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Shrewsbury Biscuits (Shrewsbury Cakes) Recipe
Homemade Shrewsbury biscuits! A British classic that tastes absolutely amazing and is also incredibly easy to make. Serve with a cup of tea for a moment of bliss!

Who can resist a delectable Shrewsbury biscuit? Especially when they’re freshly baked and still slightly warm from the oven… I certainly can’t!
Shrewsbury biscuits are so easy to make, it’s also a great recipe for budding bakers or to make with kids. It’s buttery, fruity, has the perfect balance of lemon and the smell is INSANE.
Making these biscuits is a great homage to the past, they date back to the 1600s in Shrewsbury (hence the name) and are still being made today.

Why You’ll Like This Recipe
- It’s really easy to make!
- You can create unique shapes and designs with the dough
- There’s no need to chill the dough (it holds its shape well)
- You can make traditional fruit Shrewsbury biscuits by adding dried currants or you can leave them out.
- It’s ready in just 20 minutes (so quick and simple)
Watch How To Make It
Where Did Shrewsbury Biscuits Come From?
Shrewsbury biscuits originated in a town called Shrewsbury in Shropshire, it’s known for its delicate and slightly crumbly texture. It’s slightly sweet and flavoured with currants and lemon zest.
Not only are they called Shrewsbury biscuits, but you might know them as Shrewsbury cakes too. Whatever name you call it, these biscuits taste so damn good!
Recipe Ingredients
Below are the few ingredients needed:
- Flour: This recipe uses plain flour to get the perfect crisp Shrewsbury biscuit texture. Avoid using self-raising flour.
- Butter: I like to use salted butter, but you can also use unsalted butter and add a quarter teaspoon of salt to help bring out the flavour.
- Sugar: Use caster sugar.
- Egg Yolk: Use eggs at room temperature for best results.
- Lemon: The zest of a lemon is added to the biscuit dough. If you don’t have lemon zest, you can use half a teaspoon of lemon extract instead.
- Currants (Optional): Use can currants, sultanas or raisins. If you don’t want to make fruit Shrewsbury biscuits, then you can miss this ingredient out.

How To Make Shrewsbury Biscuits
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make fruit Shrewsbury biscuits. Full recipe instructions are on the recipe card:
Step One:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (gas mark 6, 180°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add an egg yolk and mix until combined.
Step Two:

