Tea Biscuits
Tea biscuits are light, flaky baked treats with a subtle sweetness and a hint of salt, perfect for breakfast or teatime. Their tender crumb and delicate flavor make them an excellent accompaniment to jam, butter, or tea, appealing to both casual bakers and those seeking a comforting homemade snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water.
- Put Crisco, milk, sugar, and salt on the stove and heat until lukewarm.
- Add flour to the mixture and combine.
- Mix and knead the dough thoroughly.
- Let the dough set for 15 minutes.
- Knead again and roll out the dough.
- Let stand for 15 minutes, then bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of Crisco, or try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract. If you prefer a slightly sweeter biscuit, increase the sugar to 4 tablespoons. Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. Kneading well is key to a fluffy texture. If you don't have plain flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour but may need to adjust the quantity slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These tea biscuits are perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. Serve them warm with butter, jam, or honey for a delightful treat. They pair beautifully with Simple Homemade Ice Cream for dessert. Consider serving alongside a fresh fruit salad or a cup of your favorite tea for an enjoyable experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to a month. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tea Biscuits contains roughly 596 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 897mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, while plain flour works best for texture, you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. However, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
What can I do if my biscuits are too dense?
If your biscuits turn out dense, it may be due to over-kneading. Ensure you're kneading just enough to combine and develop the gluten. Also, check that your yeast is fresh and active, as this is crucial for a light and airy biscuit.
How can I make these biscuits sweeter?
To increase sweetness, consider adding an additional tablespoon of sugar or incorporating a sweet glaze on top after baking. A simple glaze can be made with powdered sugar and a little milk or lemon juice for a delightful finish.
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).