Empire Biscuits Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that brings a burst of nostalgia along with delicious flavors, the Empire Biscuits Recipe is exactly what you need. These charming little sandwich cookies boast a soft, buttery base filled with sweet jam and topped with a glossy icing and a bright cherry or sprinkles. Perfectly balanced in taste and texture, Empire biscuits offer a comforting sweetness that feels like a warm hug from a dear friend. Making them at home is straightforward and immensely rewarding, whether for a cozy afternoon tea or a special celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first joyful step toward baking the perfect Empire Biscuits. The list is delightfully simple, yet every component plays an essential role in crafting this classic treat’s tender crumb, luscious filling, and shiny finish.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and soft bite characteristic of these biscuits.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• 1 large egg: Binds the dough and adds moisture.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Gives a subtle, fragrant warmth to the flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a light, soft texture by helping the dough rise slightly.
• 1/2 cup raspberry or strawberry jam: The luscious filling that makes each bite irresistible.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the smooth icing that crowns the biscuits.
• 2-3 tablespoons water or milk: Used to adjust icing consistency for easy spreading.
• Glacé cherries or colorful sprinkles (optional): Adds a joyful, festive touch to the finishing glaze.

How to Make Empire Biscuits Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your biscuits bake evenly without sticking or burning. This simple preparation sets you up for success, ensuring your biscuits come out perfectly every time.

Step 2: Creaming Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key to creating a tender, airy biscuit texture, as it incorporates air and helps dissolve the sugar for even sweetness.

Step 3: Adding Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the large egg and pure vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The egg adds moisture and structure, while the vanilla enriches the flavor with a comforting aroma that makes the dough simply irresistible.

Step 4: Mixing in Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to tougher biscuits. The goal here is a tender, delicate crumb that melts in your mouth.

Step 5: Rolling Out and Cutting the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter about 2-3 inches in diameter, cut out your biscuit shapes. This step invites a bit of creativity—try using cutters of different sizes or shapes for fun variation.

Step 6: Baking Until Lightly Golden

Arrange the cut biscuits on your prepared baking sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking. Once done, allow the biscuits to cool completely on a wire rack to maintain their delicate texture.

Step 7: Assembling the Biscuits with Jam

Spread about a teaspoon of your chosen raspberry or strawberry jam on the bottom side of half the biscuits. Carefully top them with the remaining biscuits to form charming sandwich cookies filled with sweet, fruity goodness.

Step 8: Preparing the Icing

Mix the powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of water or milk until you get a thick, spreadable icing. The consistency should be just right to coat the tops smoothly without dripping off. This icing is the signature glossy finish that makes these biscuits stand out.

Step 9: Icing and Decorating

Spread the icing generously over the top of each biscuit sandwich. While the icing is still wet, embellish with a halved glacé cherry or vibrant sprinkles to add a pop of color and a hint of festive flair. It’s these little decorative touches that make Empire Biscuits so delightful to look at as well as eat.

Step 10: Setting the Icing

Allow the icing to set completely before serving. This ensures a glossy, firm finish that holds the decorations in place and offers the perfect balance of sweetness with every bite.

How to Serve Empire Biscuits Recipe

Garnishes

While the classic glacé cherry on top is iconic, don’t be afraid to experiment with your garnishes. Brightly colored sprinkles add a fun, playful touch, while a light dusting of powdered sugar can impart an elegant finish. Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers also bring a surprising freshness and beauty to each biscuit plate.

Side Dishes

Empire biscuits pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee, making them an ideal companion for afternoon gatherings. Serve alongside simple bites like tea sandwiches or fresh fruit to balance the rich sweetness and create a delightful spread that feels like a mini celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, arrange your Empire biscuits on a tiered cake stand or layer them in decorative tins wrapped with ribbon. You can customize the icing colors to match themes or holidays, or even sandwich them with different flavors of jam for a variety of tastes. Presentation can turn these humble treats into stunning showstoppers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Empire biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They remain soft and delicious, but keep in mind that the icing is best fresh. To maintain the perfect texture, avoid stacking the biscuits directly on top of each other.

Freezing

You can freeze the biscuit sandwiches without icing by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and add fresh icing and decorations for the best experience.

Reheating

Since Empire biscuits are best served at room temperature, reheating is not usually necessary. However, if you prefer them slightly warm, let them rest out of the fridge for a bit. Avoid microwaving the icing, as it may melt and lose its shine.

FAQs

What type of jam works best in Empire Biscuits Recipe?

Raspberry or strawberry jam are classic choices because their sweetness and slight tartness complement the buttery biscuits perfectly. However, you can experiment with other fruity jams like apricot or raspberry-blackberry for a unique twist.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it, wrapped tightly, for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and makes rolling and cutting easier when you’re ready to bake.

Is there a gluten-free version of Empire Biscuits Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, so look for blends that include xanthan gum for best results.

How do I get the icing smooth and glossy?

The secret is in balancing the powdered sugar with just enough water or milk to achieve a thick, spreadable consistency. Spread quickly before it sets, and decorate while the icing is still wet to keep it looking fresh and vibrant.

Can I use other decorations besides glacé cherries?

Definitely! Colorful sprinkles, edible glitter, or finely chopped nuts can all add interesting textures and visual appeal. Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making Empire biscuits from scratch—the simple ingredients, the warm aroma filling your kitchen, and that moment you bite into a soft, jam-filled, icing-topped delight. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your pastry journey, this Empire Biscuits Recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite. So go ahead, dive in, and treat yourself to a batch of these classic Scottish gems!

Print