Afghan Biscuits

Introduction

Afghan Biscuits

These classic New Zealand Afghan Biscuits are a delightful treat that combines a crunchy texture with rich chocolate flavors. With the addition of cornflakes, they provide a satisfying crunch that makes them unique. Topped with smooth chocolate icing and a walnut, these biscuits are perfect for tea time or as a sweet snack any time of the day.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

200g unsalted butter, softened

75g granulated sugar

175g all-purpose flour

25g cocoa powder

50g cornflakes

150g powdered sugar

2 tablespoon cocoa powder (for icing)

2 tablespoon boiling water

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

12 walnut halves

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 12 biscuits

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, then mix until combined.
4. Gently fold in the cornflakes, ensuring they are evenly distributed but not crushed.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, slightly pressing them down.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until firm. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. For the icing, sift powdered sugar and cocoa powder into a bowl. Add boiling water and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.
8. Spread a small amount of icing on each biscuit and top with a walnut half.
9. Allow the icing to set before serving.

These Afghan Biscuits are sure to impress chocolate lovers and make for a perfect homemade gift or dessert addition. Enjoy the delightful blend of textures and flavors in every bite!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the biscuits from sticking.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes.

3. Add Flour and Cocoa Powder

Sift in the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder. Mix until the ingredients are just combined and no dry flour remains.

4. Fold in Cornflakes

Gently fold in the cornflakes, being careful not to crush them. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

5. Scoop Portions

Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Slightly press down each portion to flatten them.

6. Bake the Biscuits

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are firm to the touch. Once done, remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

7. Prepare the Icing

In a bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder. Add 2 tablespoons of boiling water and the vanilla extract; stir until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.

8. Ice the Biscuits

Spread a small amount of the prepared icing on top of each cooled biscuit. Place a walnut half on top of the icing for decoration.

9. Let the Icing Set

Allow the icing to set at room temperature before serving the biscuits.

Notes

Storage

Store the Afghan biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

These biscuits pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon tea.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different nuts or toppings to personalize your Afghan biscuits.

Baking Tip

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and a better texture.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Store the Afghan biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Ensure the container is completely sealed to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming stale.

Refrigeration

If you need to keep them for longer, you can refrigerate the biscuits for up to two weeks. However, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

For extended storage, these biscuits can be frozen. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, ensuring to separate layers with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Afghan biscuits as a delightful afternoon treat with a cup of tea or coffee. They pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a festive touch, arrange them on a platter during gatherings or celebrations alongside other homemade sweets.

Nutritional Information

Each Afghan biscuit contains approximately:
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g

Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter

For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut oil or vegan butter in place of unsalted butter.

Sugar

You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or brown sugar for a more caramel-like flavor.

Flour

If you need a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix instead of all-purpose flour.

Cocoa Powder

Carob powder can be used as a caffeine-free alternative to cocoa powder.

Walnut Halves

If you have nut allergies, consider using toasted pumpkin seeds or leaving them out altogether.

Cook Techniques

Creaming

Creaming is the process of beating the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the mixture, which helps give biscuits a light texture.

Sifting

Sifting the flour and cocoa powder helps to aerate and combine these dry ingredients, ensuring a smoother batter without lumps.

Folding

Gently folding in the cornflakes means incorporating them into the batter without crushing them, maintaining their crunchy texture.

Baking

Baking at 180°C is essential for achieving the right level of crispness. Ensure to check the biscuits are firm before removing them from the oven.

Icing

The icing is made by combining powdered sugar, cocoa powder, boiling water, and vanilla extract, achieving a smooth consistency that can easily spread over the biscuits.

Setting

Allowing the icing to set ensures it hardens slightly before serving, providing a delightful finish to the biscuits.

FAQ

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, using unsalted butter will give the best flavor and texture to the biscuits.

What can I substitute for cornflakes?

You can substitute cornflakes with crushed digestive biscuits or bran flakes, but this may change the texture.

How should I store leftover biscuits?

Store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Can I omit the walnuts?

Yes, walnuts can be omitted if you're allergic or prefer not to use nuts. The biscuits will still taste delicious without them.

Can I freeze the unbaked dough?

Yes, the unbaked dough can be frozen. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I do if my icing is too thick?

If the icing is too thick, add a tiny bit more boiling water, a teaspoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Afghan Biscuits are a delightful treat that balances a crunchy texture with rich chocolate flavors. Their unique combination of cornflakes and walnuts not only enhances the taste but also adds an enjoyable bite. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared with friends, these biscuits are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Chocolate Chip Afghan Variation

Add chocolate chips to the dough for an extra chocolaty experience. The melted chips create gooey pockets of indulgence in each biscuit.

Coconut Afghan Biscuits

Incorporate desiccated coconut into the mixture for a tropical twist. This adds a chewy texture that complements the crunchiness of the cornflakes.

Spiced Afghan Biscuits

Introduce warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. This variation adds a cozy flavor perfect for colder months.

Peanut Butter Afghan Biscuits

Replace half of the butter with peanut butter for a nutty flavor. Topped with crushed peanuts instead of walnuts, these biscuits offer a delicious twist.

Dried Fruit Afghan Biscuits

Mix in chopped dried fruits like raisins or apricots to add natural sweetness and chewy texture, making these biscuits even more interesting.

Gluten-Free Afghan Biscuits

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative. Ensure the cornflakes are also gluten-free to cater to those with dietary restrictions.