Tavern Biscuits
Tavern Biscuits are tender, buttery treats with a hint of brandy and warm spices, perfect for pairing with tea or serving as a delightful snack. They are easy to make and charmingly rustic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the softened butter and sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the brandy and mace, mixing well to incorporate.
- Gradually add the flour and milk, a spoonful at a time, until a stiff dough forms.
- Refrigerate the dough until it is firm enough to roll out easily.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut out small circles from the dough using a cutter.
- Prick each biscuit with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until they are firm and lightly browned on the bottom, with tops remaining pale.
- Allow to cool slightly before storing in a covered jar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adjusting the sugar based on your sweetness preference. If you don't have brandy, rum or whiskey can work as substitutes. Make sure to refrigerate the dough long enough for easy rolling; you can also chill it overnight for best results. For a twist, incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to complement the mace.
Serving Suggestions
Tavern biscuits pair beautifully with tea or coffee, making them a delightful treat for afternoon gatherings. They can also serve as a simple dessert, especially when drizzled with honey or accompanied by fresh fruit. For a savory touch, serve them alongside soups or stews, similar to how you might enjoy Newfi Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in a single layer, then transferring to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tavern Biscuits contains roughly 77 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. This helps the flavors to meld and makes rolling easier. After cutting out the biscuits, they can also be frozen before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What if I don't have mace?
If you don't have mace, you can substitute it with nutmeg or allspice for a similar warm flavor. While mace has a distinct taste, these alternatives will still yield delicious results in your biscuits. Just use them in equal amounts, and adjust according to your taste preference.
How can I ensure my biscuits are flaky?
To achieve a flakier texture, avoid overworking the dough when incorporating the flour and milk. Mix just until combined, and handle the dough as little as possible. Chilling the dough also helps create a lighter biscuit by allowing the fat to firm up before baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).