Mary Berry’s Fork Biscuits Recipe: Simple and Sweet
Mary Berry’s classic fork biscuits are a timeless treat. This recipe comes from her book “My Kitchen Table: 100 Sweet Treats and Puds”. It uses just three ingredients: butter, caster sugar, and self-raising flour.
These biscuits are perfect for new bakers. You can make about 16 biscuits in 15-20 minutes. Bake them at 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4. They’re vegan, dairy-free, and nut-free.
Fork biscuits are great for afternoon tea or weekend baking. They pair well with a cosy cuppa. Their golden-brown colour and crumbly texture make them irresistible.
Mary Berry’s fork biscuits are a beloved British classic. They’re easy to make for both new and experienced bakers. Give this simple recipe a try today.
Want to explore more British baking? Check out the delightful world of British baking for more tasty treats.
The Legacy of Mary Berry’s Classic Biscuit Recipe
Mary Berry’s iconic fork biscuits originate from the prestigious Cordon Bleu cooking school. This classic British baking tradition has endured for generations. It has won the hearts of home bakers across the nation.
Related Posts:
Origins from the Cordon Bleu
Mary Berry, the UK’s “Queen of Cakes”, honed her skills at the renowned Cordon Bleu. There, she crafted her famous fork biscuit recipe. These biscuits have become a beloved staple in British baking.
Why These Biscuits Became a British Favourite
Mary Berry’s fork biscuits are popular due to their simplicity and superb taste. They stand out amidst complex recipes for their straightforward approach. These biscuits consistently produce delectable treats that evoke warmth and nostalgia.
British bakers trust Mary Berry’s recipes for reliably tasty results. Her role in the Great British Bake Off has boosted the recipe’s fame. This has cemented its place as a beloved classic in British baking.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Fork Biscuits
Mary Berry’s classic fork biscuit recipe uses just a few key ingredients. Butter, caster sugar, and self-raising flour create the perfect balance of tender, flaky biscuits. These simple baking staples make a beloved British favourite.
You’ll need 100g of softened butter for the perfect consistency. Room temperature butter blends seamlessly into the dough, creating a delightfully buttery texture. Add 50g of caster sugar, a finer version of granulated sugar.
This achieves the signature sweetness that makes these biscuits so moreish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 100g (1/2 cup) |
| Caster Sugar | 50g (1/4 cup) |
| Self-Raising Flour | 150g (1 cup) |
The recipe calls for 150g of self-raising flour. This flour contains baking powder and salt, making it perfect for tender biscuits. No self-raising flour? Make your own by adding baking powder and salt to all-purpose flour.
These simple baking ingredients are key to Mary Berry’s delightful fork biscuits. Get ready to savour buttery, sweet, and fluffy perfection in every bite.
Mary Berry Fork Biscuits Recipe: Step-by-Step Method
Mary Berry’s classic fork biscuit recipe creates tender, golden treats perfect for any occasion. Let’s explore the simple steps to baking perfection.
Preparing the Dough
Preheat your oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4. In a large bowl, cream 100g of butter and 50g of caster sugar until light and fluffy.
Gradually mix in 150g of self-raising flour until the dough comes together. Don’t worry if it’s crumbly; you can easily shape it with your hands.
Shaping and Marking Techniques
Form 16 equal-sized walnut-shaped balls from the dough. Place them on a buttered baking tray, leaving space between each ball.
Use a fork dipped in water to press down on each ball. This creates the signature fork markings on top of the biscuits.
Baking Tips for Golden Results
Bake the biscuits for 15-20 minutes until pale golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Once done, let the biscuits cool on a wire rack before serving. The water-dipped fork technique works brilliantly for flattening the dough.
Create Mary Berry’s delightful fork biscuits with just three ingredients and a few easy steps. These sweet treats make a perfect snack or teatime companion.
You can also give them as a thoughtful homemade gift. Enjoy the timeless flavour of this classic baking method and fork biscuit technique.
