Renowned chef Mary Berry shares her irresistible recipe for cheese biscuits, a versatile culinary creation that can be enjoyed as a delightful snack or an enticing appetizer. These delectable biscuits, lovingly described by Berry as “a sort of savory shortbread,” offer a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures that will captivate your taste buds. With their ease of preparation and minimal cooking time, these cheese biscuits are the perfect culinary endeavor for home cooks of all levels.
As you embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll discover that these cheese biscuits require only a handful of readily available ingredients. The harmonious union of butter, semolina, self-raising flour, Parmesan cheese, mustard powder, and your choice of walnuts or other nuts creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
The method is as straightforward as the ingredients themselves. Simply combine all the ingredients except the poppy seeds in a food processor or blender, season generously with salt and pepper, and blitz until a cohesive dough forms. Alternatively, if you prefer a more hands-on approach, rub the diced butter and flour together in a mixing bowl until fine crumbs form. Gradually incorporate the remaining ingredients until a smooth dough is achieved.
Next, transform the dough into a cigar shape, approximately 12cm long and 3cm wide. Generously sprinkle poppy seeds over the dough, ensuring even distribution. Carefully wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 200C/180C fan/Gas 6 and line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper. Slice the chilled dough into 20 thin rounds and arrange them on the prepared tray. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the biscuits attain a pale golden hue and exhibit a slight firmness in the center.
Upon removing the biscuits from the oven, allow them to cool on the baking tray for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These delectable cheese biscuits are not only a culinary delight but also incredibly versatile. You can savor them on their own, allowing their cheesy goodness to take center stage. Alternatively, you can unleash your creativity by pairing them with your favorite toppings. A dollop of chutney, a layer of creamy cheese, or a generous slathering of butter – the possibilities are endless, ensuring that these biscuits will complement any occasion or palate.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering of friends and family or simply seeking a satisfying snack to accompany your favorite beverage, Mary Berry’s cheese biscuits are the perfect choice. Their irresistible flavor and ease of preparation make them a culinary gem that will be cherished by all who indulge in their deliciousness.
