Empire biscuits, a beloved British teatime treat, have been enjoyed for over a century. These sweet shortbread cookies traditionally contain butter and eggs, making them off-limits for those following a vegan lifestyle. Vegan versions of empire biscuits are now widely available, replicating the classic buttery vanilla taste and melt-in-the-mouth texture without any animal products.
Many bakers and food companies have developed vegan empire biscuit recipes that capture the indulgent essence of the original. These plant-based alternatives use vegan margarine instead of butter and omit eggs entirely. The result is a crumbly, jam-filled cookie that stays true to the traditional flavor profile while aligning with vegan dietary principles.
Vegan empire biscuits are perfect for afternoon tea, parties, or everyday enjoyment. They typically consist of two shortbread cookies sandwiched together with jam, topped with icing and a glacé cherry. While the unfilled vegan biscuits can last for a week or more when stored properly, filled versions are best consumed within a few days as they may soften from the jam.
Understanding Empire Biscuits
Empire biscuits are a beloved British teatime treat with a rich history and distinctive ingredients. These sandwich cookies feature a sweet jam filling and decorative icing, making them a popular choice for afternoon tea.
History and Significance
Empire biscuits originated in the early 20th century and quickly became a staple in British and Scottish cuisine. Initially known as “German biscuits,” they were renamed during World War I due to anti-German sentiment. The biscuits gained popularity as a fancy treat for special occasions and afternoon tea gatherings.
These cookies have remained a favorite in Scotland and parts of England for over a century. Their attractive appearance, with a colorful jelly sweet on top, makes them stand out on cookie platters. Empire biscuits are often associated with festive celebrations and are commonly found in bakeries and cafes throughout the UK.
Traditional Empire Biscuit Ingredients
Empire biscuits are typically made with simple, yet flavorful ingredients. The cookie base consists of flour, butter, and sugar, creating a shortbread-like texture. Two round cookies are sandwiched together with strawberry or raspberry jam.
The top cookie is covered with a layer of white icing made from powdered sugar and water. A colorful jelly sweet or glacé cherry is placed in the center as a finishing touch. Some variations include:
- Vanilla extract for added flavor
- Almond essence in the icing
- Different jam flavors like apricot or blackcurrant
These ingredients combine to create a sweet, buttery, and slightly crumbly cookie with a satisfying jam center and decorative appearance.
Transitioning to Vegan Baking
Adapting traditional recipes to vegan versions requires understanding key ingredient substitutions and vegan diet principles. Careful selection of plant-based alternatives can yield delicious results that closely mimic classic empire biscuits.
Vegan Diet Basics
A vegan diet excludes all animal products, including eggs, dairy, and honey. For baking, this means finding suitable replacements that provide similar functions and flavors. Plant-based milks like almond, soy, or oat milk can replace dairy milk in recipes. Vegan butter or margarine substitutes for traditional butter.
Sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar can stand in for honey. Aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) works well as an egg replacer in many baked goods. Nutritional yeast adds a savory, cheese-like flavor to savory bakes.
Substituting Non-Vegan Ingredients
For empire biscuits, vegan butter is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor. Brands like Earth Balance offer plant-based sticks that perform similarly to dairy butter in baking. Nondairy milk can replace regular milk in the dough.
For the jam filling, most fruit jams are naturally vegan-friendly. The icing typically uses powdered sugar and water, which are vegan. Vegan food coloring can add the traditional pink hue. For the cherry on top, opt for glacé cherries made without animal-derived food dyes.
Experiment with different egg replacers like applesauce or ground flaxseed mixed with water to find the best texture for your vegan empire biscuits. With practice, these sweet treats can be just as delicious as their traditional counterparts.
Essential Ingredients for Vegan Empire Biscuits
Creating delicious vegan empire biscuits requires carefully selected plant-based ingredients. The key components include vegan alternatives for butter, appropriate sweeteners, and suitable jam fillings.
Vegan Butter and Margarine
Vegan butter or margarine is crucial for achieving the classic texture of empire biscuits. These plant-based alternatives help create a rich, crumbly texture similar to traditional versions. Many brands offer vegan butter specifically designed for baking.
When selecting vegan butter, look for options with a high fat content to replicate the mouthfeel of dairy butter. Some popular choices include coconut oil-based spreads or soy-based margarines.
For best results, ensure the vegan butter is at room temperature before creaming it with sugar. This allows for better incorporation and a smoother dough.
Choosing Vegan Sweeteners
Empire biscuits typically use two types of sugar: caster sugar for the biscuit dough and icing sugar for the topping. Both are generally vegan-friendly.
Caster sugar, also known as superfine sugar, dissolves easily and creates a fine texture in the biscuits. For the icing, use powdered sugar (icing sugar) to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
Some vegans prefer organic sugars to avoid potential bone char processing. Alternatively, coconut sugar or maple sugar can be used in the dough, though they may alter the flavor slightly.
