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Five Biscuit ideas to celebrate Biscuit Day 2021


By Federica Stefani

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There is a biscuit for every palate.
There is a biscuit for every palate.

May 29 is a date which should be noted on the calendar of everyone with a sweet tooth, as it marks Biscuit Day in the UK.

A simple yet versatile treat coming in all shapes and forms, biscuits are of ancient origin, dating back to the Neolithic era, when they were probably baked on stones, and becoming more important across military and merchants of the Egyptian, Greek and Roman empires, as they made an excellent sustainment on long journeys.

The name, borrowed from the French word bisquit, is of Latin origin, indicating bread cooked twice.

It goes without saying that the best way to celebrate is to treat yourself to some of your favourite biscuits – and, if you enjoy cooking, having a home-made biscuit party in your kitchen is the best option.

To give you some inspiration, here are some of the most beloved Scottish biscuits.

Shortbread

Homebaked shortbread biscuits on wooden board with plates and cup of tea in the back (Selective Focus, Focus on the front of the upper cookies)
Homebaked shortbread biscuits on wooden board with plates and cup of tea in the back (Selective Focus, Focus on the front of the upper cookies)

Everything is better with a bit of butter - and shortbreads, the staple biscuit for which Scotland is renowned worldwide, doesn’t shy away from this ingredient. You may not know that, before the introduction of sugar to the UK, this was not a sweet treat (but was still rich in his lard or butter content).

With plenty of traditional recipes around, shortbread are a simple yet delicious add to an afternoon tea.

Empire Biscuits

Empire shortbread sandwich cookies
Empire shortbread sandwich cookies

This delicious treat takes the shortbread to another level by sandwiching jam between two biscuits and, of course, adding the icing on top!

The name is reminiscent of the empires of Central Europe, probably with a hint to the similar Linzer Biscuits, popular in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Although it doesn’t have its roots in Scotland, this biscuit is still incredibly popular nowadays (and for a reason!)

Abernethy Biscuit

A simple biscuit which was originally designed to improve digestion, they take their name from their creator and not from the Scottish town. A great choice for those who love an old-fashioned treat, they are great when paired with jams or enjoyed with a milky tea.

Parliament cakes

Another take on shortbread, Parliament cakes or parlies were first produced in Edinburgh by a lady known as Mrs Flockhart and they take their name as they were supplied to members of the Parliament from her Waverley shop. These biscuits are for those who love heavy ginger flavours in their sweets, and the characteristic dark brown colour comes from the golden syrup or treacle used to make them.

Melting Moments

Homemade Melting Moments.
Homemade Melting Moments.

Vanilla and oats meet to create a tea-time staple. As the name suggests, they are made to melt in your mouth, with a good amount of butter making this process easier and even more delightful. The mixture of butter, eggs, flour, baking powder, vanilla extract and oatmeal is then coated in oats (or coconut sprinkles to add a twist) and topped with a glacé cherry.

Hungry yet? Enjoy your biscuit party!


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