McVitie’s, the renowned biscuit maker, has introduced its inaugural Chief Dunking Officer, Dr. Helen Pilcher, who is set to revolutionise the art of biscuit dunking. Dr. Pilcher reveals the exact duration biscuits should be dipped to avoid the dreaded disintegration into mush, addressing the nation’s biscuit-related woes.
As the UK’s first Chief Dunking Officer, Dr. Pilcher aims to put an end to gritty “over-dunking” experiences by delving into the science behind the ‘perfect tea dunk.’ With a focus on McVitie’s classics such as Digestives, Hobnobs, Gingernuts, and Jaffa Cakes, each biscuit’s unique texture, structure, flavour, and size play a role in its “dunkability.”
Embed from Getty ImagesAccording to Dr. Pilcher’s ‘Biscuit Immersion’ study, the ‘perfect dunk’ occurs when a biscuit absorbs just enough liquid to enhance its softness and flavour, striking the balance between texture and mushiness.
McVitie’s enlisted ten of its popular biscuits for the study, including Digestives, Hobnobs, Gingernuts, Jaffa Cakes, and Penguins. Dr. Pilcher dunked each vertically to its midpoint in a mug of freshly prepared tea (milk, no sugar) maintained at 60 to 65°C.
The study revealed fascinating insights, showcasing the optimal dunking times and danger zones for each biscuit. For instance, the gingernut biscuit achieves dunking perfection in just 0.30 seconds, while the chocolate hobnob requires 3.7 seconds.
Dr. Pilcher emphasises the importance of avoiding the “dunking danger zone,” characterised by signs like disintegration, bending, or the appearance of a fault line. The study also includes suggested beverage pairings for each biscuit, providing a comprehensive guide for biscuit enthusiasts.
In Dr. Pilcher’s words, “For the optimal dunking experience, it is crucial not to dunk beyond the dunking danger zone. It’s utter dunking madness to enter this structurally dangerous territory.”
McVitie’s Chief Dunking Officer has successfully blended science and indulgence to offer biscuit lovers a guide to the perfect dunk, ensuring that every tea time is a delightful and satisfying experience.
