Description
Mary Berry’s Easy Fork Biscuits are a simple, classic treat perfect for any occasion. These buttery, soft biscuits are quick to prepare and bake, with the option to drizzle melted chocolate for a delightful finishing touch. Ideal for tea time or a light snack, they come together using basic pantry ingredients and a straightforward method, making them accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
Scale
Biscuits
- 100 g (½ cup) butter, softened
- 150 g (1 cup) plain (all-purpose) flour + 2 tsp baking powder (or 150 g self-raising flour)
- 50 g (¼ cup) caster (fine granulated) sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Chocolate Drizzle (Optional)
- 50 g dark or milk chocolate, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and prepare two baking trays by lightly buttering them or lining them with baking paper.
- Beat Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer or hand whisk, beat the softened butter until it becomes creamy. Gradually incorporate the caster sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Form Dough: Add the flour and baking powder (if using plain flour) to the butter and sugar mixture. Also, add the vanilla extract if using. Mix all ingredients together until a smooth, cohesive dough forms.
- Shape Biscuits: Roll the dough into 16 walnut-sized balls. Place them on the baking trays spaced about 5 cm apart to allow for spreading.
- Create Signature Fork Marks: Dip a fork in water to prevent sticking and gently flatten each dough ball with the fork, creating the traditional fork biscuit look.
- Bake: Place the trays in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. The biscuits should be a very pale golden color when done, indicating a soft texture inside.
- Cool: Remove the biscuits from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps them firm up properly.
- Chocolate Drizzle (Optional): Once cooled, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the biscuits. Allow the chocolate to set by leaving the biscuits for about 30 minutes at room temperature before serving.
Notes
- Using self-raising flour instead of plain flour with baking powder is a convenient substitution.
- If you don’t have caster sugar, granulated sugar can be used but may affect texture slightly.
- For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough.
- The chocolate drizzle is optional but adds a lovely touch of indulgence.
- Store biscuits in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
