What effect custard powder has on biscuit baking?

Custard powder, when used in biscuit baking, plays a crucial role in enhancing the texture and flavor of the biscuits. Here's how:

1. Texture:

* Softness and tenderness: Custard powder contains cornstarch, which absorbs moisture and creates a softer, more tender texture in biscuits. This is especially helpful for biscuits that tend to be dry or crumbly.

* Richness and chewiness: The addition of custard powder also adds a subtle richness and a slight chewiness to the biscuits, making them more satisfying to eat.

2. Flavor:

* Vanilla flavor: Custard powder often contains vanilla extract, which adds a delicate vanilla flavor to the biscuits. This enhances the overall flavor profile and creates a more balanced taste.

3. Other benefits:

* Emulsification: Custard powder can help with emulsification, particularly when used in recipes with butter and milk. This results in a smoother and more consistent batter.

* Stability: The cornstarch in custard powder can help to stabilize the batter, preventing it from spreading too much and resulting in flatter biscuits.

However, it's important to use custard powder sparingly in biscuit baking.

Here's why:

* Too much custard powder can make the biscuits too soft and mushy.

* It can also affect the overall flavor of the biscuit.

Overall, custard powder can be a valuable ingredient for biscuit baking, offering several benefits in terms of texture and flavor. It's important to use it in moderation and adjust the amount based on your preference and the specific recipe.