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Bourbon Biscuits: A Sweet Royal Treat with Fascinating History

Bourbon Biscuits: A Sweet Royal Treat with Fascinating History

The Sweet History of Bourbon Biscuits

The Origin of Bourbon Biscuits

Bourbon biscuits, beloved by many, have a fascinating origin that ties them to royalty and whisky. Invented in 1910 by Peek Frean & Co, a Bermondsey company known for Garibaldi and Twiglets, the biscuits have been delighting taste buds for over a century. Originally known as Creola, the biscuits carried this name for the first two decades of their existence.

From Creola to Bourbon

In the 1930s, a product manager at Peek Frean & Co decided on a name change inspired by the House of Bourbon, a powerful royal lineage. This name not only added a touch of French royalty but also resonated with a sense of elegance. Interestingly, Bourbon biscuits share their name with Bourbon whisky, named after Bourbon County, Kentucky, and Bourbon Street in New Orleans, both nods to Bourbon Louis XVI and the Bourbon Duke of Orleans.

The Baking Process of Bourbon Biscuits

The distinctive holes in Bourbon biscuits aren’t just decorative. They play a crucial role in the baking process. During baking, these holes allow steam to escape, preventing the biscuits from cracking and splitting. As Mark Greenwell, a team manager at Carlisle’s pladis factory, shared on Channel 4’s Food Unwrapped, these holes ensure the product remains controllable and maintains its shape.

A Sweet, Royal Treat

Bourbon biscuits, with their rich history and delicious taste, have earned a special place in the hearts of biscuit lovers. Their name, linked to the Bourbon whisky and the royal family, adds an extra layer of intrigue and charm. So, the next time you enjoy a Bourbon biscuit, you’ll have a fascinating story to share about its royal origins and connection to Bourbon whisky and the Bourbon Duke.

Timeline Event
1910 Invention by Peek Frean & Co.
1930s Name changed to Bourbon.

Final Thought

Understanding the history behind Bourbon biscuits enhances the enjoyment of this classic treat. Whether you’re a fan of biscuits or simply love a good story, Bourbon biscuits offer a delightful connection to the past and a tasty treat for the present. Enjoy them with a cup of tea, and remember their royal heritage and unique baking process!

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Dylan Smith

Dylan Smith

Dylan Smith is a renowned bourbon connoisseur and author, whose passion for the amber spirit has taken him on a journey through America's distilleries, discovering the rich history and complex flavors that define bourbon. With more than a decade of first-hand experience and research, Dylan's expertise is unmatched, offering insights into the art of bourbon tasting, production, and collecting. His writings not only enlighten enthusiasts but also guide newcomers through the intricacies of this celebrated American whisky, making him a revered voice in the bourbon community.