Preparation of Biscuits

Biscuits and biscuit like products have been consumed by humans for hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years. Although in existence for a very long time, the difference, the difference between a biscuit, cookie and a cracker is still often less than clear. This is due to a recognized overlap between the boundaries used to define each of the categories.

Biscuit are small baked products made principally from flour, sugar and fat. They have a moisture content less than 4% and packed in a moisture proof container have a long life, perhaps 6 months or more.

Ingredients

• 250g butter
• 140g sugar
• 175ml milk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 300g plain flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 235°C.
2. Wheat flour is passed through a sieve removes all the dirt, stones etc.
3. Now in a medium bowl, stir the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt until mixed.
4. Add shortening, until mixture looks like fine crumbs.
5. Pour milk into flour mixture while stirring with a fork. Mix milk until dough is soft, moist and pulls away from the side of the bowl.
6. Place dough on floured surface and toss with flour until no longer sticky.
7. Roll dough out into a 1/2 inch thick sheet and cut with a floured biscuit or cookie cutter.
8. Place biscuits on ungreased baking sheets and bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 10 minutes.