Storage Tips and Freezing Instructions
Mary Berry’s fork biscuits are a delight. With proper storage, you can enjoy their flavour and texture for days. Let’s explore how to keep them fresh.
Store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature. This preserves their crispness for up to three days. You’ll have a tasty treat ready whenever you fancy one.
For longer storage, use your freezer. Cool the biscuits completely first. Then, place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to three months this way.
To enjoy frozen biscuits, let them thaw at room temperature. This keeps their shape and texture intact. Soon, you’ll be munching on delicious fork biscuits, regardless of when you baked them.
| Storage Method | Maximum Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Airtight Container (Room Temperature) | 3 Days |
| Frozen (Airtight Container or Bag) | 3 Months |
These storage tips help you savour Mary Berry’s fork biscuits for longer. Fresh or frozen, they’ll bring a taste of British comfort to your day. Enjoy these homemade treats whenever you like.
Creative Variations and Flavour Additions
Mary Berry’s classic fork biscuits are a beloved British staple. The simple recipe allows for creative variations and flavour additions. Bakers can enhance the basic dough to suit diverse tastes and preferences.
Citrus and Spice Options
Try adding fresh citrus zest for a zesty twist. Lemon, lime, or orange zest will lend a refreshing, summery flair. For cosy autumnal flavours, a dash of ground cinnamon works wonders.
Chocolate and Fruit Variations
Chocolate lovers can add cocoa powder or fold in chocolate chips. Dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or diced apricots provide pockets of sweetness. These additions offer delightful texture contrasts throughout the biscuits.
Vanilla extract adds fragrant richness to the biscuits. Salted caramel brings caramelised notes. Spices like nutmeg and ginger offer warmth. These options allow bakers to personalise the classic recipe.
“Baking is all about experimentation and having fun with flavours. The simple fork biscuit recipe is a wonderful canvas for unleashing your inner pastry artist.”
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s fork biscuits recipe is a timeless British baking classic. It uses just three ingredients and simple steps, perfect for all bakers. The recipe’s versatility allows for many flavour variations, making it a household favourite.
These British treats are delightful with tea or as a sweet snack. The Mary Berry’s fork biscuits continue to charm food lovers everywhere.
Uneven heat distribution in ovens can cause burnt bottoms and uneven baking. This often stems from incorrect rack placement or poor oven calibration. Using an oven thermometer helps ensure the right temperature.
Adjusting cooking times and temperatures based on your oven’s quirks is crucial. These steps are key to successful easy baking outcomes.
Mary Berry’s fork biscuits showcase the charm of simple British baking. Their adaptability and ease of making ensure their ongoing popularity. This classic treat will surely delight future generations of bakers.
FAQ
What is the origin of Mary Berry’s fork biscuits recipe?
The Cordon Bleu cooking school birthed Mary Berry’s fork biscuits recipe. Its simplicity and delightful taste have made it a favourite for years.
Why are these biscuits so popular among British bakers?
Mary Berry, the UK’s Queen of Cakes, rose to global fame through the Great British Bake Off. Her reliable recipes yield excellent results, making these fork biscuits a hit with British bakers.
What are the essential ingredients for making Mary Berry’s fork biscuits?
You’ll need 100g softened butter, 50g caster sugar, and 150g self-raising flour. North American bakers can use regular granulated sugar instead. Room temperature butter is key for the right consistency.
How do you make Mary Berry’s fork biscuits?
Preheat oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in flour gradually.
Form 16 walnut-sized dough balls and place them on buttered baking trays. Flatten each with a fork dipped in water. Bake for 15-20 minutes until pale golden.
How can you store and freeze Mary Berry’s fork biscuits?
Keep fork biscuits fresh in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool biscuits completely before freezing in an airtight container.
What flavour variations can you make with Mary Berry’s fork biscuits?
Spice up the basic recipe with various flavours. Add citrus zest or ground cinnamon for a twist. Chocolate lovers can mix in cocoa powder or chocolate chips.
Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries work well too. Try vanilla extract, salted caramel, or spices like nutmeg and ginger.
