If you’re looking for a biscuit recipe that brings together nostalgia, buttery sweetness, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, then Custard Biscuits are the treat you need in your baking line-up! These classic Australian cookies boast a gentle vanilla aroma with that unmistakable golden hue, thanks to custard powder woven right into the dough. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or making your first batch, there’s something purely joyful about pulling a tray of Custard Biscuits out of the oven, their crisscross tops dusted in powdered sugar. This article will walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, creative serving ideas, storage tips, and every FAQ you could dream of—so you’ll feel fully equipped to bake your own unforgettable batch of Custard Biscuits.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best Custard Biscuits start with a handful of pantry staples, each playing a starring role. Take a moment to appreciate how these simple, classic ingredients come together to create biscuits with tenderness, beautiful flavor, and a gorgeous golden color.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone of these biscuits, giving them structure without heaviness.
- Custard powder: The secret ingredient for that signature color and distinct vanilla-custard taste.
- Unsalted butter, softened: High-quality butter adds rich flavor and the melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love.
- Powdered sugar: Brings sweetness and a fine, tender crumb—plus it dissolves easily for smooth dough.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the vanilla notes in the custard powder and rounds out the flavor.
- Extra powdered sugar (optional): A dusting on top makes each biscuit feel even more special and dessert-like.
How to Make Custard Biscuits
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven gets up to temperature, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your Custard Biscuits will bake evenly and lift off easily, without sticking or breaking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine your softened unsalted butter with the powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat this mixture until it’s light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial for that delicate, “meltaway” texture—so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Add the Vanilla
Drizzle in your vanilla extract and give everything another quick mix. Vanilla might seem subtle, but it really rounds out the flavor, especially pairing beautifully with the custard powder you’ll add next.
Step 4: Sift in Dry Ingredients
Sift together your all-purpose flour and custard powder, then add them to the butter mixture. Sifting helps incorporate air and ensures your dough is perfectly smooth, preventing any pesky lumps. Stir gently until everything comes together in a soft, cohesive dough.
Step 5: Shape the Biscuits
Pinch off teaspoons of dough and roll them into small balls using your hands. Place each ball on your prepared baking sheet, leaving room for a little spread. Next, take a fork and gently press down on each ball, creating a classic crisscross pattern that looks beautiful and helps the biscuits bake evenly.
Step 6: Bake
Slide your baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The biscuits should still be pale on top. Resist the urge to overbake—this keeps your Custard Biscuits irresistibly soft and tender.
Step 7: Cool and Dust
Let the biscuits cool on the baking tray for a few minutes (they’ll be fragile while warm), then carefully transfer to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, sprinkle with extra powdered sugar for an elegant, sweet finish—if desired. Now, all that’s left is to brew a cup of tea and dive in!
How to Serve Custard Biscuits
Garnishes
For a touch of magic, dust your Custard Biscuits with a shower of powdered sugar just before serving. If you want to get a little fancier, a light drizzle of melted white chocolate or a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios can add color and crunch, turning a humble biscuit into an eye-catching teatime treat.
Side Dishes
These custardy delights shine brightest alongside a cup of English breakfast tea, creamy hot chocolate, or a strong espresso. On hot days, pair Custard Biscuits with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve alongside a bowl of fresh berries—their slightly sweet flavor makes them a perfect match for fresh, juicy fruits.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, try sandwiching two biscuits together with a swirl of vanilla buttercream or a spoonful of strawberry jam, creating a Custard Biscuit “melting moment.” Or, stack them in a rustic jar tied with ribbon as a homemade edible gift. However you serve them, don’t be surprised if they disappear quickly!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Custard Biscuits tasting bakery-fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crisp-yet-tender for up to a week, as long as you keep them away from humidity and direct sunlight.
Freezing
Good news for the forward-thinking baker: Custard Biscuits freeze beautifully! Pop cooled biscuits in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep for up to three months and will thaw quickly at room temperature whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
If you love your biscuits ever-so-slightly warm, reheat them in a 250°F (120°C) oven for about 5 minutes. This brings the buttery aroma right back and revives their perfect texture—just keep an eye out so they don’t overbrown.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter in Custard Biscuits?
Yes, you can swap in margarine for unsalted butter, but you may notice a slight difference in flavor and texture. Butter offers a richer taste and the most tender crumb, but margarine will still yield a delicious result.
Is there a gluten-free version of Custard Biscuits?
Absolutely! Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Just make sure your custard powder is gluten-free as well—most are, but it’s always good to double-check those labels.
What is custard powder, and can I make my own?
Custard powder is a mix of cornstarch, flavoring (usually vanilla), and yellow coloring. If you can’t find it, whisk together equal parts cornstarch and powdered sugar, with a dash of vanilla and a pinch of turmeric for color. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it’s a clever workaround in a pinch!
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins to the biscuit dough?
Definitely! Try mixing in a handful of mini chocolate chips or finely grated citrus zest for a twist. Just don’t add too much extra moisture, or the dough might become sticky—if it does, chill briefly before rolling out your Custard Biscuits.
How do I keep my Custard Biscuits from spreading too much when baking?
If your biscuits come out flatter than you’d like, make sure your butter isn’t melted (just softened), and consider chilling the shaped biscuits for 10 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their charming round shape with those classic fork marks.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something special about a plate of Custard Biscuits sitting on your kitchen bench—their golden color, simple sweetness, and tender bite always seem to spark joy. Give them a try, share them with friends, and watch them disappear one by one. Happy baking!
Print
Custard Biscuits Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 biscuits
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these scrumptious Custard Biscuits. A classic Australian treat, these buttery delights are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) custard powder
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup (40g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift in the flour and custard powder, then stir until a soft dough forms.
- Shape and bake: Roll teaspoons of dough into balls, flatten with a fork, and place on the baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cool and serve: Let the biscuits cool on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- You can sandwich two biscuits together with buttercream or jam for a treat similar to melting moments.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 biscuit
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
