This inexpensive basic biscuit recipe is ideal for children to learn simple baking techniques. From measuring, mixing, rolling, cutting out shapes, decorating, baking and icing.

Ingredients

• 125 grams butter, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon golden syrup or honey
• 1 tablespoon desiccated coconut, optional
• 1½ cups flour, sifted

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC. Lightly grease 1-2 baking trays or line with baking paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, beat butter, sugar, egg and golden syrup or honey together with a wooden spoon until creamy and light in colour.
3. Stir in the coconut, if using, and sifted flour. Mix only until combined.
4. Roll teaspoonfulls into balls and place on the prepared baking tray. Dip a fork in flour and shake off any excess. Press firmly onto each ball of biscuit dough to flatten gently. Alternatively, roll to a 3mm thickness and cut into shapes.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the biscuits begin to brown around the edges.
6. Transfer to a cake rack to cool. Keep in an airtight container.

Cooks Tips

Variations - add ½-1 cup chocolate chips - add the grated rind of 1-2 lemons or oranges - roll mixture into balls and place on a greased tray. Press handle end of a wooden spoon into each ball and fill with jam or fruit mince.