The Core Ingredients of Biscoff Spread
Often referred to as Biscoff butter, the product is more accurately known as Biscoff Cookie Butter, since it contains no dairy-derived butter in its recipe. The spread is created by finely crushing the famous caramelized Biscoff cookies and combining them with other ingredients to create a smooth, spreadable consistency.
The ingredient list for the standard Lotus Biscoff spread includes:
- Original Biscoff cookies (wheat flour, sugar, vegetable oils like palm and rapeseed, candy sugar syrup, leavening, soy flour, salt, cinnamon)
- Canola oil
- Sugar
- Soy lecithin (emulsifier)
- Citric acid
As you can see, the list contains no milk, whey, or butter fat, making it suitable for a dairy-free diet. This is a key reason for its popularity among vegans and those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. The original cookies themselves also follow a dairy-free recipe.
Important Considerations: Cross-Contamination
While the recipe is dairy-free, individuals with severe dairy allergies should always check for potential cross-contamination warnings on the packaging. Lotus has noted on its website that some of its products, particularly certain cream sandwich cookies, are manufactured on the same lines as other products that contain milk. For the Biscoff spreads, Lotus labels their product as being made in a nut-free facility and states it is vegan-friendly. However, it's wise to stay informed and vigilant for the latest manufacturer information if you have a severe allergy.
Biscoff Products: Dairy-Free vs. Containing Dairy
It is vital to distinguish between the various Lotus Biscoff products, as not all of them are dairy-free. Being knowledgeable about which items are safe to consume is key for anyone with a dairy restriction.
| Biscoff Product | Dairy-Free Status | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Original Biscoff Cookies | Yes | The recipe is completely free of milk and other dairy ingredients. |
| Biscoff Cookie Butter (Smooth) | Yes | Made from dairy-free Biscoff cookies, vegetable oils, and sugar. |
| Biscoff Cookie Butter (Crunchy) | Yes | Same base recipe as the smooth version, with added crunchy cookie pieces. |
| Biscoff Sandwich Cookies (Vanilla) | Yes (Recipe Only) | The recipe is vegan, but may contain traces of milk due to shared manufacturing equipment. |
| Biscoff Sandwich Cookies (Biscoff Cream) | Yes (Recipe Only) | The recipe is vegan, but may contain traces of milk due to shared manufacturing equipment. |
| Biscoff Chocolate Sandwich Cookies | No | These cookies specifically list skimmed milk powder and butter oil in their ingredients. |
| Biscoff Ice Cream | No | The ice cream base contains dairy products like skim milk and cream. |
How to Use Biscoff Spread in a Dairy-Free Diet
Because Biscoff spread is inherently dairy-free, it is an incredibly versatile ingredient for vegan and dairy-free baking and cooking. It can be used as a simple topping or a core component in more complex recipes. Here are some dairy-free ways to enjoy Biscoff spread:
- Drizzled on desserts: Use it to top dairy-free ice cream, cakes, or pancakes.
- Used as a filling: Incorporate it into dairy-free cheesecake recipes or as a filling for cookies.
- Baked into treats: Add it to vegan muffins or brownies for a caramelized flavor.
- Simple spread: Enjoy it on toast, bagels, or with apple slices.
Conclusion
In summary, the original Biscoff butter spread is indeed dairy-free, with its recipe relying on plant-based ingredients like crushed cookies and vegetable oils. This makes it a great choice for individuals following a vegan diet or avoiding dairy for other health reasons. However, it's essential to remember that not all Lotus Biscoff products are dairy-free, particularly those with chocolate or creamy fillings. Always check the ingredient list and allergen information on the specific product packaging, especially if you have a severe dairy allergy, as cross-contamination can be a risk. For the purest and safest option, stick with the classic spread and original cookies.
