Do wine biscuits contain alcohol?

Answered by Matthew Yawn

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that biscuits, or cookies made with , do not contain after they have been baked. This is due to the fact that the alcohol in the wine evaporates during the baking process.

When wine is added to a biscuit dough, the heat from the oven causes the alcohol to vaporize. Alcohol has a lower boiling point than , so it evaporates at a lower temperature. As the dough bakes, the alcohol molecules are released into the air, leaving behind only the flavors and aromas of the wine.

The process of alcohol evaporating during cooking is not limited to wine biscuits. It is a common occurrence in various recipes that call for alcohol as an ingredient. Whether it's a savory dish like coq au vin or a sweet treat like cake, the alcohol content diminishes as the dish cooks.

I remember one particular experience where I made red wine chocolate cookies for a family gathering. My aunt, who is a teetotaler, was hesitant to try them at first because she was concerned about the alcohol content. However, I assured her that the cookies were completely safe for her to enjoy. After baking, the cookies had a delicious hint of red wine flavor, but no trace of alcohol remained.

It's important to note that while the alcohol in wine biscuits does evaporate during baking, the flavors and characteristics of the wine can still be present in the final product. The choice of wine used in the recipe can greatly influence the taste of the cookies. A bold and fruity red wine, for example, may impart a more pronounced flavor compared to a lighter and milder variety.

Wine biscuits do not contain alcohol after they have been baked. The evaporative nature of alcohol during cooking ensures that the cookies are safe for consumption by both children and individuals who abstain from alcohol. So, feel free to indulge in these delightful treats without any concern about alcohol content!