There’s something undeniably comforting about the soft crunch of a biscuit that melts in your mouth, especially when it’s filled with creamy goodness. Recently, while savoring my afternoon tea, I thought how nice it would be to recreate those delightful Custard Creams that remind me of my childhood. When I took my first bite of these homemade treats, it transported me straight to those warm days spent in the kitchen with family, sharing laughter and stories.
What’s fantastic about these Custard Creams is their light, buttery texture and the perfect balance of sweetness—whether enjoyed by themselves or paired with a hot cup of coffee, they’re a gentle reminder that homemade is always better than fast food. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch that’s not only simple to make but also irresistibly delicious and sure to impress anyone who crosses your threshold. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into making these dreamy biscuits together!
Why are Custard Creams a must-try?
Indulgent, homemade goodness: There’s nothing quite like the rich taste of your own Custard Creams fresh from the oven. Quick and easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can create these delightful treats without stress. Perfectly paired: Enjoy them with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. Impressive crowd-pleaser: Your friends and family will be amazed by your baking skills. Nostalgic flavor: Each bite will transport you back to cherished memories, making it a heartwarming experience. Don’t miss out on the joy of baking these delightful biscuits; they’ll remind you why homemade is always worth it!
Custard Creams Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to make your own delightful Custard Creams.
For the Biscuit Dough
- 170 g Butter or Block Margarine – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
- 55 g Icing Sugar (Powdered Sugar) – Adds a touch of sweetness and soft texture to the mixture.
- 170 g Self-raising Flour – Helps the biscuits rise and gives them a light, fluffy consistency.
- 55 g Custard Powder – This is the secret ingredient that imparts a delicious custard flavor.
For the Buttercream Filling
- 50 g Butter or Block Margarine – Use at room temperature to create a smooth buttercream.
- 100 g Icing Sugar (Powdered Sugar) – Sweetens and thickens the filling for a perfect sandwich between biscuits.
Delight in every layer of your homemade Custard Creams!
How to Make Custard Creams
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan-assisted ovens, Gas Mark 4, or 350°F). Grease a couple of baking sheets with a little butter to prevent sticking.
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Cream the butter or margarine with 55 g of icing sugar in a large bowl. Mix until the texture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
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Combine gradually adding 170 g of self-raising flour and 55 g of custard powder. Keep mixing until the dough forms a soft paste that holds together nicely.
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Divide the mixture into small balls, around a teaspoon to a tablespoon each. Arrange them on the pre-greased baking sheets, leaving enough space in between for spreading.
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Flatten each ball lightly using a fork to give them a nice shape. Don’t worry about perfection; they’ll look great once baked!
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Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes until the tops appear dry and lightly golden. This is when your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!
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Cool the biscuits on a wire rack to allow them to firm up. Give them about 10 minutes to cool completely; patience is key here!
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Prepare the buttercream by mixing 50 g of butter with the remaining 100 g of icing sugar until smooth and creamy. Once the biscuits are completely cool, pipe or spread a dollop of buttercream on half of them and sandwich with the other halves.
Optional: Dust with a sprinkle of icing sugar for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Custard Creams are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the biscuit dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow Steps 1 to 3, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. Additionally, you can make the buttercream filling and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake your cookies, just scoop out the chilled dough, flatten, and bake according to Steps 4 to 6. This approach ensures that your biscuits remain just as delicious while saving you precious time during busy weeknights! Enjoy homemade goodness with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Custard Creams
Room Temperature: Store your Custard Creams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, store in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to seal them tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Custard Creams in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your Custard Creams, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes. Enjoy the delightful freshness you’ll love!
Expert Tips for Custard Creams
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Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. Cold butter can lead to dense biscuits.
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Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but not sticky. Adjust with a little more flour if needed to prevent spreading too much while baking.
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Uniform Sizing: Keep the biscuit balls around the same size for even baking, ensuring all your Custard Creams come out perfectly!
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Baking Time: Watch closely towards the end of the baking time—overbaking can lead to dry biscuits. They should be lightly golden and dry on top.
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Cooling Patience: Allow biscuits to cool completely; this helps them firm up. If you try to fill them too soon, they may break.
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Creative Fillings: Experiment with flavored buttercream, like vanilla or chocolate, to create unique twists on classic Custard Creams!
Custard Creams Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on classic Custard Creams that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend for an equally delicious outcome. Enjoy baked goodies without the gluten guilt!
