These are extremely easy to make, and well worth the effort. It takes no time to make a large batch and keep in the freezer until needed. They are perfect with pre-dinner drinks.
To make about 30-40, using a 5cm round cutter
Ingredients:
100g plain flour
Pinch each of salt, black pepper and cayenne
1/2 tsp dry mustard powder
90g unsalted butter
90g grated Parmesan or Gruyère
1 egg beaten to glaze
Small handful of poppy seeds or sesame seeds
Method:
- Sift flour into a bowl or food processor and add the salt, pepper, cayenne and mustard powder.
- Add the butter and rub in or blend until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Add the cheese and mix the dough together until smooth. If should be soft and pliable.
- Chill for 30 minutes, and then turn out onto a floured surface.
- Pre-heat the oven to 190C. Gently roll out to a thickness of 1cm. Using a round or heart-shaped cutter, press out the shapes and brush with the egg glaze.
- Sprinkle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds and place on a flat baking sheet. Bake for approx 12-15 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown, and cool on a wire rack.
Note: These can be kept for a week in an airtight container, or frozen for 1-2 months.
Alison Farr-Handley