Fruit & Nut Biscuit Squares are the kind of treat that feels like a hug from the oven. With a buttery, crumbly texture and bursts of dried fruit and crunchy nuts in every bite, these squares strike the perfect balance between rustic charm and refined flavor. The dough is rolled out and cut into neat squares, then baked until golden and finished with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar.
These biscuits are tender but sturdy, making them ideal for dunking in tea or coffee. The fruit adds natural sweetness, while the nuts bring richness and texture. Whether you use raisins, dates, cranberries, or chopped apricots, the result is a versatile bake that can be customized to suit your pantry or mood. They’re easy to make, beginner-friendly, and perfect for sharing—or not.
Whether served warm from the oven or stored in a tin for the week, these biscuit squares are a timeless delight.
🧺 INGREDIENTS: (Yields 16–20 squares)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk or buttermilk
- ½ cup chopped dried fruit (raisins, dates, cranberries, or apricots)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Extra flour for rolling
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prep the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in sugar, dried fruit, and nuts.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms. If too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.
Step 3: Roll & Cut
Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness. Cut into squares using a knife or biscuit cutter. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking tray.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the edges are lightly crisp. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Dust with powdered sugar while still warm. Serve fresh or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
🍽️ Tips & Variations:
- Spiced Version: Add ½ tsp cinnamon or cardamom to the dough.
- Citrus Twist: Stir in orange or lemon zest for brightness.
- Glaze Option: Drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze unbaked squares and bake fresh as needed.
