Difference between cookies and biscuits
The terms "cookies" and "biscuits" can have different meanings depending on where you are in the world. In some countries, like the United States, "cookie" refers to a sweet baked dessert, typically made with flour, sugar, butter, and other ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts. They are typically round and flat, with a soft or crispy texture.
On the other hand, in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries, as well as in some other parts of the world, "biscuit" refers to a variety of baked products that are typically savory rather than sweet. Biscuits often have a drier and crumbly texture compared to cookies, and they can come in various shapes like round, square, or oval. Examples of biscuits include shortbread, digestives, and cream crackers.
It's also worth mentioning that in the United States, the term "biscuit" refers to a different type of baked good, similar to a scone, which is often eaten with savory dishes like fried chicken or sausage gravy. These American biscuits are flaky, buttery, and typically not sweet.
In summary, the primary difference between cookies and biscuits is the terminology used in different regions of the world, as well as the general distinction that cookies are typically sweet, while biscuits can be either sweet or savory depending on the region.
Cookies and biscuits are terms commonly used to refer to two types of baked treats. The main differences between cookies and biscuits are in their ingredients, texture, and the regions they are commonly found in.
1. Ingredients:
Cookies: Cookies typically contain ingredients like butter, sugar, flour, eggs, and flavorings such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. They often have a soft and chewy texture.
Biscuits: Biscuits, on the other hand, generally have a simpler ingredient list, including flour, butter or shortening, baking powder, and milk. They have a slightly crumbly and flaky texture.
2. Texture:
Cookies: Cookies are known for their various textures, including soft and chewy, crispy, or crunchy. The texture can vary depending on the type of cookie and the baking time and temperature.
Biscuits: Biscuits typically have a light and flaky texture with layers that separate when baked. They are often enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven.
3. Regions:
Cookies: The term "cookie" is primarily used in North America. However, variations of cookies can be found in different cuisines worldwide, such as British biscuits, Italian biscotti, and French macarons.
Biscuits: The term "biscuit" is commonly used in the United Kingdom and Australia. In the United States, a biscuit refers to a different type of baked good, which is a soft and flaky bread roll.
In summary, cookies and biscuits differ in terms of ingredients, texture, and regional usage. Cookies tend to have a softer texture and are made with various ingredients like butter, sugar, and flavorings, while biscuits typically have a crumbly and flaky texture and are made with simpler ingredients like flour, butter, and baking powder. The terms "cookie" and "biscuit" are used in different regions, with "cookie" being more common in North America and "biscuit" in the UK and Australia.