Cotswold Crunchies
Background and History
Cotswold Crunchies are a delightful biscuit originating from the heart of England, specifically the picturesque Cotswolds region. Known for its rolling hills and charming stone cottages, the Cotswolds is also home to a variety of traditional recipes, including these sweet, crunchy treats. Historically, these biscuits were a staple in the local households, enjoyed with afternoon tea or as a quick snack during a hard day’s work in the fields. Their enduring popularity can be attributed to their simple ingredients and satisfying texture.
The Cotswold region is famous not just for its beauty, but for its rich culinary heritage. The use of local ingredients like oats and various spices has been a longstanding tradition in this area. Cotswold Crunchies embody these flavors perfectly, bringing together a rustic charm and a sweet simplicity that has been cherished through generations.
Ingredients
- Flour - 2 cups
- Brown Sugar - 1 cup
- Butter - 1/2 cup
- Oats - 1 cup
- Honey - 2 tablespoons
- Baking Powder - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
- Milk - 1/4 cup
- Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
In a separate bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until you achieve a light and fluffy texture. This should take approximately 3-5 minutes. Once creamed, add the honey and vanilla extract to the mixture and continue to mix until fully incorporated.
Cooking Process
Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, adding small portions at a time until well combined. The dough will be thick but should hold together when pressed. If the mixture seems too dry, add the milk a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
Scoop spoonfuls of the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Flatten each scoop lightly with the back of a spoon to create a uniform thickness. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
Bake the Cotswold Crunchies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn a golden brown. Be sure to monitor the baking time closely to prevent over-baking. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For best results, use a cooking timer to ensure precise baking times.
How to Enjoy
Cotswold Crunchies are best enjoyed with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, perfectly complimenting their crispy texture and sweet spice flavor. They can also be paired with a dollop of clotted cream or a drizzle of extra honey for additional sweetness. These biscuits are an excellent choice for a delightful afternoon tea or a comforting treat on a cold day.
Stored in an airtight container, Cotswold Crunchies will maintain their delicious crunch for up to one week, making them an ideal snack to have on hand for a quick indulgence.