Description
Classic Empire Biscuits made with buttery shortbread cookies, sandwiched with sweet jam, topped with smooth icing, and adorned with a cherry or colorful sprinkles. Perfect for afternoon tea, holidays, or as a nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
For the Biscuits:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Filling and Topping:
1/2 cup raspberry or strawberry jam
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons water or milk (for icing)
Glacé cherries or colorful sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar together in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter (2-3 inches) to cut out shapes.
- Place biscuits on prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Spread a teaspoon of jam onto the bottom side of half the biscuits. Top with the remaining biscuits to form sandwiches.
- For the icing, mix powdered sugar with water/milk until thick but spreadable.
- Spread the icing over the top of each biscuit and decorate with a halved glacé cherry or sprinkles while still wet.
- Allow the icing to set before serving.
Notes
Icing Flavor Variations: Add lemon or almond extract for extra flavor.
Jam Choices: Use raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or blackcurrant for variety.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Freeze unfilled biscuits for up to 2 months; assemble and ice after thawing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish / British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 biscuits
- Calories: 170 kcal per biscuit
