While technically more of a bread roll than a biscuit, Dorset Knobs are made by a biscuit company and have been since the Victorian times, so it’s only fair that we spread the word this National Biscuit Day. Plus, Dorset Knobs are crispy and crumbly, like a biscuit rather than a bread.
Whether you view them as a biscuit or a bread roll, we’re sure that even if you’ve never tasted a real Dorset Knob made to the original recipe, you will have heard of them, especially with the Knob Throwing Festival which takes place every few years. If you want to brush up on your knowledge of this legendary biscuit, read on!
- Dorset Knobs were originally made to use up leftover bread dough. Extra butter and sugar was added and they were then hand rolled and left to dry in the dying heat of the oven.
- Dorset Knobs are about the size of a golf ball and are crumbly and dry.
- Modern day Dorset Knobs are still made with bread dough with added butter and sugar and they are still hand rolled, but these days they are baked three times to get the right level of crispiness.
- The name, though a source of hilarity to outsiders, is thought to have come from the Dorset Knob Buttons which were hand sewn and produced locally.
- Originally, Dorset Knobs were made by bakers all over the county as a way to reduce waste, but now they are only made by one company, Moores Biscuits.
- Moores Biscuits produce the Dorset Knobs only during January and February because it takes 10 hours to make each batch!
- The best way to enjoy a Dorset Knob is with a strong cheese. That’s how Thomas Hardy, the author, liked to eat his! Traditionally they were also eaten dipped in tea or cider. You can also eat them with honey and cream – a treat known as a thunder and lightning.
- As well as being a tasty treat, Dorset Knobs are also fun! The Knob Throwing Festival is held on the first Sunday in May most years and visitors can enjoy various activities including throwing them, guess the weight of the knob, the knob and spoon race and more! We’re all hoping the festival will return in 2021!
