10 Classic British Biscuits to Dunk in Your Tea
No proper tea break is complete without the perfect biscuit to dunk. Whether you prefer a crumbly, buttery treat or something with a bit more crunch, British biscuits are beloved for their ability to pair beautifully with a good cup of tea. Here are 10 classic British biscuits that are perfect for dunking, offering that satisfying balance of flavour and texture.
Digestive Biscuits
The humble digestive biscuit is a true British staple, with its slightly sweet, wheaty flavour and crumbly texture. Originally created in the 19th century, these biscuits hold up well when dipped into a hot cuppa, absorbing just the right amount of tea without falling apart. They come in plain or chocolate-coated varieties, with the latter adding an extra layer of indulgence to your tea break.
Rich Tea
Rich Tea biscuits are another classic, known for their mild sweetness and firm texture. Their simplicity is their charm, making them the perfect biscuit for a light, unfussy dunk. They soak up tea quickly but remain firm enough for a satisfying bite. These biscuits are a favourite for those who enjoy a lighter snack with their tea.
Hobnobs
For those who love a bit of crunch, Hobnobs are the ultimate choice. Made with rolled oats, these biscuits have a hearty, rustic texture that holds up well when dunked. Available in both plain and chocolate-covered varieties, Hobnobs have a delightful oaty flavour that pairs wonderfully with tea, especially when you’re looking for a biscuit with substance.
Bourbon Biscuits
Bourbons are a firm favourite for chocolate lovers. These rectangular biscuits are sandwiched with a rich, chocolatey filling, making them a perfect indulgence during your tea break. The biscuits have a firm texture that stands up to dunking, while the creamy centre softens beautifully in hot tea. A classic since their invention in the early 20th century, Bourbons remain a popular choice for a sweet treat with tea.
Custard Creams
Custard creams are a timeless biscuit known for their intricate design and vanilla-flavoured cream filling. Sandwiched between two crisp, golden biscuits, the creamy filling softens nicely when dipped into tea, while the biscuits retain their crunch. Custard creams are a sweet and nostalgic choice for tea lovers, often reminding people of childhood teatimes.
Ginger Nuts
If you prefer a bit of spice with your tea, ginger nuts are the perfect biscuit. These firm, crunchy biscuits are flavoured with warming ginger, and their sturdy texture means they can be dunked in tea without falling apart. The spicy kick of ginger complements the sweetness of the tea, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy a more robust flavour.
Jammie Dodgers
For a playful twist, Jammie Dodgers are a favourite among both children and adults. These round, sandwich-style biscuits feature a layer of sweet, sticky jam in the centre, typically raspberry or strawberry-flavoured. The shortbread-like biscuit becomes soft and buttery when dunked, while the jam adds a fruity contrast. Dunking them in tea makes the jam slightly gooey, making for an extra delicious bite.
Shortbread
Few things are as classically British as shortbread, with its rich, buttery flavour and crumbly texture. Made with simple ingredients—flour, sugar, and butter—shortbread is a luxurious treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea. Its dense texture makes it ideal for dunking, and the biscuit softens without falling apart, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Nice Biscuits
Known for their subtle coconut flavour and sugary topping, Nice biscuits are a light and delicate option for tea time. The sweetness of the coconut pairs beautifully with tea, and their crisp texture softens just the right amount when dunked. Despite their delicate appearance, Nice biscuits hold up well to being dipped, making them a lovely, tropical-flavoured treat.
Fruit Shortcake
For those who enjoy a bit of fruit with their tea, fruit shortcake biscuits are an ideal choice. These biscuits are studded with currants or raisins, adding a touch of sweetness and chewiness to each bite. Their crisp texture and fruity filling make them a perfect companion for tea, as they soften slightly while retaining their shape when dunked. The combination of buttery biscuit and dried fruit creates a comforting, homely flavour.