – 150g
The self-raising flour provides a light lift to the biscuits. It ensures they don’t become too dense while also helping the dough hold together.
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Cocoa Powder – 2 tablespoons
The cocoa powder imparts that deep, chocolatey flavor. Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder to get the richest taste.
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Chocolate (dark or milk) – 200g
This is the star of the show. After baking, the biscuits are dipped or drizzled in melted chocolate, making every bite rich and luxurious. You can choose dark chocolate for a more intense flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier result.
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Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
This subtle ingredient enhances the flavor, balancing the chocolate with a warm, aromatic note.
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Pinch of Salt
A small pinch of salt helps bring out the richness of the chocolate and enhances all the flavors.
Equipment Needed
To create Mary Berry’s Chocolate Biscuits, you won’t need any fancy gadgets-just the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Mixing Bowl
A medium-sized bowl is necessary to combine all of the ingredients. Ideally, use a bowl with enough room to stir without spilling.
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Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
While you can mix the dough by hand, using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer will save you time and ensure that the butter and sugar are properly creamed.
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Sieve
A sieve will help you sift the flour and cocoa powder, ensuring there are no lumps and that the ingredients are evenly mixed.
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Baking Tray
A flat baking tray or baking sheet is essential for placing the biscuits. Make sure to line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Rolling Pin
A rolling pin is key for rolling out the dough to an even thickness, ensuring that each biscuit bakes uniformly.
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Cookie Cutter
A round cookie cutter (or any shape you prefer) is used to cut out the biscuits. You can use a simple round cutter or get creative with shapes, depending on the occasion.
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Heatproof Bowl
This is used to melt the chocolate. A heatproof bowl that fits over a saucepan of simmering water is ideal, as this method ensures the chocolate melts evenly without burning.
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Cooling Rack
Once your biscuits are baked and dipped in chocolate, a cooling rack is perfect for allowing them to set and harden without becoming soggy.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Chocolate Biscuits
Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, it’s time to bake! Follow these simple steps to create Mary Berry’s delicious Chocolate Biscuits:
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Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F), or 160°C (320°F) if using a fan-assisted oven. This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you pop the biscuits in.
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Cream Butter and Sugar
In your mixing bowl, cream together the butter and caster sugar using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat them until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process will help incorporate air into the dough, giving the biscuits a lighter texture.
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Sift Dry Ingredients
Sift together the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt into the bowl. This step removes any lumps in the cocoa powder and flour, ensuring a smooth, well-mixed dough.
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Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until it forms a smooth dough. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little extra flour, but it should come together nicely.
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Roll Out the Dough
Place the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 5mm thickness. Try to keep the dough even to ensure uniform baking.
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Cut Out Biscuits
Using a cookie cutter, cut out the biscuits and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Leave a little space between each biscuit, as they may spread slightly while baking.
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Bake the Biscuits
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and slightly golden around the edges.
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Cool the Biscuits
Allow the biscuits to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Melt the Chocolate
While the biscuits are cooling, break the chocolate into pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl. Melt it gently over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds.
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Dip in Chocolate
Once the biscuits are cool, dip the top of each biscuit into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. For an extra touch, you can drizzle some of the chocolate over the biscuits.
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Let the Chocolate Set
Place the dipped biscuits on a cooling rack and allow the chocolate to set. This may take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of chocolate you use.
Tips And Tricks
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Use Room Temperature Butter
Ensure that your butter is at room temperature before you begin creaming it with sugar. Cold butter will be harder to mix and result in a denser dough.
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Don’t Overwork the Dough
When mixing and rolling out the dough, avoid overworking it, as this can lead to tough biscuits. Once the dough comes together, stop mixing.
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Experiment with Chocolate Types
You can use dark, milk, or even white chocolate for dipping, depending on your preferences. You can also try flavored chocolates, such as orange-infused chocolate, for a unique twist.