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Chocolatey Delight: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate flavor. This variation is perfect for chocolate lovers!
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Flavor Infusion: Incorporate a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the butter mixture for an extra aromatic touch. It enhances the biscuit’s comforting aroma.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts into the dough for added texture. The crunch complements the soft center beautifully!
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Zesty Lemon: Grate the zest of one lemon into the dough for a refreshing citrusy twist. This brightens the flavor and pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger to the dough for a warm, spicy flavor profile. These spices can transform your Custard Creams into a cozy treat.
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Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free margarine in the filling for a sweet, creamy delight that everyone can enjoy!
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Fruity Filling: Swap the buttercream for a luscious fruit jam or curd between the biscuits. Raspberry or lemon curd offers a delightful tartness that counterbalances the sweetness.
With these variations, your Custard Creams will never be boring!
What to Serve with Custard Creams?
Imagine a delightful afternoon tea gathering where sweet aromas of freshly baked goodies fill the air, creating the perfect atmosphere to unwind and indulge.
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Fresh Berries: Serve an assortment of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Their juicy pops provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sweetness of the Custard Creams. Simply place them on the side for a burst of color and flavor.
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Earl Grey Tea: This fragrant tea goes beautifully with Custard Creams, accentuating their delightful taste. The bergamot in Earl Grey can enhance the custard flavor, making each sip and bite a lovely experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream enhances the buttery richness of the Custard Creams. The creamy texture melds perfectly, making every bite a moment of indulgence.
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Chocolate Dip: Melted chocolate for dipping takes these treats to another level. The rich chocolate flavor beautifully contrasts the buttery biscuit and custard filling, creating a decadent dessert.
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Coffee with Cream: A hot cup of freshly brewed coffee paired with a splash of cream complements the sweetness of Custard Creams. The bitterness of coffee balances their rich flavor, making it an ideal pick-me-up.
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Almond Joyful Trail Mix: Combine nuts, dried fruits, and a few chocolate pieces for a crunchy, sweet contrast. This unexpected pairing adds texture and variety, bringing everyone’s favorite flavors together.
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Homemade Lemonade: A glass of zesty lemonade cuts through the richness of the Custard Creams, refreshing the palate. Its bright, citrusy flavors provide a delightful contrast and perfectly complement those sweet biscuits.
Custard Creams Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for Custard Creams?
Absolutely! Using butter or block margarine at room temperature is crucial for your Custard Creams. This temperature allows for better incorporation and results in a light, fluffy texture. Cold butter may lead to dense biscuits, so let it sit out for about 30 minutes before baking.
How should I store my Custard Creams?
You can store your Custard Creams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, move them to the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to a week, but make sure they’re well-sealed to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze Custard Creams?
Very! To freeze your Custard Creams, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they are frozen solid (about 2-3 hours), transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They will be good for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
What should I do if my biscuit dough is too sticky?
If your biscuit dough seems too sticky to handle, don’t worry! Add in a little more self-raising flour, about a tablespoon at a time until it becomes manageable. The dough should feel soft but not overly tacky to the touch. This ensures even baking and prevents spreading.
Are there any dietary considerations with Custard Creams?
Certainly! If you have allergies, it’s important to remember that traditional Custard Creams contain gluten from the self-raising flour and dairy from the butter. Substitute the butter with a vegan margarine and use gluten-free flour for a version that accommodates those with dietary restrictions. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are safe for your dietary needs.
Delicious Custard Creams That Will Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan-assisted ovens, Gas Mark 4, or 350°F). Grease a couple of baking sheets with a little butter to prevent sticking.
- Cream the butter or margarine with 55 g of icing sugar in a large bowl. Mix until the texture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine gradually adding 170 g of self-raising flour and 55 g of custard powder. Keep mixing until the dough forms a soft paste that holds together nicely.
- Divide the mixture into small balls, around a teaspoon to a tablespoon each. Arrange them on the pre-greased baking sheets, leaving enough space in between for spreading.
- Flatten each ball lightly using a fork to give them a nice shape. Don’t worry about perfection; they’ll look great once baked!
- Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes until the tops appear dry and lightly golden.
- Cool the biscuits on a wire rack to allow them to firm up. Give them about 10 minutes to cool completely.
- Prepare the buttercream by mixing 50 g of butter with the remaining 100 g of icing sugar until smooth and creamy. Once the biscuits are completely cool, pipe or spread a dollop of buttercream on half of them and sandwich with the other halves.