If you’re looking for a deliciously crunchy, oaty treat to dunk in your afternoon tea, look no further than this classic homemade Hobnobs recipe. These biscuits are a perfect blend of simple ingredients, bringing together a satisfying crunch with a slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea. The addition of optional milk chocolate on top adds a touch of indulgence, making these biscuits perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or sharing with friends and family, this homemade Hobnobs recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
What Is the Classic Homemade Hobnobs Recipe?
The Classic Homemade Hobnobs recipe is a delightful treat that’s packed with oats and a deliciously crunchy texture. Traditionally, Hobnobs were sold as a commercial biscuit, but this homemade version elevates the classic by giving you complete control over the ingredients and the ability to make them even fresher and tastier. The recipe is simple, requiring just a few pantry staples, and the result is a biscuit with a comforting, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor. The oats provide a wonderful chewiness, while the butter and sugar give them a rich taste, with an option to add chocolate for extra indulgence.
The Origin of Homemade Hobnobs
The Hobnob biscuit has a unique history that traces back to the United Kingdom. The name “Hobnob” is thought to derive from the old British expression “hobnob,” which means to toast or share a drink with someone in a friendly way. This could be a nod to the idea of sharing a delicious biscuit with a cup of tea. The biscuit itself has roots in the 1980s, when McVitie’s, one of the UK’s most popular biscuit manufacturers, introduced the Hobnob as part of their biscuit line. The original Hobnob became a national favorite, known for its simple ingredients, slightly sweet flavor, and hearty crunch from the oats.
However, this homemade version allows you to bring the beloved treat right into your kitchen and make it from scratch. With a little time and effort, you can recreate this classic biscuit at home, enjoying the same flavor and texture that made Hobnobs a household name.
Ingredients for the Classic Homemade Hobnobs (Makes ~16 Biscuits)
To make this delicious homemade Hobnobs recipe, you will need the following ingredients. The key to getting that perfect texture and flavor is in the combination of oats, wholemeal flour, and butter, along with a hint of golden syrup to bring everything together.
For the Biscuits:
- 100g unsalted butter or baking spread (room temperature)
- 100g light brown soft sugar (provides a soft sweetness)
- 50g golden syrup (adds richness and depth)
- 125g rolled oats (the star ingredient, giving the biscuits their signature texture)
- 150g wholemeal plain flour (for the perfect crumbly base)
- ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda (helps the biscuits rise)
- ½ tsp sea salt (balances the sweetness)
Optional Chocolate Topping:
- 100g milk chocolate (melted, for a decadent chocolatey finish)
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method for Homemade Hobnobs
Now, let’s dive into the process of making these classic homemade Hobnobs. Follow these simple instructions to bake your very own batch of crispy, oaty biscuits.
1. Prep the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line 2–3 baking trays with parchment paper to prevent the biscuits from sticking.
2. Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and golden syrup until smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your dough.
- Gradually add the rolled oats, wholemeal flour, bicarbonate of soda, and sea salt. Stir everything together until the dough is fully combined. It should be slightly sticky but hold its shape.
3. Shape the Biscuits
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out heaped portions of dough. Alternatively, you can use a 4cm cookie scoop for consistency.
- Roll the dough into balls, then flatten them slightly on the baking trays with your fingers. Leave a little space between each biscuit to allow for spreading.
4. Bake
- Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake the biscuits for 12–15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. If you prefer your Hobnobs extra crunchy, leave them in for the full 15 minutes.
- Once baked, remove the trays from the oven and allow the biscuits to cool completely on the trays. They will harden and crisp up as they cool.
5. Add the Chocolate (Optional)
- For an extra indulgent treat, you can melt the milk chocolate and spread a thin layer on the base of each biscuit. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or speed up the process by placing them in the fridge.
