In Britain, the humble Bourbon biscuit is a staple in tea-time rituals and biscuit tins across the country.
With its iconic rectangular shape, chocolatey flavour, and distinctive 10 holes across the top, this classic treat has been a favourite for more than a century.
But have you ever wondered why those tiny holes, or “docker holes,” are there?
As it turns out, they’re not just for decoration but play a key role in perfecting the biscuit’s texture and structure.
Mark Greenwell, team manager at the United Biscuits factory in Carlisle, which produces McVitie’s biscuits, explained the purpose behind these docker holes during an episode of Food Unwrapped on Channel 4.
“If the holes weren’t there, steam would build up inside the biscuits,” Greenwell told host Kate Quilton.
“The biscuits would collapse back down, and you wouldn’t have a controllable product.”
These holes allow steam to escape, ensuring an even bake and helping the biscuit maintain its shape and signature crunch.
This lesser-known fact about bourbon biscuits recently went viral on X, sparking a wave of reactions.
One user humorously admitted: “I thought it was a money-saving tactic by the company to cumulatively save tons of biscuit material.”
Others simply appreciated the newfound knowledge, with one fan commenting: “This is something I never knew I needed to know, but I’m glad I do now!”
The bourbon biscuit has a rich history that stretches back to 1910 when it was created by the London-based company Peek Freans.
Originally called “Creola,” the name was soon changed to “Bourbon,” likely inspired by the former French royal House of Bourbon, invoking a sense of luxury and elegance.
Despite its name, the biscuit contains no bourbon whiskey, just a simple but delicious combination of chocolate-flavored biscuits sandwiching a layer of chocolate buttercream.
Over the decades, the bourbon biscuit has become a cultural icon, beloved for its classic taste and charming design.
Whether dunked in tea or enjoyed straight from the packet, this iconic treat remains a go-to comfort food, thanks in part to those precisely placed docker holes that give it its perfect texture.
