Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits are a timeless classic, celebrated for their delicate texture and rich, buttery flavor. Known for her expertise in baking, Mary Berry’s recipe combines simple ingredients to create a deliciously melt-in-your-mouth biscuit that’s perfect for any occasion. These biscuits are light, crisp, and have a soft crumb that crumbles effortlessly when bitten into. Unlike more dense or chewy cookies, these butter biscuits are meant to provide a subtle yet indulgent experience, offering a smooth sweetness with a slight buttery richness that makes them irresistible. Whether served with a cup of tea in the afternoon or enjoyed as a delightful snack, Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits can easily become a staple in your baking repertoire.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. It doesn’t require any unusual or hard-to-find ingredients-just basic pantry staples like butter, sugar, flour, and a touch of vanilla. The beauty lies in how these ingredients come together, creating a biscuit that strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and richness. The dough is incredibly easy to handle and the end result is a golden batch of perfectly crisp yet tender biscuits. With Mary Berry’s attention to detail, this recipe brings out the best in these humble ingredients.

Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits, you only need a few essential ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Butter (unsalted, 200g or 7 oz): The star of the show, providing richness and flavor. Be sure to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
2. Caster Sugar (100g or 3.5 oz): Caster sugar dissolves easily into the dough, contributing to the smooth texture of the biscuits while adding the right amount of sweetness. You could substitute with regular granulated sugar, but caster sugar will give a finer, more refined finish.
3. Plain Flour (250g or 8.8 oz): Plain (all-purpose) flour works best for these biscuits as it gives them a light, delicate crumb. Avoid using self-raising flour to maintain the correct texture.
4. Cornflour (optional, 1 tbsp): Cornflour (cornstarch) helps create a more tender, crumbly biscuit by interfering with the formation of gluten. While not essential, it adds to the melt-in-the-mouth texture that makes these biscuits so beloved.
5. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): A hint of vanilla enhances the biscuit’s flavor and adds depth to the simple ingredients. Mary Berry uses pure vanilla extract to ensure the best flavor.
6. Milk (1-2 tbsp, optional): A small amount of milk can be added if needed to bring the dough together, but it should be used sparingly to avoid making the dough too sticky.

Equipment Needed

When it comes to equipment, making Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits doesn’t require anything too complex. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl to combine your ingredients. It’s best to use a bowl with enough space to prevent flour from spilling over as you mix.
2. Electric Mixer (optional): While you can mix everything by hand, an electric mixer or stand mixer makes it quicker and easier to cream the butter and sugar together, creating a smooth base for your biscuits.
3. Rolling Pin: You’ll need a rolling pin to roll out the dough. A smooth rolling pin works best, and it’s a good idea to lightly flour the work surface and pin to prevent sticking.
4. Baking Tray: A baking tray or sheet is needed to bake the biscuits. It’s best to line the tray with parchment paper to ensure the biscuits don’t stick and to make cleaning up easier.
5. Cookie Cutter: A round biscuit cutter, around 5-6 cm in diameter, is typically used for Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits. However, you can use any shape you like or even shape them by hand.
6. Cooling Rack: After baking, it’s important to allow the biscuits to cool properly on a cooling rack, which will help them maintain their crisp texture.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits

Making Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits is a straightforward process, perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a quick and satisfying bake. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect batch:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F) or 170°C (340°F) for fan-assisted ovens. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the biscuits from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and caster sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step is crucial for achieving that light texture, so be sure to mix for several minutes until the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients: Sift the plain flour (and cornflour, if using) into the butter and sugar mixture. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overwork the dough. If the dough is too stiff, add a small splash of milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
4. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 0.5 cm (¼ inch) thickness. It’s important not to roll it too thin, as you want the biscuits to have some structure.
5. Cut the Biscuits: Use a biscuit cutter to cut out your biscuits. Place each one on the prepared baking tray, leaving some space between them to allow for slight spreading.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges of the biscuits are golden brown. The key is to catch them just as they begin to turn golden, as they will continue to cook slightly on the tray once removed from the oven.
7. Cool: Once baked, transfer the biscuits to a cooling rack to cool completely. This will help them firm up and become crisp.

