Lattice Biscuit Slice: A Sweet Nostalgia

There’s something about the simple elegance of a lattice biscuit that always evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia. I remember my grandmother, Nana Elsie, always having a tin of them on hand. They were perfect for dunking into a steaming cup of tea during our after-school visits. This Lattice Biscuit Slice is my tribute to those fond memories, a delicious and easy-to-make treat that captures the comforting essence of those afternoons spent in her sun-drenched kitchen. It’s a slice of pure happiness, reimagined.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (refrigeration time only)
• Total Time: 20 minutes + refrigeration
• Servings: 12-24
• Yield: 1 slice
• Dietary Type: Not specified (contains dairy)

Ingredients

• 250 g cream cheese
• 250 g unsalted butter
• 1 cup caster sugar (super fine)
• 40 g gelatin, dissolved in 1/2 cup boiling water
• 2 (200 g) packets lattice biscuits

Equipment Needed

• Lamington tin (approximately 11″x8″)
• Foil
• Food processor or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Refrigerator

Instructions

1. Start by lining your lamington tin (approximately 11″x8″) with foil. Make sure the foil extends over the edges to make it easier to lift the slice out later.

2. Arrange the lattice biscuits face down on the bottom of the prepared tin to create a base layer. It’s fine if you need to break some biscuits to fit perfectly. We want to fully cover the bottom of the tin.

3. Now, for the filling. In a food processor or using an electric mixer, combine the cream cheese, unsalted butter, and caster sugar. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier incorporation, but do not melt it.

4. Next, in a separate heatproof bowl, dissolve the gelatin in 1/2 cup of boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is clear.

5. Pour the dissolved gelatin mixture into the cream cheese mixture and blend until well combined. The consistency should be smooth and even.

6. Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the layer of lattice biscuits in the tin, spreading it evenly to cover the base.

7. Arrange another layer of lattice biscuits on top of the cream cheese filling, this time with the lattice side facing up. This will create the classic lattice pattern on the top of the slice.

8. Refrigerate the slice until it is completely set. This will usually take at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better to ensure it’s firm enough to cut.

9. Once the slice is set, lift it out of the tin using the foil overhang.

10. Using a sharp knife, cut the slice into desired sizes. You can cut it into whole squares to match the biscuit shapes or into strips for a more elegant presentation.

11. Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t melt the butter: It’s crucial to use softened butter but not melted. Melted butter will alter the texture of the filling.
• Prevent a runny mix: If your cream cheese mixture seems too runny after adding the gelatin, place it in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes to firm up slightly before pouring it over the biscuits.
• Perfect cuts: For neat and clean cuts, use a warm, dry knife. Run the knife under hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.
• Even biscuit distribution: For an even base, it can be beneficial to lightly press the first layer of biscuits into the base of the foil-lined tin.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Lattice Biscuit Slice chilled, straight from the refrigerator. It’s a delightful treat on its own, perfect for afternoon tea or as a light dessert. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Due to the gelatin, freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture. The biscuits may soften slightly over time, but the flavour will remain delicious.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value (approximate)
Calories	298 kcal	15%
Total Fat	24g	37%
Saturated Fat	15g	76%
Cholesterol	68mg	22%
Sodium	71mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	17g	5%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	17g	66%
Protein	5g	9%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: To make this slice dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives. Look for vegan cream cheese and butter substitutes in your local supermarket. Be mindful that the texture and taste might slightly differ from the original recipe.
• Biscuit Variations: Experiment with different types of biscuits for the base and topping. Digestive biscuits or graham crackers could be used for a different flavor profile.
• Flavor Infusion: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavour.
• Chocolate version: Add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder to the filling for a chocolate twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of gelatin?
A: Yes, you can use powdered gelatin sheets. Just ensure you use the equivalent amount (40g) and dissolve it properly in the boiling water according to the package instructions.

Q: The mixture is too runny. What should I do?
A: If the cream cheese mixture appears too runny after adding the gelatin, refrigerate it for 5-10 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly before pouring it over the biscuit base.

Q: How long does the slice need to set in the fridge?
A: It’s best to refrigerate the slice for at least 4 hours, but overnight is recommended to ensure it’s fully set and easy to cut.

Q: Can I freeze this slice?
A: Freezing isn’t recommended as it can change the texture of the cream cheese filling due to the gelatin.

Q: My biscuits are soggy. What did I do wrong?
A: Ensuring the filling isn’t too runny before adding the top layer of biscuits is key. Also, make sure the slice is adequately chilled before cutting to prevent the biscuits from becoming soggy.

Final Thoughts

This Lattice Biscuit Slice is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey back to simpler times, a taste of comfort, and a chance to create lasting memories. I encourage you to give it a try, embrace the simplicity of the ingredients, and share it with loved ones. Feel free to experiment with variations, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Let me know what you think, and don’t hesitate to share your own twist on this classic treat. I hope this slice brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.