Vegan-Friendly Jams and Fillings
The classic filling for empire biscuits is raspberry jam, which is naturally vegan. Strawberry jam is another popular choice. When selecting jam, opt for high-quality, fruit-forward varieties without gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients.
For a twist, try other fruit preserves like apricot or blackcurrant. Ensure the jam is seedless and slightly warmed for easier spreading.
Some recipes incorporate lemon juice in the icing for added flavor. Vegan-friendly decorations like jelly tots or glacé cherries can be used as toppings, but always check labels for animal-derived ingredients.
Recipe and Preparation
Creating vegan empire biscuits requires careful ingredient selection and precise techniques. The process involves making a dairy-free dough, shaping and baking the cookies, then assembling them with jam and icing.
Creating the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together 180g vegan margarine and 100g caster sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add 280g plain flour and 1 tsp vanilla extract, mixing to form a soft dough. If the mixture is too crumbly, add 1-2 tbsp plant-based milk.
Wrap the dough in cling film and chill for 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 5mm thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
Baking and Assembly
Place the cut-out biscuits on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the biscuits to cool completely on a wire rack.
Spread a thin layer of vegan-friendly jam on half of the cooled biscuits. Mix icing sugar with a small amount of water to create a thick but spreadable icing.
Top the jam-covered biscuits with plain ones. Spread icing on top and finish with a glacé cherry.
Let the icing set before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Finishing Touches for Empire Biscuits
The final steps of creating empire biscuits involve adding sweet decorations and icing. These elements transform simple shortbread cookies into elegant sandwich biscuits with a delightful appearance and taste.
Preparing Vegan Icing
Vegan icing for empire biscuits is easy to make and customize. Mix powdered sugar with a small amount of water until it reaches a thick but pourable consistency. Start with 1 cup of sugar and add water 1 teaspoon at a time. Stir thoroughly between additions to achieve the right texture.
For a glossy finish, add a drop of vegetable glycerin. This creates a shiny surface once the icing sets. Royal icing can be made vegan by substituting egg whites with aquafaba – the liquid from canned chickpeas. Whip the aquafaba until foamy before mixing with powdered sugar.
Color the icing if desired using plant-based food coloring. White icing is traditional, but pastel shades can add a fun twist.
Decorating Your Biscuits
Once the vegan icing is prepared, it’s time to decorate the empire biscuits. Spread a layer of strawberry jam on one cookie. Place another cookie on top to create a sandwich.
Spoon or pipe the icing onto the top cookie, allowing it to spread to the edges. Work quickly as the icing will start to set. For a neat finish, use a small offset spatula to smooth the surface.
While the icing is still wet, place a glace cherry or jelly tot in the center. Vegan alternatives include candied fruit or a dollop of colorful icing. Allow the biscuits to set completely before serving or storing.
For variety, try different jam flavors or add a sprinkle of crushed nuts before the icing sets. These finishing touches elevate simple shortbread into a special treat.
Serving and Storage
Empire biscuits are best served at room temperature. After baking, allow the biscuits to cool completely on a wire cooling rack. This prevents condensation from forming and keeps the biscuits crisp.
For serving, arrange the biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet or decorative platter. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Empire biscuits make an elegant sweet treat for afternoon tea or dessert.
Store vegan empire biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature. Place a sheet of baking paper between layers to prevent sticking. Properly stored, they will keep fresh for 3-5 days.
For longer storage, freeze unfrosted biscuits in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and decorating. The jam and icing are best added fresh just before serving.
Refrigeration is not recommended, as it can make the biscuits lose their crisp texture. If storing in warm climates, keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.
Adapting the Recipe for Special Diets
Empire biscuits can be easily modified to suit various dietary needs while maintaining their delightful taste and texture. These adaptations cater to gluten-free requirements and explore alternative vegan sweeteners and flavors.
Gluten-Free Empire Biscuit Variations
For those avoiding gluten, a simple substitution of gluten-free flour can create delicious empire biscuits. Use a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch in place of all-purpose flour. Add xanthan gum to improve texture.
Vegan block butter works well in gluten-free versions, providing the necessary fat content. Mix in a pinch of sea salt to enhance flavors.
For best results, chill the dough before rolling and baking. This helps prevent spreading and maintains the biscuits’ shape.
Alternative Vegan Sweeteners and Flavors
Empire biscuits can be sweetened with alternatives to traditional sugar. Coconut sugar or maple syrup can replace caster sugar, offering unique flavors.
For a tangy twist, add lemon juice to the icing. This complements the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
Nondairy milk, such as almond or oat, can be used in place of water when making the icing. This adds richness and a subtle nutty flavor.
Experiment with natural extracts like vanilla, almond, or orange to create varied flavor combinations in the biscuit dough.
