Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits are a delightful treat that combines the warmth and spice of cinnamon with the crispiness of a perfectly baked biscuit. Mary Berry, a renowned British baker and television personality, is known for her simple yet sophisticated recipes that bring joy to home bakers around the world. These cinnamon biscuits are no exception. They offer a blend of subtle sweetness with a comforting, aromatic cinnamon flavor that makes them a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee.
The texture of these biscuits is something special-crisp on the outside, soft and tender on the inside. They are light, not overly sugary, and have just the right amount of cinnamon to make them irresistible without overpowering the taste buds. What makes them even more appealing is their versatility. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack, a festive treat, or an addition to a biscuit tin, these little delights are bound to become a household favorite. If you’re a fan of Mary Berry’s approachable style of baking, these cinnamon biscuits will surely win you over with their delightful balance of flavors and easy preparation.
Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits, you’ll need a handful of basic ingredients. Nothing too fancy, just everyday pantry staples that come together to create something extraordinary. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Plain flour – The foundation of any good biscuit, providing structure and lightness. Plain flour is ideal for this recipe as it creates a more delicate texture than self-raising flour would.
- Butter – Rich and creamy butter is essential for giving these biscuits their melt-in-your-mouth quality. It adds flavor, moisture, and helps achieve that perfect crispness.
- Caster sugar – Fine, refined sugar works best to create a smooth dough and gives the biscuits just the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming.
- Cinnamon – The star ingredient! Ground cinnamon gives the biscuits their distinctive, warm, and aromatic flavor.
- Baking powder – To give the biscuits a slight lift, baking powder ensures they aren’t too dense, keeping them light and airy.
- Milk – A little milk helps to bring the dough together, providing the perfect consistency for shaping the biscuits.
- Vanilla extract – Though not always essential in cinnamon-based recipes, vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a subtle layer of sweetness and warmth.
The beauty of these ingredients is that they are easy to find and typically on hand in most kitchens, making these biscuits the perfect choice for a spontaneous baking session when you’re craving something homemade.
Equipment Needed
Making Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits doesn’t require any fancy kitchen gadgets or professional equipment. The tools needed are basic and easily accessible, allowing you to focus on the process rather than complicated setups. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowl – A medium-sized bowl to combine all the dry ingredients and then the wet ingredients into a smooth dough.
- Whisk or spoon – A simple whisk or wooden spoon to mix the ingredients together.
- Rolling pin – This is key for rolling out the dough to the right thickness. A rolling pin ensures that your dough is evenly spread, making the biscuits uniform in size.
- Biscuit cutters – To achieve the classic round shape, use a biscuit cutter or cookie cutter of your choice. You could also use the rim of a glass if you don’t have a proper cutter.
- Baking tray – A flat baking tray lined with parchment paper ensures that the biscuits bake evenly and don’t stick to the surface.
- Cooling rack – After the biscuits are baked, a cooling rack is necessary to help them cool down quickly and evenly, preventing them from becoming soggy at the bottom.
With just these basic tools, you can bake a batch of cinnamon biscuits that would make Mary Berry herself proud.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits
Now, let’s get to the good part-actually making these delicious cinnamon biscuits! Follow these straightforward instructions for a guaranteed success:
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F) or 170°C (340°F) for fan ovens. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to avoid the biscuits sticking.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the plain flour, baking powder, and ground cinnamon. This ensures there are no lumps and that the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, beat together the butter and caster sugar using a whisk or electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process introduces air into the dough, giving the biscuits their delicate texture.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter and sugar, stirring until the dough begins to come together. Add a splash of milk as needed to bring the dough to a soft, but firm consistency.
- Roll out the dough: Once the dough is ready, lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out to about 5mm thickness. Use your biscuit cutter to cut out the shapes, then place them on the prepared baking tray. You can space the biscuits out a little, as they don’t spread too much during baking.
- Bake the biscuits: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the biscuits for 8-10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary.
- Cool the biscuits: After baking, transfer the biscuits to a cooling rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from becoming soggy and allow them to crisp up perfectly.
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooled, serve your cinnamon biscuits with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy the delicate sweetness, buttery texture, and the comforting cinnamon spice that makes them so special!
