National Dish Malta: Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa, the little almond biscuits that have sweetened Maltese tea tables for generations. Fragrant with cinnamon and vanilla, they are crisp at the edges and beautifully tender in the middle. There is no complicated technique to master and no long list of ingredients — just ground almonds, sugar, a whisper of spice and twenty minutes in the oven. Bake a batch and you have a taste of the Mediterranean islands ready for any occasion.
About Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa
Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa are a genuine jewel of Maltese cuisine. These delightful biscuits are known for their delicate texture and the rich flavour of almonds and warming spices. They are not only a favourite snack alongside a pot of tea but also a festive treat often served at special gatherings. Their roots reach back to the 18th century, which makes them a meaningful part of Malta’s food culture.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g ground almonds
- 100 g sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla sugar
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt
Shopping for the ingredients
To get the very best results, choose fresh, good-quality ingredients. Ideally the almonds should be unblanched and freshly toasted so their full, rounded flavour really comes through. The sugar and spices deserve the same care, since they shape the character of the biscuits more than you might expect. You will usually find everything you need in a well-stocked supermarket or a specialist delicatessen.
Preparing the dish
Getting ready to make Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa is straightforward and calls for no special kitchen skills. Begin by laying out all your ingredients and preheating the oven to 180°C. Make sure the almonds are finely ground so they blend smoothly with the sugar and spices. A useful trick is to toast the almonds briefly in a dry pan first, which deepens their aroma considerably.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: ground almonds, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla sugar and a pinch of salt.
- Add the egg to the dry mixture and stir thoroughly until you have a smooth, even dough.
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll each one into a ball.
- Place the balls on a baking tray lined with baking paper and flatten them slightly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15–20 minutes, until golden brown.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
One of the great advantages of Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa is that they are naturally gluten-free and lactose-free. Anyone with an intolerance can therefore enjoy them without a second thought. Do check the almonds and other ingredients for allergens, especially if you are using packaged products. That way you can be confident the recipe is enjoyed exactly as it should be.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan version of Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa, simply replace the egg with an alternative binder. Apple purée works beautifully, as does a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water and left to thicken for 10 minutes). Check the remaining ingredients for animal products too, particularly the sugar if you are being strict. With those small swaps, vegans can enjoy these biscuits just as much as anyone else.
More tips and tricks
For the best flavour, let the biscuits cool completely before serving — that resting time allows the aromas to settle and develop. You can also dust them with a light layer of icing sugar for a sweet, decorative finish. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crisp for longer. If you enjoy this kind of unfussy island baking, the honey-soaked Qagħaq tal-Għasel is a natural next project.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The recipe adapts happily to whatever you fancy. Try folding in chocolate chips or dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries for an extra layer of flavour. If you prefer something spicier, a little nutmeg or a pinch of ground ginger works wonderfully. Let your imagination lead and shape the Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa entirely to your own taste.
Ingredient substitutions
If you have no almonds to hand, other nuts such as hazelnuts or walnuts do the job nicely. They give the biscuits a different character but remain every bit as good. The sugar can likewise be swapped for an alternative sweetener such as honey or agave syrup, though this will soften the dough a little. Experiment freely and you may well land on your own signature version — much as bakers do with the almond-rich Kwareżimal.
Drink pairing ideas
Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa go beautifully with a cup of black tea or a mild green tea. A fruity herbal infusion is another lovely match for these sweet little biscuits. For special occasions, serve them with a glass of sparkling wine or port to round off the experience. Choose a drink that echoes the sweet, nutty notes rather than competing with them.
Serving and presentation ideas
To present Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa attractively, arrange them on a pretty serving platter and garnish with a few fresh mint leaves. Alternatively, pack them into small gift tins to give to friends and family. Elegant tableware shows the biscuits off to their best advantage and turns them into a highlight of the tea table — especially served alongside a slice of Ricotta Pie.
A bit of history
The tradition of Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa runs deep in Maltese culture and is closely bound up with celebrations and festive gatherings. The biscuits began life as a simple snack for labourers: quick to make and easy to carry. Over time they grew into a delicate speciality that has become a fixture in many Maltese households, much like the beloved Pastizzi on the savoury side of Maltese cuisine. Affection for these biscuits is handed down from one generation to the next, helping to keep the island’s traditions alive.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa
In short, Biskuttini bil-Ħlewwa offer a wonderful way to enjoy Maltese culture and its traditions in biscuit form. They are simple to prepare and deliver a flavour experience that is hard to match. With their rich, nutty aromas and the ease with which they can be adapted to different tastes, they are a genuine treat for any occasion. Do not miss the chance to try this sweet island delicacy for yourself.
