1. Anzac Biscuits (Australia/New Zealand): Anzac biscuits are a classic Australian and New Zealand treat. They are made with rolled oats, coconut, golden syrup, and butter, giving them a chewy and delicious texture.
2. Speculoos (Belgium/Netherlands): Speculoos, also known as Dutch windmill cookies, are spiced shortcrust biscuits with flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. They are popular in Belgium and the Netherlands, especially during the holiday season.
3. Alfajores (Latin America): Alfajores are a sweet treat popular in several Latin American countries. These sandwich biscuits consist of two shortbread-like cookies filled with dulce de leche (caramelized milk) and sometimes rolled in coconut flakes or powdered sugar.
4. Pryaniki (Russia): Pryaniki are traditional Russian spiced honey biscuits. They often feature intricate designs and are flavored with spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
5. Biscotti (Italy): Biscotti are twice-baked, crunchy Italian biscuits usually made with almonds. They come in various flavors, such as anise, chocolate, almond, or citrus.
6. Melting Moments (United Kingdom): Melting Moments are soft, crumbly, and buttery biscuits popular in the United Kingdom and Australia. They often melt in your mouth, hence the name.
7. Madeleines (France): While not traditionally categorized as biscuits, madeleines are small sponge cakes shaped like shells. They are beloved in France and have a delicate flavor often enhanced with lemon zest.
8. Ma’amoul (Middle East): Ma’amoul are filled shortbread biscuits that are common in the Middle East, especially during festive occasions like Eid. They are often filled with dates, nuts, or figs and flavored with rosewater or orange blossom water.
9. Koulourakia (Greece): Koulourakia are Greek biscuits shaped into various twists or knots. They are often flavored with vanilla, citrus, or almond, and are popular during Easter and other celebrations.
10. Kango (Japan): Kango biscuits are a Japanese favorite, known for their unique flavors and shapes. They come in various styles, ranging from sweet to savory and often have cute character designs.
11. Viennese Whirls (Austria/United Kingdom): Viennese whirls are a delicate biscuit filled with buttercream or jam. They originated in Austria but have become popular in the United Kingdom as well.
12. Nankhatai (India): Nankhatai are Indian shortbread biscuits that incorporate ghee (clarified butter) and are flavored with cardamom or saffron.
These are just a few examples of the wide array of biscuit flavors found around the world. Biscuits continue to evolve and adapt to local tastes, making them a universally beloved treat enjoyed by people of all cultures.
