Highland Fancies
Highland Fancies are a delightful treat hailing from the highlands of Scotland. Known for their buttery texture and rich flavors, these biscuits have been a staple at Scottish gatherings and tea parties for centuries. Traditionally baked with oats and a hint of spice, they offer a glimpse into the culinary practices of Scotland's past.
Ingredients for Highland Fancies
- Oats - 2 cups
- All-purpose flour - 1 cup
- Unsalted butter - 1 cup, softened
- Dark brown sugar - 3/4 cup
- Egg - 1, large
- Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
- Nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. It's crucial to ensure that the butter is softened for easy mixing. Measure out the oats, flour, dark brown sugar, and have the egg at room temperature.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures that the spices and leavening are distributed evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, contributing to the texture of the biscuits.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the egg to the butter and sugar mixture, beating until well combined. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet, mixing until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender biscuits.
Step 5: Shape the Biscuits
Roll the dough into small balls, about an inch in diameter. Place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they're spaced about two inches apart to allow for spreading.
Cooking Process
Step 6: Bake the Biscuits
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is heated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown around the edges. For an accurate measure of time, make use of a cooking timer.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the biscuits on the sheet initially lets them firm up.
Enjoying Highland Fancies
Highland Fancies are best enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or coffee, preferably in the cozy setting of a Scottish highland afternoon. They are also an excellent choice for holiday gatherings, representing a taste of Scottish history and tradition with each bite. Sharing them with friends and family adds to the experience, fostering a sense of warmth and community.