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When you’re craving something cozy, crunchy, and just the right amount of chocolatey, homemade chocolate hobnobs will absolutely hit the spot. These iconic British biscuits blend buttery oats with golden syrup and a layer of rich chocolate, creating that unmistakable texture and flavor we’ve come to love. There’s a gentle chew from the oats, a crumbly bite from the flour, and that glorious chocolate snap that seals the deal.

Making them from scratch not only fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma, but also allows you to adjust the sweetness and pick your favorite chocolate topping. Whether you’re pairing them with an afternoon cup of tea or sneaking one (or three) from the cookie jar, these hobnobs taste far better than anything store-bought.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Chocolate Hobnobs Recipe

You get all the nostalgic charm of classic hobnobs with the added joy of a homemade touch. They’re surprisingly simple to make and perfect for prepping ahead. The rolled oats provide a hearty base, while the brown sugar and golden syrup give the biscuits their signature toffee-like flavor. Topped with a generous spread of chocolate, they strike a balance between rustic and indulgent.

These biscuits hold up beautifully for days and even freeze well, making them an excellent addition to any bake-and-store routine.

What Kind of Oats Should I Use?

For truly authentic texture, go with rolled oats. They’re heartier and offer that signature chew you expect from hobnobs. Instant oats will turn too soft and lack structure, while steel-cut oats are too coarse and don’t absorb the moisture the same way. If you want a finer crumb, you can pulse your rolled oats slightly in a food processor, but avoid turning them into flour.

Ingredients for the Homemade Chocolate Hobnobs

Homemade hobnobs are built on pantry staples. But each ingredient plays a special role in building that crisp-chewy bite with a sweet finish. Let’s take a look at the essentials you’ll need:

• Unsalted Butter
• Brown Sugar
• Golden Syrup
• Baking Soda
• All-Purpose Flour
• Rolled Oats
• Salt
• Milk or Dark Chocolate

Unsalted Butter is the fat base that gives richness and helps the biscuits crisp up without overwhelming them with salt.

Brown Sugar brings in a deeper caramel flavor that complements the oats beautifully.

Golden Syrup adds the toffee sweetness and moisture that ties everything together.

Baking Soda reacts with the syrup to lift the dough slightly while baking.

All-Purpose Flour gives structure to the cookies while letting the oats shine through.

Rolled Oats are key for texture and taste. Don’t substitute with quick oats unless absolutely necessary.

Salt enhances the other flavors and keeps things from tasting flat.

Milk or Dark Chocolate crowns the cookie with a smooth finish. Choose your favorite.

How To Make the Homemade Chocolate Hobnobs

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Tray

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2: Melt and Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, golden syrup, and brown sugar until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam slightly.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, and salt. Pour the warm wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Scoop out heaping tablespoons of the dough and roll into balls. Flatten gently with your palm onto the baking tray. Leave room for spreading.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. Let cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Melt and Coat with Chocolate

Melt your chocolate of choice using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals. Spoon or spread a generous amount on each cooled hobnob. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or chill briefly in the fridge.

How to Serve and Store These Chocolate Hobnobs

These biscuits are fantastic for tea time, gifting, or keeping in the pantry for those late-night cravings. Once the chocolate has set completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’re in a warm climate, they do well in the fridge too.

This recipe makes about 20 biscuits, perfect for sharing or stashing away for a week of cozy snacking.

What to Serve With Homemade Chocolate Hobnobs?

A Steaming Cup of Tea

English breakfast, Earl Grey, or even a floral chamomile bring out the biscuit’s sweetness.

Fresh Berries and Cream

Pairing with something fruity and light balances the rich oat base and chocolate topping.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Turn your hobnobs into a quick dessert by sandwiching a scoop of ice cream between two.

Coffee or Espresso

The boldness of coffee deepens the flavor of the chocolate and balances the sweetness.

A Spread of Soft Cheeses

Mild brie or mascarpone on the side creates an indulgent sweet-savory experience.

Warmed Milk with Honey

Perfect for a nighttime snack. The mild flavor softens the richness.

Fruit Compote or Jam

Add a spoonful on top for a colorful twist.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If these chocolate hobnobs got you hooked, check out a few more cookie favorites from Janet Dishes:

• Try the Peanut Butter Smores Sandwich Cookies for a nutty, marshmallow-packed bite.
• These Classic French Butter Cookies offer an elegant melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• The Lemon Truffles Recipe hits that citrusy-sweet craving just right.
• You might love Chocolate Smores Cupcakes for something more decadent.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for milk chocolate or dark? Any creative twists?

I love seeing your takes on these biscuits. Let’s swap tips and help each other bake better.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and comfort bakes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find new favorites every day!

Conclusion

There’s something incredibly satisfying about recreating a beloved store-bought treat in your own kitchen. These homemade chocolate hobnobs check all the boxes: easy, nostalgic, delicious, and just customizable enough to make them your own. From weekday pick-me-ups to holiday gift tins, they bring joy in every crunchy, chocolatey bite.

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