Embark on a delightful journey into the world of baking with this simple Osmania biscuit recipe. Known for their distinctive shape and rich, buttery flavor, Osmania biscuits are a favorite in Indian confectionery, offering a sweet, crunchy treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
To start your baking adventure, here are the ingredients you’ll need for approximately 25 to 30 biscuits:
- 250 grams of maida (all-purpose flour)
- 125 grams of powdered sugar
- 125 grams of cold unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- A pinch of cardamom powder
- A pinch of salt
- 50-60 ml of cold milk or water
- Ghee or melted butter for brushing
- Pistachio slivers for decoration (optional)
Step 1: Mixing the Dough
Begin by sieving the maida and baking powder together to ensure there are no lumps. In a separate large mixing bowl, add the cold butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to break it down until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add the powdered sugar, cardamom, and salt into this mix, then combine them with the flour. Gradually incorporate the cold milk or water, just enough to form a soft, pliable dough. Avoid kneading; the less you work the dough, the flakier your biscuits will be.
Step 2: Shaping the Biscuits
Here’s where the fun begins:
- Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1⁄4 inch thickness.
- Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles.
- Using a smaller cutter or the back of a piping nozzle, press in the center of each biscuit to create the signature Osmania shape. Remember to keep the center slightly raised, creating the “D” shape.
Step 3: Pre-Baking Preparation
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the shaped biscuits on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced well. Brush the tops with a thin layer of melted butter or ghee for a golden finish.
💡 Note: For a crispier texture, chill the biscuits in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking.
Step 4: Baking the Biscuits
Place the tray in the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Watch closely to prevent over-baking, as biscuits continue to bake a little once removed from the oven. Remember, Osmania biscuits are known for their delicate crispness, so do not over-bake.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. As they cool, they will achieve their perfect crunch. Sprinkle pistachio slivers on top if you wish to enhance their appearance.
To sum up, baking Osmania biscuits at home is not just about following a recipe, but also about enjoying the process of creating a cherished delicacy. With this 5-step guide, you can now indulge in this buttery, flaky, and mildly sweet treat, capturing the essence of Indian confectionery in every bite.
What makes Osmania biscuits unique?
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Osmania biscuits are known for their distinct “D” shape, a buttery texture, and a hint of cardamom flavor. They are crisp on the outside, yet slightly chewy on the inside due to their unique dough handling and shaping process.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
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Yes, you can substitute butter with margarine, but the taste and texture might slightly change. Butter provides a richer flavor and better flakiness to the biscuits.
How should I store Osmania biscuits?
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Store Osmania biscuits in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last up to a week at room temperature, but for longer storage, consider keeping them in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness.
