What is a Shrewsbury biscuit?

The Shrewsbury biscuit is a traditional English biscuit with a history as rich as its buttery flavour. Originating from the historic town of Shrewsbury in Shropshire, this classic treat has been enjoyed for centuries. At Farmfetch, we are proud to offer artisan versions of the fruit Shrewsbury biscuit from the likes of Sawley Kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a taste of British heritage made with quality ingredients.

A brief history of the Shrewsbury biscuit

The Shrewsbury biscuit dates back to the 16th century, with the first known recipe recorded in the 17th century by a local baker named Mr. Palin. The biscuit was traditionally made with sugar, butter, flour, and lemon zest, creating a crumbly, lightly sweetened treat with a subtle citrus flavour. Over time, variations of the recipe have been developed, with some including dried fruits, spices, or even nuts, giving the biscuit added texture and flavour.

These biscuits became especially popular during the Georgian era and were often served with tea or as part of elaborate banquets. Today, the Shrewsbury biscuit remains a favourite across the UK, loved for its simple yet delicious flavour and satisfying crunch.

How to best enjoy Shrewsbury biscuits

At Farmfetch, we offer the fruit Shrewsbury biscuit, which adds a delightful twist to the traditional recipe by incorporating dried fruits. The fruity bursts pair beautifully with the buttery, crumbly texture of the biscuit, making it an ideal accompaniment to your afternoon tea.

Here are a few ways to enjoy this classic treat:

With a cup of tea: The classic pairing of Shrewsbury biscuits and tea is hard to beat. The subtle sweetness and crumbly texture of the biscuit are the perfect complement to a strong English breakfast tea or a fragrant Earl Grey.

As a dessert accompaniment: Pair these biscuits with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of clotted cream for a simple yet indulgent dessert.

On a cheese board: For a savoury twist, serve fruit Shrewsbury biscuits with a selection of cheeses. The fruity notes from the dried fruit add a lovely contrast to the richness of blue cheese or a sharp cheddar.

A taste of tradition with a modern twist

The Shrewsbury biscuit is a timeless British classic, and at Farmfetch, we’re proud to offer an artisan version from Sawley Kitchen that stays true to the original recipe while adding the delicious complexity of dried fruits.

Explore our full range of sweet treats here!