Spiced Welsh dragon shortbread

Delve into the world of baking with a recipe that marries tradition with a touch of whimsy: the Spiced Welsh Dragon Shortbread. This unique treat combines the classic, buttery goodness of shortbread with a spicy twist, all shaped into the iconic Welsh dragon, making it a delightful addition to any tea table or festive celebration. This recipe was originally shared by Michael Sheen and can be found as part of Series 2 on BBC Food and BeebRecipes.co.uk archives​​​​.

Spiced Welsh Dragon Shortbread: A Brief Overview

This vegetarian-friendly shortbread is not your ordinary biscuit. It's a playful nod to Welsh culture, shaped like a dragon and infused with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. The recipe makes for a fun baking project that yields 24 beautifully decorated biscuits, perfect for sharing.

Cultural and Historical Context

The dragon is a symbol deeply embedded in Welsh folklore and history, prominently featured on the national flag. This recipe pays homage to Wales' rich heritage, offering a modern take on traditional shortbread by incorporating spices and a unique shape.

Ingredients for the Spiced Welsh Dragon Shortbread

• For the Shortbread:
  • 280g unsalted butter, softened
  • 140g caster sugar
  • 280g plain flour
  • 140g cornflour
  • ¾ tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp ground cloves
  • A pinch of fine salt
• For the Red Water Icing:
  • 400g icing sugar, sifted
  • 150ml boiling water
  • Red food colouring

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by preheating your oven and lining baking trays with parchment.
2. Cream together butter and sugar, then sift in the flours and spices, mixing to a crumbly texture before kneading into a soft dough.
3. Roll out the dough, cut into dragon shapes, and bake until golden-brown.
4. Cool the shortbreads before decorating with red icing to bring your Welsh dragons to life.

Storage and Reheating

Store your Spiced Welsh Dragon Shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. There's usually no need to reheat, but if you prefer them warm, a quick blast in the oven on a low setting will do.

Nutritional Information

The exact nutritional values depend on the size of the biscuits but expect a high content of carbs and fats due to butter and sugar. For detailed nutritional information, calculating based on specific ingredients used is recommended.

FAQ about the Spiced Welsh Dragon Shortbread

• Can I use alternative shapes if I don't have a dragon-shaped cutter? Yes, while the dragon shape adds a touch of Welsh pride, any shape will do.
• Is it possible to make the shortbread less sweet? Adjusting the sugar in the shortbread dough might affect the texture, but you can reduce the icing if preferred.
• How long does the shortbread last? Properly stored, they can last up to a week.

The Spiced Welsh Dragon Shortbread is a testament to the creativity and cultural pride that can be expressed through baking. Whether for a special occasion or a regular afternoon tea, these biscuits are sure to charm and delight any who taste them.

Original recipe attributed to Michael Sheen, available on BBC Food and BeebRecipes.co.uk archives.