Mary Berry Fork Biscuits

Dive into the delightful world of Mary Berry's Fork Biscuits, a simple yet irresistibly buttery treat that has become a staple in British tea-time spreads. This recipe, a favorite of Mary Berry herself, is a testament to her prowess in creating delectable sweets that are both easy to make and wonderfully satisfying.

Brief Description of the Recipe

Mary Berry's Fork Biscuits are renowned for their simplicity and delightful texture. Originating from an old Cordon Bleu cookery book, Mary Berry has been perfecting this recipe for years, ensuring it's a foolproof addition to any baker's repertoire. These biscuits are characterized by their tender, buttery crumb and a light golden finish, achieved by a gentle press with a fork before baking.

Cultural or Historical Context

Fork biscuits hold a special place in British baking traditions, often served during afternoon tea as a light, sweet complement to tea and coffee. Mary Berry, a cherished figure in British culinary culture, has contributed significantly to popularizing these biscuits with her straightforward approach to baking.

Ingredients List

• Butter: 100g, softened
• Caster Sugar: 50g
• Self-Raising Flour: 150g

You'll also need two baking trays to prepare this recipe.

Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat your oven and prepare your baking trays with a light buttering.
2. Start by creaming the softened butter, then gradually incorporate the sugar and flour to form a cohesive dough.
3. Shape the dough into small, walnut-sized balls and arrange them on your trays, ensuring ample space between each.
4. Dip a fork in water and gently press each dough ball to flatten and create the characteristic fork pattern.
5. Bake until they achieve a pale golden hue, then allow to cool on a wire rack.

Storage and Reheating

These biscuits store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can be enjoyed at room temperature, making them a convenient treat for unexpected guests or a quick snack.

Nutritional Information

Each biscuit is relatively light, with the main caloric content coming from butter. They contain a moderate amount of sugar and are a good source of carbohydrates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use plain flour instead of self-raising? Yes, but you'll need to add baking powder to ensure the biscuits rise slightly.
• Can I add flavors to these biscuits? Absolutely! Lemon zest, chocolate chips, or vanilla are popular additions that can be mixed into the dough.
• Are fork biscuits suitable for freezing? Yes, you can freeze the baked biscuits or the dough. If freezing the dough, shape it into balls first for easier baking later on.

Embracing the simplicity and elegance of Mary Berry's Fork Biscuits is a delightful way to add a touch of British tradition to your baking. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe promises a rewarding experience with delicious results.

Original recipe by Mary Berry from "My Kitchen Table: 100 Sweet Treats and Puds"​​​​​​.