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-base.