Tips And Tricks

1. Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is at room temperature before starting. Cold butter will not mix well with sugar, and melted butter can result in overly greasy biscuits.
2. Chill the Dough: If you find the dough becomes too soft and sticky while rolling it out, wrap it in cling film and refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to handle and help the biscuits hold their shape during baking.
3. Add Flavor Variations: While Mary Berry’s recipe is wonderfully simple, you can easily customize the flavor of your butter biscuits. Try adding finely chopped citrus zest (like lemon or orange), a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, or even small chunks of chocolate to the dough for a twist on the classic.
4. Watch the Oven: Since oven temperatures can vary, it’s a good idea to check your biscuits a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time. You want them golden, not browned or overbaked.
5. Don’t Overmix: When mixing in the flour, stop as soon as the dough comes together. Overworking the dough can develop the gluten too much, making the biscuits tough instead of tender.
6. Serve with Style: For an extra touch, you can dust the cooled biscuits with a little icing sugar or even dip the edges in melted chocolate for a delightful treat.

Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits are the epitome of simple, delicious baking. With just a handful of basic ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a batch of biscuits that are perfect for any tea-time or snacking occasion. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing for small personal twists while staying true to its original charm. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just getting started, these biscuits will impress with their crisp texture, buttery flavor, and golden-brown perfection. So, next time you’re in the mood for a quick bake, Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits are the perfect choice to fill your kitchen with sweet, comforting aromas and satisfy your craving for something homemade.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are a classic in British baking, known for their simple ingredients, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and rich, buttery flavor. However, the beauty of this recipe lies not just in its timeless appeal but also in the versatility it offers. There are several easy and creative ways to tweak the recipe and make it your own. Here are some ideas:

1. Chocolate-Dipped Butter Biscuits

For those who love a sweet, decadent twist, dipping your biscuits in melted chocolate is a game changer. Once the biscuits have cooled, simply melt some high-quality dark or milk chocolate in a bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Dip the edges of each biscuit in the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set. For an extra touch, you could sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets to create a sweet-salty contrast.

2. Lemon or Orange Zest

If you’re after a citrusy kick, adding lemon or orange zest to the dough can elevate the flavor profile. The zest adds a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the butter. Simply grate the zest of one lemon or orange and mix it into the dough along with the dry ingredients. You can also drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled biscuits for an extra zing.

3. Almond Butter Biscuits

For a nutty variation, you can add ground almonds to the dough. This not only imparts a delightful almond flavor but also adds a slight crunch and texture. Simply replace a quarter of the flour with ground almonds, or for a stronger almond taste, you could also use almond extract instead of vanilla. If you’re a fan of frangipane, this variation will have you swooning.

4. Cinnamon and Sugar Coated Biscuits

A quick and easy variation involves rolling the dough in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking. The sugar caramelizes slightly during baking, creating a crisp, sweet crust, while the cinnamon provides a warm, aromatic flavor. To do this, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Roll your biscuit dough balls in the mixture before placing them on the baking sheet.

5. Savory Cheese Biscuits

For a savory version, you can replace the vanilla extract with a pinch of salt and add a generous amount of finely grated cheddar cheese to the dough. The result is a crunchy, cheese-laden biscuit that’s perfect for serving alongside a bowl of soup or salad. You could even top these biscuits with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for a fragrant, herby twist.

6. Raspberry Jam Filled Biscuits

To make these biscuits even more indulgent, you can create little thumbprint biscuits filled with raspberry or strawberry jam. After rolling the dough into balls, gently press your thumb into the center of each and fill with a dollop of jam. The jam becomes wonderfully sticky and warm as the biscuits bake, creating a sweet and fruity treat that’s both charming and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are so irresistibly delicious that they might not last long, but in the event that you have leftovers, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh.

1. Airtight Container

To ensure that your butter biscuits stay crisp and fresh for as long as possible, store them in an airtight container. This helps to maintain their texture and prevent them from absorbing moisture from the air, which could cause them to become soggy or lose their crunch. You can stack the biscuits in layers, but be sure to place a sheet of parchment paper between the layers to avoid them sticking together.

2. Room Temperature Storage

Butter biscuits can typically be stored at room temperature for about 5-7 days. If you’re expecting to keep them longer than that, you may want to freeze them (see below). However, if you plan to enjoy them within a week, an airtight container on your kitchen counter or in a cool, dry cupboard should suffice. Just be sure they’re stored away from direct sunlight or heat.

3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

If you have a surplus of biscuits or want to bake them in advance for a special occasion, freezing is a fantastic option. To freeze butter biscuits, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange the biscuits in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours. This flash-freezing method prevents them from sticking together. Once they’re firm, transfer the biscuits into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to eat them, you can either thaw them at room temperature or pop them directly into a warm oven (around 160°C / 320°F) for 5-10 minutes to refresh them. This will revive their crisp texture and buttery taste.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits?

