5 Simple Mary Berry Biscuit Recipes to Try

Do you love biscuits?

I do! They are one of my favourite treats to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. They are also perfect for sharing with family and friends or giving as gifts.

But do you know how to make biscuits?

It may seem like a daunting task, especially if you are not an experienced baker. But don’t worry, I have good news for you: making biscuits is easier than you think!

And who better to teach us how to make biscuits than Mary Berry, the queen of baking?

She has been baking for over 60 years and has written over 70 cookbooks. She is also known for her appearances on TV shows like The Great British Bake Off and Mary Berry’s Absolute Favourites.

Mary Berry has a lot of biscuit recipes to choose from, but today I will show you 5 of her simplest and most delicious ones. These are:

• Chocolate chip biscuits
• Lemon biscuits
• Almond biscuits
• Fork biscuits
• Viennese whirl biscuits

These biscuits are all made from a basic dough that is easy to prepare and versatile. You can add different flavours and toppings to create different varieties. They are also quick to bake and store well in an airtight container.

So, are you ready to learn how to make these amazing biscuits?

Let’s get started!

• Learn: Butter Biscuit Crumb Base

Mary Berry Chocolate Chip Biscuits

Who doesn’t love chocolate chip biscuits? They are crunchy, chewy, and full of chocolate goodness. They are also one of Mary Berry’s favourites, and she makes them with her grandchildren.

To make these biscuits, you will need:

• 175g (6oz) butter, softened
• 75g (2½oz) caster sugar
• 175g (6oz) plain flour, plus extra for dusting
• 75g (2½oz) semolina
• 50g (1¾oz) milk or plain chocolate chips

Instruction to Make this Simple Mary Berry Chocolate Chip Biscuits

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C /fan 160°C/ gas 4. Line two baking trays with baking paper.
2. Measure the butter into a bowl and beat to soften. Gradually beat in the sugar and then the flour and semolina. Bring the mixture together with your hands to form a dough.
3. Knead the chocolate chips into the dough, then shape them into 20 balls and arrange them on the prepared baking trays, spaced well apart.
4. Press down each ball with the back of a fork into discs about 5cm (2in) in diameter.
5. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

That’s it! You have just made some delicious chocolate chip biscuits that you can enjoy anytime.

Mary Berry Lemon Biscuits

If you prefer something more zesty and refreshing, try these lemon biscuits. They are crisp and tangy, with a lovely lemon flavour.

To make these biscuits, you will need:

• The same basic dough as above
• 1 lemon, finely grated zest only
• 1–2 tbsp demerara sugar

Instruction to Make Mary Berry Lemon Biscuits

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C /fan 160°C/ gas 4. Line a baking tray with baking paper.
2. Knead the lemon zest into the dough. Roll it into a long sausage shape (about 20cm/8in long) and roll it in the demerara sugar.
3. Wrap it in cling film and leave it in the freezer for about 30 minutes or until firm and nearly frozen.
4. Slice it into 20 even rounds, each about 1cm (½in) thick. Arrange them on the prepared baking tray, spaced well apart.
5. Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until pale golden brown.
6. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

That’s it! You have just made some refreshing lemon biscuits that are perfect for summer.

• Related: Mary Berry Lemon Shortbread Biscuits Recipe

Almond Biscuits

If you like nuts, you will love these almond biscuits. They are crunchy and nutty, with a hint of almond flavour.

To make these biscuits, you will need:

• The same basic dough as above
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 40g (1½oz) flaked almonds

Instruction to Make this Simple Mary Berry Almond Biscuits

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C /fan 160°C/ gas 4. Line a baking tray with baking paper.
2. Knead the almond extract and most of the flaked almonds into the dough. Shape it into 20 small balls and arrange them on the prepared baking tray, spaced apart.
3. Place a few almonds on top of each ball of dough and press flat with the back of a fork into discs about 5cm (2in) in diameter.
4. Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

That’s it! You have just made some nutty almond biscuits that are great for snacking.

Mary Berry Fork Biscuits

These fork biscuits are the easiest of all. They only require four ingredients and are very quick to make. They are also very buttery and melt-in-your-mouth.

