Introduction

If there’s one treat that epitomizes the essence of a classic British tea time, it’s the Custard Cream Sandwich Biscuits. These delightful biscuits are a staple of many households, enjoyed by children and adults alike. What makes this recipe stand out is the decadent vanilla custard filling sandwiched between buttery shortbread cookies, creating a rich and creamy dessert. The origins of custard creams can be traced back to the Victorian era, a time when intricate biscuits became a symbol of hospitality and indulgence. Today, they continue to be a beloved snack, perfect for sweet afternoon tea treats or as an indulgent tea-time snack.

These homemade custard biscuits are not just any ordinary dessert sandwich biscuits; they encapsulate a perfect balance of texture and flavor that crumbles in your mouth while delivering a burst of aromatic vanilla. By using custard powder, a classic ingredient in many traditional biscuit recipes, you will achieve the authentic taste that defines this British culinary delight. Whether you’re baking with your children or preparing a gourmet cookie idea for guests, these cream-filled cookies are sure to impress. You can learn more about this topic.

Beyond their delicious taste, Custard Cream Sandwich Biscuits also hold a nostalgic value for many who grew up enjoying these treats with family and friends. The simple act of making these biscuits from scratch can transform a regular afternoon into a special occasion, bringing the warmth of homemade baked goods into your kitchen. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers a satisfying and rewarding experience that is both delightful and accessible. As you bite into the delicate layers, you might find yourself transported back to cozy afternoons filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of baked goods wafting through the house.

Ingredients

For the Biscuits:

• 200g plain flour
• 50g custard powder
• 150g unsalted butter, softened
• 50g caster sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 200g icing sugar, sifted
• 3 tablespoons custard powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

Note: When selecting ingredients, opt for high-quality butter to enhance the flavor of your buttery sandwich cookies. If you’re seeking substitutions, consider using a vegan butter for a plant-based alternative. Check out our related guide for more tips.

For a slightly different flavor profile, you can experiment with different extracts such as almond or lemon for the biscuit dough or filling. Additionally, using organic ingredients where possible can enhance the natural flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable. Consider sourcing locally produced ingredients to support sustainability and enjoy farm-fresh tastes that elevate the overall quality of your baked delights.

Steps / Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This initial step is crucial as it ensures the biscuits bake evenly without sticking to the tray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour and custard powder. Set aside. This mixture acts as the foundation for your delicious biscuits, giving them structure and flavor.
3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This process can take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer. The air whipped into the mixture will contribute to the biscuits’ tender crumb.
4. Add the vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, then gradually fold in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Be gentle to maintain the lightness of the dough.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Roll out the dough to about 5mm thickness. This ensures even baking and the perfect bite-sized thickness.
6. Using a cookie cutter, cut out rounds from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each biscuit. This spacing is important to prevent the biscuits from merging while baking.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the biscuits are lightly golden at the edges. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling prevents the filling from melting when applied.
8. While the biscuits are cooling, prepare the vanilla custard filling. Beat the softened butter until smooth, then gradually add the icing sugar and custard powder. Mix in the vanilla extract and enough milk to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency. The filling should be creamy and not too runny, allowing it to hold the biscuit layers together.
9. To assemble, spread a generous layer of the custard filling onto the underside of one biscuit and sandwich with another. Repeat until all biscuits are paired. Aim for a consistent filling-to-biscuit ratio for the ideal taste balance.

For an extra touch of elegance, consider using a piping bag to apply the custard filling onto the biscuits. This not only makes the biscuits visually appealing but also ensures an even distribution of the luscious filling. A star-shaped nozzle can give the filling an intricate, decorative edge that enhances the overall presentation.

Tips & Tricks

• Storage: Store these biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they remain fresh and crisp. For maximum freshness, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Make-Ahead: The biscuit dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to two days before baking, making it a convenient option for busy schedules. This allows the flavors to mature, enhancing the taste.
• Avoid Overmixing: To keep the biscuits light and tender, avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added. Overworked dough results in denser, less tender biscuits.
• Chill the Dough: If you find your dough is too soft to work with, chilling it for about 30 minutes can make it easier to handle and cut. This step helps maintain the shape during baking.
• Flavor Boost: For an added depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of salt to both the biscuit dough and the filling. The salt enhances the sweetness and vanilla notes, creating a more rounded flavor profile.
• Texture Enhancement: For a crunchier bite, consider adding a tablespoon of cornmeal to the dough. This can add a subtle texture contrast with the creamy filling.
• Perfect Presentation: Dust the finished biscuits with a light layer of icing sugar before serving for an elegant, bakery-style look that will impress your guests.

Print

Custard Cream Sandwich Biscuits

Recipe by Ab sef

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dessert Cuisine: British Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− Approximately 20 biscuits +

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

12 min

🔥

Calories

—

These delightful biscuits are a staple of many households, enjoyed by children and adults alike. What makes this recipe stand out is the decadent vanilla custard filling sandwiched between buttery shortbread cookies, creating a rich and creamy dessert.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 200g plain flour
• 50g custard powder
• 150g unsalted butter, softened
• 50g caster sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 200g icing sugar, sifted
• 3 tablespoons custard powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

Directions

1.

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour and custard powder. Set aside.

3.

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy.

4.

Add the vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, then gradually fold in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.

5.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Roll out the dough to about 5mm thickness.

6.

Using a cookie cutter, cut out rounds from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

7.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the biscuits are lightly golden at the edges. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

8.

While the biscuits are cooling, prepare the vanilla custard filling. Beat the softened butter until smooth, then gradually add the icing sugar and custard powder. Mix in the vanilla extract and enough milk to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.

9.

To assemble, spread a generous layer of the custard filling onto the underside of one biscuit and sandwich with another. Repeat until all biscuits are paired.