Dorset Knobs
Dorset Knobs are very hard, spherical, twice-baked bread rolls from Dorset, traditionally made with bread dough, sugar, and butter. They are known for their long shelf life and unique texture, often enjoyed with cheese or dunked in tea.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Strong plain flour
- 300 g Plain flour
- 50 g Caster sugar
- 50 g Butter(cubed)
- 15 g Fresh yeast(or 7g dried yeast)
- 200 ml Water(lukewarm)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, mix together the flours and sugar. Rub in the butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
💡 Tip: Ensure the butter is cold for best results. - 2
If using fresh yeast, dissolve it in the lukewarm water and let it bubble for 5-10 minutes. If using dried yeast, add it to the flour mixture.
- 3
Add the yeast mixture (or the remaining water if using dried yeast) to the flour mixture. Knead until a soft, smooth dough forms.
💡 Tip: Knead for about 8-10 minutes on a lightly floured surface. - 4
Shape the dough into balls approximately 2.5-3cm in diameter. Place them on a greased and floured baking tray, ensuring they have space between them.
💡 Tip: The size can vary; traditionally they are about the size of a thumb. - 5
Cover the tray and leave in a warm place to prove for about 45 minutes, or until they have nearly doubled in size.
- 6
Preheat oven to 230°C (450°F/Gas Mark 8). Bake the knobs for 15 minutes, or until they are a pale golden colour.
- 7
Swap the trays around (top to bottom) and reduce the oven temperature to 150°C (300°F/Gas Mark 2). Bake for a further 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are completely dry and crunchy.
💡 Tip: This double baking process is crucial for their characteristic hardness and longevity. - 8
Allow to cool completely on a wire rack. Store in an airtight tin.
💡 Tip: They can last for several weeks if stored correctly.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Dorset Knobs are traditionally served with strong cheese like Blue Vinney.
- ✓They can be dunked in tea or ale.
- ✓For a slightly different flavour, a little ground ginger can be added to the dough.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes suggest a third baking for an even harder, more durable 'biscuit'.
- Ginger Knobs can be made by adding ground ginger to the dough.