Empire Biscuits Recipe

If you’re craving a delightful treat that feels like a warm hug from your childhood, then you absolutely must try this Empire Biscuits Recipe. These charming sandwich cookies are a perfect balance of buttery shortbread, sweet jam, and glossy icing topped with a cherry or sprinkles. Each bite melts in your mouth, bringing together crisp, soft, and sweet textures in such a satisfying way. Whether you’re making them for afternoon tea, a cozy gathering, or just a personal indulgence, Empire Biscuits offer a nostalgic taste that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are star players in the Empire Biscuits Recipe, each adding an essential touch of flavor, texture, or color. Don’t let the simplicity fool you; together, they create a treat worth every crumb.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the biscuit, providing structure and that tender crumb we love.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps create the perfect flaky texture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and aids in achieving a light golden color.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds a bit of moisture for softness.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, inviting flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives a gentle lift so the biscuits aren’t too dense.
• 1/2 cup raspberry or strawberry jam: The fruity, tangy filling that makes these sandwiches shine.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The core ingredient for that smooth, sweet icing glaze.
• 2-3 tablespoons water or milk: Used to adjust the icing to just the right spreadable consistency.
• Glacé cherries or colorful sprinkles (optional): Classic finishing touches adding both charm and a pop of color.

How to Make Empire Biscuits Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your biscuits bake evenly and don’t stick. This simple step sets the stage for baking success.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy is where the magic starts. This process aerates the mixture, giving your biscuits a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s essential in this recipe.

Step 3: Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla

Next up, beat in your egg and vanilla extract until fully blended. These liquid ingredients add moisture and deepen the flavor, balancing the buttery richness perfectly.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients to Form Dough

Gradually stir in the flour and baking powder. Mix gently until a soft dough forms—overworking it can make the biscuits tough, so be a little gentle here to keep them tender and delicate.

Step 5: Roll and Cut Out Biscuits

Dust a clean surface lightly with flour, then roll your dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter roughly 2-3 inches in diameter to cut out your biscuit shapes—uniformity helps them bake evenly and look beautiful.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Arrange your unbaked biscuits on the prepared trays, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges start turning a pretty light golden brown. Remove carefully and cool completely on a wire rack so they’re ready for the next step.

Step 7: Assemble Your Empire Biscuits Sandwiches

Spread about a teaspoon of your favorite raspberry or strawberry jam on the underside of half your biscuits. Then gently press the remaining biscuits on top to create delightful little sandwich cookies—this jam layer is the heart of your Empire Biscuits Recipe.

Step 8: Mix and Spread the Icing

Combine powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of water or milk until you create a thick but spreadable icing. Bright white and smooth icing is a signature feature, so get it just right before you spread it generously over the tops of your biscuits.

Step 9: Decorate with Cherries or Sprinkles

While the icing is still wet, press a halved glacé cherry in the center of each biscuit or sprinkle on your favorite colorful decorations. This not only adds that classic look but also a touch of extra sweetness and visual appeal.

Step 10: Let Your Empire Biscuits Set

Allow the icing to set completely before diving in. This final wait ensures your biscuits hold their shape and your icing stays beautifully glossy and intact.

How to Serve Empire Biscuits Recipe

Garnishes

For a charming presentation, keep it traditional with bright glacé cherries atop each biscuit. Alternatively, festive sprinkles or even edible glitter can bring a playful or elegant twist. Fresh mint leaves placed nearby add a lovely pop of green and fresh aroma for an extra-special serving touch.

Side Dishes

Empire Biscuits are delightful at any tea time or snack break. Serve alongside a steaming cup of black tea, coffee, or even a silky hot chocolate to balance their sugary sweetness. Light fruit salads or a small assortment of nuts can provide contrast without overpowering the delicate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these biscuit sandwiches on a tiered cake stand for a classic afternoon tea vibe. You can also package them in decorative boxes for gifting, or arrange them on a platter surrounded by fresh berries for a striking dessert centerpiece. These little biscuits are as charming to look at as they are to eat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store your Empire Biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature to keep the shortbread crisp and the jam fresh. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days—perfect if you want to savor them over a few afternoons.

Freezing

Love these biscuits but want to prep ahead? You can freeze the plain baked biscuit halves before assembling the sandwiches. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag; they will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw completely before adding jam, icing, and decorations.

Reheating

While these biscuits taste best fresh or at room temperature, if you prefer a slightly warm treat, gently warm in a low oven (about 275°F / 135°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve their texture and icing appearance.

FAQs

Can I use other jams for the filling?

Absolutely! Raspberry and strawberry are traditional, but apricot, blackberry, or even marmalade can work nicely. Just choose a jam with a nice balance of sweetness and tartness to complement the buttery biscuit.

What if I don’t have glacé cherries?

No worries at all—colorful sprinkles, a small dollop of jam, or even a tiny piece of dried fruit can make a perfect topping. The goal is simply to add that festive finishing touch that makes your Empire Biscuits feel special.

Can these biscuits be made gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures equally. Be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well to keep everything safe for anyone with sensitivities.

Is it possible to make the icing thicker or thinner?

Definitely! If your icing is too runny, add more powdered sugar slowly until it thickens. If it’s too thick, add a few drops of water or milk at a time to reach the perfect spreadable consistency for your Empire Biscuits Recipe.

How long does the icing take to set?

It usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour at room temperature for the icing to fully harden. Avoid stacking or moving the biscuits during this time to keep the icing smooth and flawless.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and joyful about making and enjoying an Empire Biscuits Recipe. These charming, buttery, jam-filled delights bring a bit of British baking tradition right into your kitchen, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring quietly at home. Give them a try and watch how quickly they become a beloved staple you’ll reach for again and again.

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