Mary Berry’s 3-Ingredient Fork Cookies are simple, buttery, and melt-in-the-mouth biscuits that require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor. These classic cookies have a delicate, crumbly texture and are perfect for tea-time treats or easy homemade baking.

What Are Mary Berry 3-Ingredient Fork Cookies?

Mary Berry’s 3-Ingredient Fork Cookies are buttery shortbread-style biscuits made using only butter, sugar, and flour. They are shaped into small balls, pressed with a fork to create a signature pattern, and baked until golden. These cookies are light, crisp, and perfect with a cup of tea.

Mary Berry 3-Ingredient Fork Cookies recipe

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Only three ingredients: Simple pantry staples—no eggs or special ingredients needed.
Quick and easy to make: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
Perfectly buttery and crumbly: A rich, melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Great for beginners: A foolproof recipe, ideal for new bakers.
Versatile: Can be customized with flavors like vanilla, lemon zest, or chocolate chips.

Ingredients Needed for Mary Berry 3-Ingredient Fork Cookies

100g unsalted butter (softened)
50g caster sugar
150g self-raising flour

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or hand mixer
Baking tray
Parchment paper
Fork

Instructions to Make Mary Berry 3-Ingredient Fork Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Flour

Sift the self-raising flour into the mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls (about the size of a walnut) and place them on the prepared baking tray.
Use a fork to gently press down each ball, creating an indented pattern.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies turn a light golden color.
Remove from the oven and let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Enjoy these buttery fork cookies with tea or coffee, or store them for later!

What to Serve With Mary Berry 3-Ingredient Fork Cookies

Cup of tea or coffee: The perfect afternoon treat.
Hot chocolate: A rich, chocolatey pairing.
Lemon curd or jam: Adds a fruity contrast.
A dusting of icing sugar: For a delicate sweetness.
Dipped in chocolate: A delicious twist for chocolate lovers.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Fork Cookies

Use softened butter: Ensures a smooth dough that’s easy to mix.
Don’t overwork the dough: Mix until just combined for the best texture.
Space cookies evenly on the tray: They spread slightly while baking.
Let them cool before moving: They firm up as they cool for the perfect crunch.
Add flavor variations: Try adding vanilla extract, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

What Are Variations of Mary Berry Fork Cookies?

Chocolate fork cookies: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder for a chocolatey version.
Coconut fork cookies: Stir in desiccated coconut for extra flavor.
Lemon zest cookies: A zesty twist for a fresh taste.
Nutty cookies: Add finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts for crunch.
Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free self-raising flour blend.

How Do I Store Mary Berry Fork Cookies?

At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freeze for later: Freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Dough storage: The dough can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

Reduce sugar: Use 40g sugar instead of 50g for a less sweet version.
Use whole wheat flour: Add fiber while keeping the cookies crisp.
Swap butter for coconut oil: A dairy-free alternative.
Try a sugar substitute: Use a natural sweetener like coconut sugar.

Nutrition Value (Per Cookie)

Calories: 100
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 0.5g

FAQs

Why Are My Fork Cookies Crumbly?

Fork cookies have a delicate, crumbly texture due to the high butter content. To prevent them from being too dry, measure the flour accurately and avoid overmixing the dough. If the dough is too crumbly to roll, knead it gently until it holds together.

Can I Use Plain Flour Instead of Self-Raising Flour?

Yes, you can use plain flour, but you will need to add ½ teaspoon of baking powder per 150g of flour to help the cookies rise slightly and maintain their light texture.

How Do I Make These Cookies More Flavorful?

For extra flavor, add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, lemon zest, cinnamon, or a pinch of salt to the dough. You can also dip the baked cookies in melted chocolate for a richer taste.

Can I Make Fork Cookies Without Butter?

Yes, you can replace butter with margarine or coconut oil, but the texture may be slightly different. Butter provides a richer flavor, so a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter is the best substitute for a similar taste and texture.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s 3-Ingredient Fork Cookies are a quick, easy, and delicious bake that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum buttery goodness. Perfect for tea-time treats or simple homemade baking, these cookies will quickly become a household favorite. Try them today for an easy, classic bake that everyone will love!