Tips And Tricks
- Chill the dough: If the dough feels too soft to handle, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and prevent the biscuits from spreading too much during baking.
- Use a light touch when mixing: Don’t overwork the dough. Gently mix until the ingredients are just combined to ensure your biscuits stay tender and light.
- Experiment with shapes: While the traditional round biscuits are classic, you can have fun using different cookie cutters to create shapes suited to any occasion-hearts for Valentine’s Day, stars for Christmas, or even a fun flower shape for a garden party.
- Add a glaze or sugar coating: For extra sweetness, you can brush the biscuits with a simple glaze made of icing sugar and milk or roll them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking for an added touch of flavor.
- Store properly: To keep the biscuits fresh for longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last up to a week, but they’re so tasty, they might not last that long!
Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits are a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined with the right technique, can produce something truly special. The light, crisp texture and the fragrant warmth of cinnamon make them a delightful snack for any occasion. Whether you’re baking them for a casual afternoon tea, as a gift, or just to enjoy with your family, these biscuits will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Easy to make, full of flavor, and just the right balance of sweet and spicy, Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits are a timeless classic that anyone can bake with confidence and enjoy with pleasure.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits
Mary Berry’s cinnamon biscuits are a classic delight – crisp, buttery, and perfectly spiced with cinnamon. While the original recipe is a crowd-pleaser on its own, there are plenty of ways to tweak and personalize the recipe to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some easy recipe variations that will elevate your baking experience.
1. Chai Spice Cinnamon Biscuits
If you love the warm, aromatic flavor of chai, adding a little bit of ground ginger, cardamom, and cloves to the cinnamon in the dough will give your biscuits a delightful twist. These additional spices will evoke the cozy essence of chai tea, creating a flavor profile that’s both rich and exotic. Simply swap out a teaspoon of cinnamon for each of the other spices, adjusting to your preference for warmth and heat.
2. Orange Zest And Cinnamon Biscuits
For a fresh, citrusy kick, try adding the zest of one orange to your dough. The zingy citrus complements the earthy sweetness of the cinnamon and can make for a more refreshing treat. If you want to go the extra mile, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the cooled biscuits. This adds a sweet, tangy finish that’s hard to resist.
3. Nutty Cinnamon Biscuits
To add some crunch to your cinnamon biscuits, incorporate chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts into the dough. The nutty texture not only enhances the flavor but also gives the biscuits an extra depth that contrasts nicely with the softness of the dough. Toasting the nuts before adding them will intensify their flavor and add an extra layer of richness.
4. Gluten-Free Cinnamon Biscuits
For those with gluten sensitivities, making Mary Berry’s cinnamon biscuits gluten-free is easier than you might think. Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. You may also want to add a teaspoon of xanthan gum or psyllium husk to help bind the dough together and give it the right texture. Keep in mind that gluten-free flour often absorbs more liquid, so you might need to adjust the amount of butter or add a touch of milk to achieve the right consistency.
5. Vegan Cinnamon Biscuits
If you’re following a vegan diet, substituting dairy and eggs is simple. Use a plant-based butter alternative and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). You can also swap regular milk for almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. The result is a beautifully buttery biscuit that’s completely dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
6. Cinnamon And Apple Biscuits
If you’re looking for a seasonal variation, adding finely diced apples to the dough is a wonderful way to bring an extra burst of flavor. The apples infuse the biscuits with moisture, while their sweet, tart notes pair perfectly with the warm cinnamon. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little bit of brown sugar and cinnamon on top of the dough before baking to create a caramelized topping.
7. Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While Mary Berry’s cinnamon biscuits are delicious as they are, a simple cinnamon sugar topping adds an extra layer of sweetness and crunch. Once your biscuits are baked and still warm, sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon on top. This creates a crispy, sweet exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
These variations allow you to take the basic cinnamon biscuit recipe and make it your own, whether you’re experimenting with spices, making it vegan or gluten-free, or adding a fruity twist.
Storing Leftovers
Mary Berry’s cinnamon biscuits are delightful fresh out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, there are ways to store them to maintain their flavor and texture for a few more days. Here are the best methods for storing your cinnamon biscuits:
1. Room Temperature Storage
If you plan to consume the biscuits within a few days, storing them at room temperature is the simplest option. Place the biscuits in an airtight container, ensuring that the lid is tightly sealed to prevent them from becoming stale. They should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days this way. Just be sure to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve their texture.