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Add Texture with Toppings
Before the chocolate sets, you can sprinkle crushed nuts, sea salt, or sprinkles on top for added flavor and texture.
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Chill the Dough
If the dough is too soft to roll out easily, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before rolling. This helps firm it up and makes it easier to handle.
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Biscuits are the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With a few basic ingredients and some straightforward steps, you can create a batch of delicious biscuits that are guaranteed to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is accessible, fun, and rewarding to make. The joy of biting into a crisp, chocolate-coated biscuit is a treat that’s hard to beat, and with Mary Berry’s recipe, you can achieve that satisfaction in the comfort of your own kitchen. Happy baking!
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Chocolate Biscuits
Mary Berry’s chocolate biscuits are a classic treat that effortlessly combines rich, smooth chocolate with a crisp, buttery biscuit base. While her recipe is beloved for its simplicity and deliciousness, there are plenty of fun variations you can experiment with to make them even more exciting or suit your personal preferences. Here are a few easy ideas to take your chocolate biscuits to the next level:
1. Chocolate And Orange Biscuits
If you’re a fan of the timeless chocolate and orange flavor combination, adding a little zest can completely transform Mary Berry’s chocolate biscuits. Simply incorporate finely grated orange zest into the biscuit dough. You can also add a few drops of orange extract for an extra boost. Once the biscuits are baked and cooled, dip them in dark or milk chocolate for a delicious contrast to the citrusy dough.
2. Salted Caramel Chocolate Biscuits
The rich, smooth caramel paired with a sprinkle of sea salt is a flavor profile that has become increasingly popular in recent years. To make salted caramel chocolate biscuits, you can add a swirl of caramel sauce into the biscuit dough before baking. Alternatively, after baking, drizzle the biscuits with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce and finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast that will tantalize your taste buds.
3. Nutty Chocolate Biscuits
For those who enjoy a little crunch in their treats, adding nuts to your chocolate biscuits is a fantastic idea. Walnuts, hazelnuts, or pecans work wonderfully when chopped into small pieces and stirred into the dough. Not only does this add texture, but the earthy flavor of the nuts complements the sweetness of the chocolate beautifully. For an extra twist, try toasting the nuts lightly in a pan before adding them to the dough to bring out their full flavor.
4. Spiced Chocolate Biscuits
If you’re a fan of warming spices, you can make a spiced version of Mary Berry’s chocolate biscuits. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of ground ginger can be mixed into the dry ingredients to add a subtle heat and complexity to the flavor. This variation is perfect for autumn and winter, evoking the comforting spices of the season.
5. Mint Chocolate Biscuits
For a fresh, cooling twist, add some peppermint essence or finely chopped fresh mint leaves to your biscuit dough. The mint’s refreshing aroma pairs wonderfully with the richness of the chocolate, creating a delightful balance. After baking, you can drizzle the biscuits with white or dark chocolate and even top them with crushed candy canes during the holiday season for a festive touch.
6. Double Chocolate Biscuits
If you’re a true chocolate lover, why settle for one type of chocolate when you can have two? To make double chocolate biscuits, simply add cocoa powder to the dough and then fold in chocolate chips or chunks for an intense chocolatey experience. You can use milk, dark, or white chocolate depending on your preference, creating layers of different chocolate flavors in every bite.
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about Mary Berry’s chocolate biscuits is that they can last for several days, allowing you to enjoy them long after baking. However, proper storage is key to maintaining their texture and flavor.
1. Room Temperature Storage
If you plan to consume your biscuits within a few days, storing them at room temperature is perfectly fine. Simply place the biscuits in an airtight container to protect them from air and moisture. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or stale. You can stack them in the container, but make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
2. Freezing Chocolate Biscuits
For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. After baking and cooling the biscuits completely, you can place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour. Once they’re firm, transfer them into an airtight freezer bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together and helps them maintain their shape. When you’re ready to eat, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.