To make these biscuits, you will need:

• 100g (4oz) butter, softened
• 50g (2oz) caster sugar
• 150g (5oz) self-raising flour
• A fork

Instruction to Make Mary Berry Fork Biscuits

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C /fan 160°C/ gas 4. Lightly butter two baking trays.
2. Measure the butter into a bowl and beat to soften. Gradually beat in the sugar and then the flour. Bring the mixture together with your hands to form a dough.
3. Form the dough into 16 balls about the size of a walnut and place them on the prepared baking trays, spaced well apart.
4. Dip a fork in a little water and use it to flatten the biscuits.
5. Bake in the oven for 15–20 minutes until a very pale golden.
6. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

That’s it! You have just made some simple and tasty fork biscuits that you can enjoy anytime.

Viennese Whirl Biscuits

These Viennese whirl biscuits are a bit more fancy and elegant, but still easy to make. They are light and crumbly, with a rich buttercream filling and a jam centre.

To make these biscuits, you will need:

• For the biscuit dough:
  • 250g (9oz) very soft butter
  • 50g (2oz) icing sugar
  • 250g (9oz) plain flour
  • 50g (2oz) cornflour
  • A piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle
• For the filling:
  • 100g (4oz) soft butter
  • 200g (7oz) icing sugar, sifted
  • About half a jar of raspberry jam

Instruction to Make Mary Berry Viennese Whirl Biscuits

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C /fan 170°C/ gas 5. Line two baking trays with baking paper.
2. To make the biscuit dough, measure the butter and icing sugar into a bowl and beat well until pale and fluffy. Sift in the flour and cornflour and mix well to form a soft dough.
3. Spoon the dough into the piping bag and pipe 16 swirls onto each baking tray, leaving space between them.
4. Bake in the oven for 13–15 minutes until a pale golden-brown.
5. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. To make the filling, measure the butter into a bowl and sift over half of the icing sugar. Beat well until smooth, then sift over the remaining icing sugar and beat again until light and fluffy.
7. Spoon or pipe a little buttercream over half of the biscuits, then spoon or pipe a little jam over the other half of the biscuits.
8. Sandwich together one buttercream biscuit with one jam biscuit, gently pressing together.

That’s it! You have just made some elegant Viennese whirl biscuits that are perfect for afternoon tea.

What Do I Serve Biscuits With?

While biscuits are a treat by themselves, combining them with complementary accompaniments can elevate their taste to a whole new level.

Whether you’re enjoying them as a light snack or presenting them as a sophisticated party appetizer, here are some top-notch pairings for your biscuit indulgence:

Beverages to Sip On:

Tea & Coffee: Dipping biscuits into a steaming cup of your favourite beverage is timeless. From aromatic blends like Earl Grey and English Breakfast to calming chamomile or refreshing green tea, there’s a perfect match for every biscuit. Coffee enthusiasts can opt for lattes, cappuccinos, or mochas for that rich, creamy experience.

Creamy Delights: For those with a sweet tooth, pairing biscuits with milk or sumptuous hot chocolate offers comfort and warmth. Elevate the experience with a dollop of whipped cream, a handful of marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Savory Combinations:

Cheese Extravaganza: For a classy appetizer or snack, lay out an array of cheeses – be it sharp cheddar, creamy brie, tangy blue cheese, or velvety goat cheese. Enhance the experience with accompaniments like fresh grapes, crunchy nuts, or a drizzle of honey.

Sweet Sensations:

Jam & Marmalade: Transform your biscuits into a delightful breakfast or teatime treat with a spread of your favourite jams or marmalades. From tangy raspberry and orange to classic strawberry and apricot, there’s no limit to these fruity delights. For an added layer of flavour, butter the biscuit before slathering on the preserves.

Decadent Desserts: Why not turn your biscuit into a gourmet dessert? Serve them alongside scoops of creamy ice cream, be it classic vanilla, rich chocolate, fruity strawberry, or any flavour that tickles your fancy. Elevate this pairing with drizzles of luscious chocolate or caramel sauce, or a hint of fruity compote.

Enjoy these pairings and let every bite of your biscuit be an unforgettable taste journey!

