Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- 2 baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the apricots and pistachios.
7. Drop the dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 biscuits
Nutritional Information (per biscuit):
Calories: 140
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: You can substitute vegan butter or coconut oil for the butter.
- Apricots: You can substitute dried cranberries or raisins for the apricots.
- Pistachios: You can substitute almonds or walnuts for the pistachios.
Variations:
- You can add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate to the dough for a chocolate version.
- You can add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom or ground cinnamon to the dough for a spiced version.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to not overmix the dough, as this will result in tough biscuits.
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugars.
- You can store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Storage Instructions:
Store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the biscuits in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the biscuits on a platter with a selection of jams and jellies.
- Serve the biscuits with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle the biscuits with powdered sugar for a festive presentation.
- Drizzle the biscuits with melted dark chocolate for a decadent touch.
Pairings:
- Serve the biscuits with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or snack.
- Serve the biscuits with a glass of milk for a comforting snack.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve the biscuits with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced snack.
- Serve the biscuits with a side of yogurt for a healthy breakfast.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the biscuits are too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to the dough.
- If the biscuits are too crumbly, add a tablespoon of melted butter to the dough.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to use clean utensils and bowls when preparing the dough.
- Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling the dough.
Food History:
Afghan biscuits are a traditional Afghan dessert that is believed to have originated in the 19th century. The biscuits are usually made with dried fruits and nuts, and are a popular snack in Afghanistan.
Flavor Profiles:
The biscuits are sweet and nutty, with hints of vanilla and apricot.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the biscuits with a dollop of whipped cream for a special treat.
- Serve the biscuits with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
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