2. Freezing For Longer Storage
For longer-term storage, freezing is the best option. Allow the biscuits to cool completely before freezing to avoid condensation forming and making them soggy. Once cooled, place the biscuits on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for about 1-2 hours, until firm. Then, transfer the frozen biscuits into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to eat them, you can thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours or pop them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to refresh their crispiness. If you prefer a warm biscuit straight out of the freezer, simply microwave them for 15-20 seconds.
3. Storing Glazed Biscuits
If you’ve added a glaze to your cinnamon biscuits, it’s best to store them separately from the glaze to prevent it from melting or becoming sticky. Keep the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature, and store the glaze in a small container. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the glaze over the biscuits just before eating.
With these storage tips, you can easily extend the life of your cinnamon biscuits and keep them fresh for longer!
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits?
Mary Berry’s cinnamon biscuits are a treat that can stand alone, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks and dishes. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast, tea time, or as a dessert, here are some ideas for what to eat with your cinnamon biscuits to elevate the experience:
1. Tea Or Coffee
Cinnamon biscuits and tea are a classic pairing. Whether you prefer a strong black tea like Earl Grey, or a more delicate white tea, the spiced sweetness of the cinnamon will complement the warm, aromatic flavors of the tea. For coffee drinkers, a smooth latte or cappuccino is a perfect match, as the richness of the milk complements the cinnamon’s sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, an iced coffee can provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the biscuits.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream
For a sweet treat, serve your cinnamon biscuits with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy texture of the ice cream contrasts perfectly with the crispy, spiced biscuit, creating a delightful balance of temperatures and flavors. You can also drizzle a little caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness.
3. Fruit Compote
A fruity compote, like apple, pear, or mixed berries, can enhance the cinnamon flavor in the biscuits. The tartness of the fruit balances out the sweetness of the biscuit, while the soft, juicy texture of the compote contrasts with the crispness of the biscuit. Serve the compote warm for a comforting dessert or chilled for a refreshing touch.
4. Cheese
For a more savory pairing, try serving cinnamon biscuits with a mild, creamy cheese like brie or goat cheese. The subtle tang of the cheese offsets the sweet cinnamon, and the combination creates a sophisticated flavor profile. You could also serve the biscuits with cream cheese spread for a savory-sweet experience.
5. Hot Chocolate
During colder months, there’s nothing quite like pairing a warm cinnamon biscuit with a rich cup of hot chocolate. The combination of chocolate and cinnamon is a classic one, and the richness of the hot cocoa complements the sweetness of the biscuit. For an extra indulgent touch, top your hot chocolate with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.
With these pairing suggestions, you can enjoy Mary Berry’s cinnamon biscuits in a variety of delightful ways, whether you’re indulging in a sweet treat or balancing the flavors with something savory.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s cinnamon biscuits are a timeless treat, simple to make, and easy to personalize. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore different variations with spices, fruits, or nuts, the result is always delicious. These biscuits offer a versatile base that can be enjoyed in many ways – from a casual snack to a more refined dessert.
Storing leftovers is easy, with simple options for room temperature storage or freezing for longer shelf life, ensuring you can enjoy these treats days after baking. And when it comes to pairing them, the options are endless – from a steaming cup of tea or coffee to indulgent ice cream or fruity compotes.
So, whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, Mary Berry’s cinnamon biscuits provide a warm, comforting taste of home. Try them today, and you’ll understand why they’ve become a classic favorite.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Required For Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits Recipe?
Mary Berry’s cinnamon biscuits require a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. You’ll need plain flour, caster sugar, butter, ground cinnamon, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and an egg. You can also use light brown sugar if you prefer a richer flavor.
How Long Should I Bake Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits For?
The biscuits should be baked in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F for around 12-15 minutes, depending on your oven. They should be golden brown around the edges, so keep an eye on them after the 12-minute mark.
Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Cinnamon Biscuits Dough Before Baking?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for Mary Berry’s cinnamon biscuits. Simply wrap the dough in cling film and place it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the dough in the fridge for a few hours before rolling it out and cutting the biscuits. This method works great for making the biscuits in advance!