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Biscuits

Mary Berry is a master baker who knows how to make perfect biscuits every time. Here are some of her pro tips that you can follow to achieve the same results:

• Use good quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will affect the taste and texture of your biscuits. Use fresh butter, eggs, flour, sugar, and flavourings for the best results. Also, make sure that your ingredients are at room temperature before using them.
• Measure accurately: Baking is a science that requires precise measurements. Use a digital scale to weigh your ingredients rather than using cups or spoons. This will ensure that your proportions are correct and consistent.
• Don’t overmix: When making the biscuit dough, don’t overmix it or knead it too much. This will make the dough tough and dense. Just mix it until it comes together into a smooth ball.
• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough before baking will help it hold its shape and prevent it from spreading too much in the oven. It will also make it easier to cut or shape the dough if needed.
• Preheat the oven: Preheating the oven is important for even baking and browning of your biscuits. Make sure that your oven is at the right temperature before putting your biscuits in. You can use an oven thermometer to check the accuracy of your oven.
• Bake on the middle rack: Baking your biscuits on the middle rack of your oven will ensure that they bake evenly and don’t burn on the bottom or top. Also, make sure that there is enough space between your baking trays and the oven walls for proper air circulation.
• Watch the time: Baking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your biscuits, as well as your oven performance. Check your biscuits after 10 minutes and then every few minutes until they are done. They should be lightly golden on the edges and firm to the touch.
• Cool on a wire rack: After taking your biscuits out of the oven, let them cool slightly on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from breaking or sticking.

How Do I Store Biscuits?

Biscuits are best eaten fresh on the day they are made, but they can also be stored for later consumption if needed. Here are some tips on how to store biscuits:

• Store in an airtight container: To keep your biscuits crisp and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid plastic bags or wrappers as they may trap moisture and make your biscuits soggy.
• Separate different flavours: If you have made different flavours of biscuits, store them in separate containers to prevent them from mixing their flavours or aromas.
• Label and date: To keep track of your biscuits, label and date them when you store them. This will help you remember when you made them and how long they will last.
• Consume within a week: Biscuits will generally last for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature. However, some flavours may lose their freshness or intensity over time. For best results, consume your biscuits within a week of making them.

How Do I Freeze and Thaw Mary Berry Biscuits?

If you want to make your biscuits ahead of time or have some leftovers, you can freeze them for longer storage. Here are some tips on how to freeze and thaw Mary Berry biscuits:

• Freeze the dough or the baked biscuits: You can freeze either the biscuit dough or the baked biscuits, depending on your preference. If you freeze the dough, you can bake it later when you want fresh biscuits. If you freeze the baked biscuits, you can reheat them quickly when you want to eat them.
• Wrap well: To prevent freezer burn and odors, wrap your biscuit dough or baked biscuits well in cling film or foil. You can also put them in a freezer bag or container for extra protection.
• Label and date: To keep track of your frozen biscuits, label and date them when you freeze them. This will help you remember what they are and how long they will last.
• Freeze for up to 3 months: Biscuit dough or baked biscuits will generally last for up to 3 months in the freezer. However, some flavors may lose their freshness or intensity over time. For best results, use your frozen biscuits within 3 months of freezing them.
• Thaw at room temperature: To thaw your frozen biscuit dough or baked biscuits, take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. Do not use the microwave or oven to thaw them as this may affect their texture or flavour.
• Bake or reheat as needed: If you have frozen biscuit dough, bake it as per the recipe instructions after thawing it. If you have frozen baked biscuits, reheat them in a low oven (about 150°C /fan 130°C/ gas 2) for 5–10 minutes until warm and crisp.

FAQs

How do I make gluten-free biscuits?

If you want to make gluten-free biscuits, you can substitute the plain flour and self-raising flour in the recipes with gluten-free versions. You can also add a pinch of xanthan gum to the dough to help it bind better. Alternatively, you can use other gluten-free flour such as almond flour, oat flour, or rice flour, but you may need to adjust the proportions and baking time accordingly.

How do I make vegan biscuits?

If you want to make vegan biscuits, you can replace the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, and use dairy-free chocolate chips and milk. You can also use aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) instead of eggs in the Viennese whirl biscuits. Just whisk it until frothy and use 3 tablespoons per egg.

How do I make sugar-free biscuits?

If you want to make sugar-free biscuits, you can use natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or stevia instead of caster sugar and icing sugar. However, you may need to reduce the amount of liquid in the dough or add more flour to achieve the right consistency. You can also use sugar-free chocolate chips and jam for the chocolate chip biscuits and Viennese whirl biscuits.

How do I make different shapes of biscuits?

If you want to make different shapes of biscuits, you can use cookie cutters or moulds to cut out the dough before baking. You can also roll out the dough and use a knife or a pizza cutter to cut out squares, rectangles, or triangles. You can also use a piping bag with different nozzles to pipe out different patterns of dough on the baking tray. Have fun and be creative!

Final Words

I hope you enjoyed this blog post about simple biscuit recipes by Mary Berry. These biscuits are easy to make, delicious to eat, and fun to share.