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are wonderfully versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of foods, whether you’re serving them as part of an afternoon tea spread, enjoying them as a snack, or incorporating them into a more substantial meal. Here are a few ideas:

1. Tea and Coffee

Butter biscuits are a quintessential addition to any afternoon tea. They pair beautifully with a variety of teas, such as Earl Grey, English Breakfast, or even a refreshing herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint. The richness of the biscuits contrasts nicely with the aromatic, often slightly astringent flavors of tea. Similarly, they go hand-in-hand with coffee, especially if you’re enjoying a cappuccino or latte.

2. Jam and Clotted Cream

For a truly indulgent treat, serve your butter biscuits with a dollop of clotted cream and a spoonful of fruit jam (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot are all good choices). This combination brings a touch of luxury and is perfect for those who enjoy rich, sweet flavors with a soft, creamy texture. The jam’s tartness complements the buttery sweetness of the biscuits, while the clotted cream adds richness.

3. Soft Cheese and Crackers

If you prefer a savory option, consider serving your butter biscuits as part of a cheese platter. Soft cheeses like Brie, goat cheese, or camembert work particularly well, as their creamy texture contrasts with the biscuit’s crispness. Add some grapes, figs, or a drizzle of honey for an elegant touch. These biscuits also pair nicely with sharp cheeses such as cheddar or stilton, adding a sweet-salty balance.

4. Fresh Berries

For a lighter, fresher accompaniment, fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries are a fantastic choice. The natural sweetness and juiciness of the berries make for a refreshing contrast to the buttery richness of the biscuits. You can also serve them with a scoop of whipped cream or a dollop of mascarpone for a decadent, dessert-style snack.

5. Ice Cream

If you’re looking for a more indulgent dessert, serve Mary Berry’s butter biscuits with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. The crispy texture of the biscuits complements the smooth, creamy ice cream perfectly. Consider pairing with classic vanilla or chocolate ice cream, or for a more adventurous twist, try a tangy lemon sorbet or a rich salted caramel ice cream.

6. Soup and Salad

For a savory approach, serve the butter biscuits alongside a warm, hearty soup like tomato, butternut squash, or a creamy potato leek soup. The biscuits add a nice contrast to the smoothness of the soup. You could also pair them with a light salad, such as a simple green salad with vinaigrette, to add a bit of crunch and texture.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are an iconic treat in the world of baking-simple yet sophisticated, with a flavor and texture that’s universally beloved. What makes them so special is not only their ease of preparation but also their versatility. Whether you stick with the traditional recipe or explore variations like chocolate-dipped, lemon-zest infused, or savory cheese biscuits, you’re guaranteed a batch of biscuits that will be hard to resist.

Storing leftovers properly ensures that these biscuits maintain their fresh, crisp texture for several days, and freezing them provides an option for long-term storage. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea, some clotted cream and jam, or pairing them with soft cheese or fresh berries, Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are incredibly adaptable, making them a perfect addition to any meal or snack.

In the end, this recipe is about more than just following instructions; it’s about experimenting with flavors, textures, and combinations to create your own signature version of this classic biscuit. So, whether you bake them for a special occasion, a casual afternoon tea, or as a sweet snack, Mary Berry’s butter biscuits will always deliver comfort, warmth, and a whole lot of buttery goodness.

FAQs

What Makes Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits Recipe Different From Other Butter Biscuit Recipes?

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are known for their perfect balance of buttery flavor and delicate crisp texture. Her recipe emphasizes using high-quality butter and simple, accessible ingredients. The dough is easy to handle, and the biscuits bake to a light golden brown. One of the key elements that sets Mary Berry’s recipe apart is her method of chilling the dough before baking, which ensures a perfect texture and prevents the biscuits from spreading too much in the oven.

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

Yes, Mary Berry’s butter biscuits can be made in advance. The dough can be prepared and chilled for up to 24 hours before rolling and baking. Alternatively, you can bake the biscuits ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to freeze the dough, you can shape the biscuits, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-lock bag and bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What Variations Can I Try With Mary Berry’s Butter Biscuits Recipe?

Mary Berry’s butter biscuits are versatile and can easily be customized with various additions. Some popular variations include adding lemon zest or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. You can also incorporate chocolate chips, finely chopped nuts, or dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a twist. For a more decadent version, drizzle the cooled biscuits with a simple glaze made from icing sugar and lemon juice or dip the edges in melted chocolate.