Mary Berry Sultana Cookies Recipe

Name: Mary Berry Sultana Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 175g unsalted butter, softened; 150g caster sugar; 1 large egg; 225g self-raising flour; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 150g sultanas; Pinch of salt; Butter or baking paper for trays

If you enjoy classic British biscuits that are crisp around the edges and soft in the center, this Mary Berry Sultana Cookies Recipe is a wonderful choice. These buttery cookies are packed with sweet, juicy sultanas that add natural flavor and texture to every bite. They are simple to make, beginner-friendly, and perfect for afternoon tea, lunchboxes, or everyday baking. With a preparation and baking time of around 30 minutes, they are a quick homemade treat that always delivers delicious results.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

175g unsalted butter, softened
150g caster sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
225g self-raising flour
Pinch of salt
150g sultanas

For Preparing the Trays

Butter for greasing or baking parchment

How to Make Mary Berry Sultana Cookies Recipe

Prepare the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C or 160°C fan. Line two baking trays with baking parchment or lightly grease them.
Cream the butter and sugar: Place the softened butter and caster sugar into a large bowl. Beat together until light, pale, and fluffy.
Add the egg: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
Mix the dry ingredients: Add the self-raising flour and salt. Stir gently until a soft cookie dough forms.
Fold in the sultanas: Add the sultanas and mix until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Shape the cookies: Spoon small portions of dough onto the prepared trays, leaving space between each cookie for spreading.
Bake the cookies: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
Cool before serving: Leave the cookies on the trays for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Mary Berry Sultana Cookies

How do I keep the cookies soft in the middle?

Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden. They will continue to firm up while cooling.

Can I soak the sultanas first?

Yes. Soaking sultanas in warm water for 10 minutes can make them extra juicy and plump.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

The butter may be too warm. Chill the dough for 15 minutes before baking if needed.

How can I make the cookies more flavorful?

Add a pinch of cinnamon or mixed spice for a warm, traditional flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a cup of tea or coffee.
Pack into lunchboxes for a sweet treat.
Enjoy with a glass of cold milk.
Serve alongside fresh fruit.
Add to a homemade afternoon tea platter.

Storage

Room Temperature

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Refrigerator

Although not necessary, cookies can be refrigerated for up to 1 week in a sealed container.

Freezing

Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 145 kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Sodium: 65mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use raisins instead of sultanas?

Yes, raisins work well in this recipe and provide a slightly richer flavor.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Why are my cookies hard after baking?

They were likely baked too long. Remove them when the edges are lightly golden.

Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?

Yes, chocolate chips pair well with sultanas and can be added for extra sweetness.