Mary Berry Empire Biscuits Recipe

Mary Berry’s Empire Biscuits are a delightful classic treat—two buttery shortbread-style biscuits sandwiched with raspberry jam and topped with a layer of sweet icing and a cherry or jelly sweet. These traditional Scottish biscuits are perfect for teatime, holiday baking, or gifting, and they’re surprisingly simple to make from scratch.

What are Mary Berry Empire Biscuits?

Empire biscuits are short, crumbly sandwich cookies made from plain butter biscuit dough, joined with jam and topped with smooth white icing and a decorative finish. They’re crisp yet tender, sweet, and beautifully eye-catching—popular at bake sales and afternoon teas.

Other Popular Recipes

• Delia Smith’s Damson Jam
• Delia Smith Blackcurrant Jam
• Delia Smith’s Strawberry Jam
• Delia Smith Chilli Jam

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Simple and Elegant – Minimal ingredients with stunning results.
• Perfect for Celebrations or Gifting – A charming addition to any tray.
• Classic British Bake – A favorite from childhood across the UK.
• Versatile Decoration – Top with cherries, sprinkles, or jelly sweets.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Stores well for several days.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Empire Biscuits

For the Biscuits:

• Plain Flour (250g / 2 cups) – The base for a tender crumb.
• Butter (175g, unsalted and softened) – Adds richness and flavor.
• Caster Sugar (75g / ⅓ cup) – Sweetens and adds a slight crunch.
• Cornflour (25g / 2 tbsp, optional) – For extra melt-in-the-mouth texture.
• Vanilla Extract (½ tsp) – Adds a subtle flavor lift.
• Pinch of Salt

For the Filling & Topping:

• Raspberry Jam (about 5 tbsp) – Traditional and brightly flavored.
• Icing Sugar (150g / 1¼ cups, sifted) – For the glaze.
• Cold Water (2–3 tbsp) – To make the icing.
• Glacé Cherries, Jelly Tots, or Sprinkles – For decoration.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl and wooden spoon or stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet lined with parchment
• Round biscuit or cookie cutter (about 5–6cm)
• Wire rack for cooling

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Empire Biscuits

Step 1: Make the Biscuit Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas 4.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract, then sift in the flour, cornflour, and salt.
4. Mix until a soft, smooth dough forms. If crumbly, gently knead with your hands to bring it together.

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Biscuits

1. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 5mm thickness.
2. Use a round cutter to stamp out pairs of biscuits. Re-roll trimmings as needed.
3. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking tray, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 3: Bake the Biscuits

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden at the edges.
2. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Assemble the Biscuits

1. Once cool, spread a little raspberry jam on the underside of half the biscuits.
2. Sandwich with the remaining biscuits, pressing gently to stick.

Step 5: Ice and Decorate

1. In a bowl, mix the icing sugar with 2–3 tbsp cold water until smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
2. Spoon or spread a little icing on top of each sandwiched biscuit.
3. Immediately top each one with a halved glacé cherry, jelly sweet, or sprinkles.
4. Let the icing set for at least 30 minutes before serving or storing.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Empire Biscuits

• A Hot Cup of Tea – A timeless pairing.
• Afternoon Tea Spread – Serve alongside scones and finger sandwiches.
• Vanilla or Berry Ice Cream – As a biscuit topping or side treat.
• Coffee or Cappuccino – Perfect balance to their sweetness.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Empire Biscuits

• Chill the Dough if it becomes too soft—this helps it hold its shape.
• Keep an Even Thickness while rolling to ensure uniform baking.
• Use a Piping Bag for a neater icing presentation.
• Let the Biscuits Cool Fully before icing to prevent them from running.
• Use Seedless Jam for a smoother sandwich.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Empire Biscuits

• Lemon Glaze – Add lemon juice to the icing sugar for a zesty finish.
• Chocolate Drizzle – Decorate with melted chocolate instead of icing.
• Use Different Jams – Try strawberry, blackcurrant, or apricot for variety.
• Add Almond Extract – A touch in the dough gives a Bakewell twist.
• Festive Version – Use red and green sprinkles for holiday flair.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Empire Biscuits

• Store in an Airtight Container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Separate Layers with Baking Paper to prevent sticking.
• Do Not Refrigerate – It may make them go soft.
• Freeze Unassembled Biscuits – Bake the biscuits and freeze before filling and icing.

Nutrition Value (per biscuit, approx.)

• Calories: ~200
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugar: 12g
• Fat: 9g
• Protein: 2g

FAQs

Can I freeze Empire biscuits?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the baked biscuits before filling and icing. Once assembled, they may become soft or the icing may weep during thawing. Freeze the biscuits in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

How do I stop the icing from running off the top?

Ensure the biscuits are completely cool before icing. Also, make the icing thick enough to spread, not too runny. Let it sit for a few minutes before applying to thicken slightly.

What kind of jam works best for Empire biscuits?

Seedless raspberry jam is traditional, but you can also use strawberry, apricot, or blackcurrant. Make sure it’s not too runny so the biscuits hold together well.

How long do Empire biscuits stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for about 4–5 days. For best texture, enjoy within the first 2–3 days.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Empire Biscuits are as delicious as they are nostalgic—buttery, sweet, and perfectly crisp with a jammy centre and a soft icing top.

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