3. Keeping Chocolate Coating Intact
If you’ve dipped your biscuits in chocolate, it’s important to ensure that the coating doesn’t get smudged or damaged during storage. When storing, make sure the chocolate has fully set and hardened before layering the biscuits in a container. You might want to place a piece of parchment paper between each biscuit to keep the chocolate intact. This also prevents any condensation from forming, which could cause the chocolate to become sticky or dull.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Chocolate Biscuits?
While Mary Berry’s chocolate biscuits are delightful on their own, they can also pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks and additional snacks. Here are a few ideas to elevate your biscuit experience:
1. Hot Beverages
A cup of tea or coffee is always a great companion to chocolate biscuits. For tea lovers, a strong black tea like Earl Grey or English Breakfast pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate flavor, offering a balanced and comforting experience. If you’re more of a coffee drinker, a well-brewed cup of coffee or espresso complements the sweetness of the biscuits perfectly, cutting through the richness and adding depth to the experience.
For something a bit more indulgent, consider pairing the biscuits with a warm, frothy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. The combination of two chocolatey treats will satisfy even the most intense cravings!
2. Milk
A classic pairing with chocolate biscuits is a cold glass of milk. The creamy, cool milk complements the chocolatey sweetness of the biscuits and helps balance the richness of the flavor. This combination is both nostalgic and comforting, making it a great snack for children or anyone with a sweet tooth.
3. Fresh Fruit
If you’re looking to add some freshness to your snack, try pairing the biscuits with fresh fruit. Berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries work especially well because their tangy sweetness contrasts beautifully with the rich, buttery biscuits. Sliced oranges or apple slices can also offer a refreshing break between bites of the chocolate biscuits.
4. Ice Cream
For a more decadent dessert, serve your Mary Berry chocolate biscuits alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Vanilla, salted caramel, or even a rich chocolate ice cream would pair beautifully with the crispy, chocolatey texture of the biscuits. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle a bit of chocolate or caramel sauce over the ice cream to tie the flavors together.
5. Cheese
For a more adventurous pairing, try serving your biscuits with a small plate of cheese. Mild, creamy cheeses like brie or mascarpone complement the sweetness of the biscuits and offer a delightful contrast in texture. A tangy blue cheese could also work well, especially when paired with dark chocolate biscuits, for those who enjoy bold flavor combinations.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s chocolate biscuits are a timeless treat that are both easy to make and endlessly adaptable. With simple ingredient swaps and a bit of creativity, you can personalize these biscuits to suit your tastes, whether you’re adding a hint of orange, a dash of spice, or some crunchy nuts. The beauty of these biscuits lies in their versatility, allowing you to tailor them to your preferences and even make them ahead of time for future enjoyment.
When it comes to storing leftovers, a few simple tricks will ensure your biscuits remain fresh and delicious for several days, or even weeks, if frozen. And when it’s time to enjoy them, there are endless pairing options that can elevate the experience, from a warm cup of tea to a scoop of ice cream.
In conclusion, whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, a casual snack, or just because, Mary Berry’s chocolate biscuits are a treat everyone can enjoy. They’re easy to make, easy to store, and most importantly-delicious in any variation.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Chocolate Biscuits?
Mary Berry’s chocolate biscuits recipe includes a simple set of ingredients: butter, caster sugar, plain flour, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients come together to create a rich, chocolatey biscuit with a slightly crumbly texture.
Can I Use Dark Chocolate Chips Instead Of Milk Chocolate In Mary Berry’s Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate in Mary Berry’s chocolate biscuits recipe. This will result in a slightly more intense chocolate flavor, perfect for those who prefer a richer taste. Keep in mind that dark chocolate has less sugar than milk chocolate, which may slightly affect the sweetness of the biscuits.
How Long Do Mary Berry’s Chocolate Biscuits Take To Bake?
Mary Berry’s chocolate biscuits typically take around 12-15 minutes to bake at 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F. The biscuits should be slightly firm to the touch but not hard. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to fully cool.
