How to Make Butter Biscuit (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Butter Biscuit, known locally as 'biskut mentega', is a beloved snack found in many Malaysian homes, especially during festive celebrations and afternoon tea. Rooted in Malaysia's multicultural heritage, this biscuit combines the richness of butter—often infused with pandan essence for a local twist—with the soft crunch of wheat flour and a touch of sweetness. The aroma and taste evoke nostalgia, reminding many of childhood treats and moments shared during Hari Raya or Chinese New Year. The Malaysian Butter Biscuit is versatile, often adapted to suit different dietary needs, and features local ingredients like pandan leaves for fragrance and coconut sugar for depth. Its delicate texture and inviting flavor make it a great choice for lunch, pairing well with kopi or teh tarik. As awareness of healthy eating grows in Malaysia, this recipe offers a lightened version, ideal for calorie-conscious individuals who still want to savor traditional flavors. The recipe below celebrates Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage while providing a guilt-free treat for all ages.
Ingredients
- •1 cup Wheat flour (tepung gandum)
- •1/3 cup Unsalted butter (mentega)
- •1/4 cup Coconut sugar (gula kelapa)
- •1/2 tsp Baking powder (serbuk penaik)
- •1 tsp Pandan leaf extract (ekstrak daun pandan)
- •1/8 tsp Salt (garam)
- •1 Egg yolk (kuning telur)
- •2 tbsp Low-fat milk (susu rendah lemak)
- •1/2 tsp Vanilla essence (optional)
- •1 tbsp Chopped almonds (optional, kacang badam)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Preheat oven to 170°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper
Preheat oven to 170°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2 · In a mixing bowl
In a mixing bowl, cream unsalted butter and coconut sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3 · Add egg yolk
Add egg yolk, low-fat milk, pandan extract, and vanilla essence. Mix well.
Step 4 · Sift in wheat flour
Sift in wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Combine until a soft dough forms.
Step 5 · Fold in chopped almonds if using
Fold in chopped almonds if using. Shape dough into small balls and flatten gently.
Step 6 · Place biscuits on tray
Place biscuits on tray, spaced apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Step 7 · Let biscuits cool on tray for 5 minutes
Let biscuits cool on tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Why this recipe is healthy
Choosing coconut sugar and low-fat dairy makes this Butter Biscuit suitable for calorie-conscious and diabetic-friendly diets. By incorporating almonds and pandan, you boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor. The moderate portion size helps you enjoy a classic Malaysian treat while supporting weight management and balanced eating.
A note on tradition
Butter Biscuit is a staple in Malaysian households, often served during Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, or Deepavali. The recipe’s simplicity and adaptability make it popular across all ethnic groups, from Malay to Chinese and Indian communities. Local variations may include pandan or coconut flavors, reflecting Malaysia’s tropical produce and unique taste preferences. Typically enjoyed with tea or coffee, biskut mentega brings people together during festive seasons and family gatherings.