These delightful fork biscuits are a classic treat that combines simplicity with deliciousness. With minimal ingredients and a few easy steps, these biscuits are buttery, crumbly, and perfect for anyone craving a light snack or dessert. Whether enjoyed plain or with a tempting drizzle of chocolate, they’re a treat you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy recipe for fork biscuits brings together the goodness of simple pantry ingredients with a method that’s foolproof. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these biscuits are a breeze to prepare. They have the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, with a light, crumbly base that melts in your mouth. And with the option to drizzle chocolate on top, they are customizable to suit your taste. These biscuits are also a fun, kid-friendly baking project that can be enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later snacking.

Ingredients

• 100 g (½ cup) butter

• 150 g (1 cup) plain flour (all-purpose)

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 50 g (¼ cup) caster sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional

• 50 g (1 ¾ oz) dark or milk chocolate, melted (for serving, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F (320°F if using a fan oven). Lightly butter or line two baking trays with parchment paper.

2. Beat the butter: In a bowl, use an electric whisk to soften the butter. Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

3. Mix in the dry ingredients: Add the flour and baking powder, and mix until a dough forms. If using, stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Shape the biscuits: Roll the dough into 16 walnut-sized balls and place them on the prepared trays, spacing them about 5 cm apart.

5. Flatten with a fork: Dip a fork in water and gently press down on each ball to flatten it. This prevents the fork from sticking to the dough.

6. Bake: Place the biscuits in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until they turn a very pale golden color.

7. Cool: Transfer the biscuits to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Optional chocolate drizzle: If desired, melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and drizzle it over the cooled biscuits. Let the chocolate set for about 30 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 biscuits

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Butter Substitute: Use margarine or a dairy-free alternative to make this recipe suitable for different dietary preferences.

• Flavour Additions: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for an extra flavor twist.

• Chocolate Chips: If you prefer a chocolatey texture, mix mini chocolate chips into the dough instead of drizzling melted chocolate.

• Flour Substitute: You can swap plain flour for self-raising flour and omit the baking powder for a slightly different texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

• Freezing: These biscuits can be frozen both before and after baking. To freeze, roll the dough into balls, place them in a freezer bag or airtight container, and store for up to 3 months. If frozen unbaked, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

• Reheating: To refresh biscuits, heat them in a 150°C oven (300°F) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use self-raising flour instead of plain flour?

Yes, you can use 150 g of self-raising flour instead of plain flour and omit the baking powder.

2. How can I prevent the dough from sticking to my hands?

If the dough is too soft, try chilling it in the fridge for 15 minutes to make it easier to handle.

3. Can I make these biscuits dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative to make the biscuits dairy-free.

4. How do I store the biscuits?

Store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer storage.

5. How can I make these biscuits more flavorful?

You can add a teaspoon of cinnamon, cocoa powder, or even citrus zest to the dough for added flavor.

6. Can I freeze these biscuits?

Yes, you can freeze the biscuits both before and after baking. Freeze unbaked dough balls for convenience, and bake them fresh later.

7. What’s the best way to melt the chocolate for drizzling?

Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring between each burst, until smooth.

8. How long do the biscuits last?

When stored in an airtight container, the biscuits should last for up to a week. You can freeze them for up to 3 months for long-term storage.

9. Can I add nuts or other toppings to the biscuits?

Yes, you can experiment with adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even mini marshmallows to the dough for added texture and flavor.

10. Can I use granulated sugar instead of caster sugar?

Caster sugar is best for a fine, smooth texture, but granulated sugar can be used as a substitute in this recipe if that’s what you have on hand.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s easy fork biscuits are a delightful, simple recipe that anyone can master. With their light, buttery texture and the ability to customize them with chocolate drizzle or other flavor variations, they make for the perfect homemade snack or treat. Whether you’re baking with family, looking for a quick dessert, or just craving something comforting, these biscuits are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.