How to Make Classic Indian Baked Biscuits and Cookies

Classic Indian baked biscuits and cookies are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion. Whether you're sipping chai or hosting a gathering, these sweet treats will surely impress. Here is a simple guide on how to make these delicious Indian snacks at home.

Ingredients for Classic Indian Biscuits

To make classic Indian baked biscuits, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
  • Milk, as needed (approximately 2-3 tablespoons)

Instructions for Making Classic Indian Biscuits

Follow these steps to create your delicious Indian biscuits:

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cardamom powder. Whisk well to combine.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture. Mix until combined. If the dough seems too dry, add milk a tablespoon at a time until you achieve a soft dough.
  5. Shape the Dough: Lightly flour your working surface and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or simply shape them by hand into rounds.
  6. Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped biscuits onto a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving some space between each biscuit.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown.
  8. Cool and Store: Let the biscuits cool on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container.

Making Classic Indian Cookies

If you’d like to make cookies, consider adding ingredients such as chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips for variation. Here’s how to modify the above recipe:

Additional Ingredients for Cookies

  • 1 cup of mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, or walnuts)
  • 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/4 cup of raisins (optional)

Instructions for Classic Indian Cookies

  1. Follow the same instructions as above for making the dough.
  2. Before shaping the cookies, fold in the nuts, chocolate chips, and raisins into the dough.
  3. Shape and bake as instructed, adjusting baking time if necessary based on cookie size.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your classic Indian biscuits and cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They also make for great gifts during the festive season when placed in decorative jars or boxes.

Storage Tips

Store your biscuits and cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for weeks. You can also freeze the dough for up to three months for future use.

With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the rich flavors and delightful crunch of classic Indian baked biscuits and cookies right in your home. Happy baking!