Tips and Variations for Homemade Hobnobs
Gluten-Free Hobnobs
- To make gluten-free Hobnobs, simply use gluten-free oats and flour. You may also need to add ¼ tsp of xanthan gum per 150g of flour to help bind the ingredients together and improve texture.
Dairy-Free Hobnobs
- If you need a dairy-free version, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free chocolate for the topping. These substitutions won’t compromise the texture or taste of the biscuits.
Storage
- These homemade Hobnobs will keep for up to 7 days in an airtight container, making them a great treat to have on hand for busy days. If you’d like to make a larger batch, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just place the biscuits in a freezer-safe container, and they will be ready to thaw and enjoy whenever you’re in the mood for a crunchy snack.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) About Homemade Hobnobs
1. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
- While wholemeal flour gives the biscuits a lovely texture, you can experiment with all-purpose flour or even oat flour for a slightly different taste. However, wholemeal flour tends to work best for that perfect Hobnob texture.
2. How can I make these Oaty Hobnobs more chocolatey?
- For an extra chocolatey twist, try dipping the whole biscuit into the melted chocolate instead of just spreading it on the base. This will give you a more indulgent treat, perfect for any chocolate lover.
3. Can I add other ingredients like raisins or nuts?
- Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add ingredients like raisins, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist on the classic recipe. Just be sure not to overfill the dough, as it might affect the biscuit’s texture.
4. What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
- If the dough feels too sticky to handle, add a little more flour (a tablespoon at a time) until it reaches a workable consistency. You don’t want the dough to be too dry, but it should be firm enough to roll into balls and shape.
Conclusion: A Classic Biscuit Recipe Perfect for Every Tea Time
In conclusion, this classic homemade Hobnobs recipe is a wonderful way to bring a beloved treat from the UK into your own home. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create biscuits that are just as good, if not better, than the store-bought versions. The combination of oats, golden syrup, and butter creates a biscuit with the perfect crunch and a deliciously chewy center. And if you want to take it up a notch, the optional chocolate topping adds a rich, indulgent finish.
Whether you prefer your Hobnobs plain, with chocolate, or with a personal twist, this recipe is adaptable and sure to satisfy your taste buds. The best part? They’re perfect for dunking into a hot cup of tea, making them a classic companion for a cozy afternoon. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the magic of homemade Hobnobs!
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Classic Homemade Hobnobs Recipe: Crunchy, Oaty, and Perfect for Dunking in Tea
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Classic Homemade Hobnobs recipe is a delightful treat that’s packed with oats and a deliciously crunchy texture. Traditionally, Hobnobs were sold as a commercial biscuit, but this homemade version elevates the classic by giving you complete control over the ingredients and the ability to make them even fresher and tastier. The recipe is simple, requiring just a few pantry staples, and the result is a biscuit with a comforting, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor. The oats provide a wonderful chewiness, while the butter and sugar give them a rich taste, with an option to add chocolate for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
For the biscuits:
- 100g unsalted butter or baking spread
- 100g light brown soft sugar
- 50g golden syrup
- 125g rolled oats
- 150g wholemeal plain flour
- ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
- ½ tsp sea salt
Optional chocolate topping:
- 100g milk chocolate (melted)
Instructions
- Prep the oven: Preheat to 180°C (160°C fan) and line 2–3 baking trays with parchment paper.
- Make the dough: Beat together butter, sugar, and golden syrup until smooth. Add oats, flour, bicarbonate of soda, and salt. Mix until fully combined.
- Shape the biscuits: Scoop heaped tablespoons of dough (or use a 4cm cookie scoop), roll into balls, and flatten slightly on the tray.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden. For extra crunch, go for the full 15 minutes. Let cool completely on the trays.
- Add chocolate (optional): Once cooled, spread melted chocolate on the base of each biscuit. Let set at room temp or chill briefly in the fridge.
Notes
For extra indulgence, dip the cooled hobnobs in melted dark or milk chocolate. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oats for a warm, spiced twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: Classic Homemade Hobnobs Recipe
