There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked biscuits wafting through the house during the lead-up to Christmas. These English Christmas biscuits are a timeless classic—crisp, buttery, and lightly sweet, with a touch of vanilla!
Perfect for sharing with family, giving as gifts, serving alongside a steaming cup of tea, or even leaving out for Santa and his reindeer. These biscuits are a must-have on your holiday baking list.
This recipe uses just a handful of simple ingredients—items you likely already have in your pantry. Yet, the result is anything but ordinary. Let’s walk through how to make these delightful treats, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the cosy warmth of Christmas cheer.
Ingredients:
- 150g (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
- 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 medium egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Icing sugar for dusting
- Royal icing for decoration
- Food colouring pens for children to decorate with (optional)
- Sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive touch
Preparation and Baking
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: Approximately 24 biscuits
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking trays with parchment paper. This ensures your biscuits bake evenly without sticking. - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer (or a wooden spoon if working by hand) to cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that signature biscuit texture. - Add the Egg and Vanilla
Crack the egg into the bowl and add the vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until fully combined. The vanilla adds a subtle, warming flavour that complements the buttery richness. - Incorporate the Flour
Gradually sift the flour into the bowl, mixing as you go. Once the dough starts to come together, switch to using your hands to knead it lightly until smooth. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the biscuits tough. - Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in cling film and chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out and cut. - Roll and Shape
Dust your work surface and rolling pin lightly with flour. Roll out the dough to about 5mm (1/4 inch) thickness. Use your favourite festive cookie cutters—stars, trees, or snowflakes work beautifully—to cut out shapes. Place them on the prepared baking trays, leaving a little space between each. - Bake to Perfection
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn a light golden colour around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as they can brown quickly. - Cool and Decorate
Allow the biscuits to cool on the trays for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar or decorate with icing and sprinkles for a festive flourish.
Tips for Success:
- Make It Festive: Personalize these biscuits by adding food colouring to the icing or sprinkling edible glitter on top for an extra Christmassy feel.
- Storage: Store the biscuits in an airtight container for up to a week. They also freeze well—just pop them in a freezer-safe bag and thaw at room temperature when needed.
- Family Fun: Involve kids in the decorating process for a fun holiday activity!
Why You’ll Love These Biscuits
These English Christmas biscuits strike the perfect balance of simplicity and tradition. Their delicate crunch and buttery flavour make them irresistible, while the vanilla adds a touch of elegance. Versatile enough to serve as a sweet treat after dinner or as a snack with coffee, they’re a festive staple that never goes out of style.
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you prefer plain biscuits dusted with sugar or elaborately decorated treats, this recipe provides the perfect canvas for your creativity. Plus, the short preparation time means you can easily whip up a batch even amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
Conclusion
Baking these English Christmas biscuits is more than just preparing a dessert—it’s a celebration of the season. From the moment you roll out the dough to the final touch of icing, every step is infused with the joy of creating something special for the people you care about. So, tie on your apron, preheat your oven, and let the festive baking begin. With this recipe, you’ll have a tin of biscuits ready to share (or savour yourself) in no time. Enjoy the holidays and happy baking!