National Walker’s Shortbread Day is observed on January 6 every year. The day is celebrated to appreciate the delectable shortbread in all its glory! This buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat is Scotland’s finest gift to the world. Made without leavening components such as baking soda or powder, its unique dense and rustic texture sets it apart from other desserts. As a reminder of the holiday spirit, Walker’s encourages you to begin the new year on a sweet note by enjoying this Scottish favourite at home.
History of National Walker’s Shortbread Day
Shortbread originated in Scotland in the 12th century. It evolved through cultural exchanges with French pastry chefs. The traditional recipe is made of a simple combination of butter and flour. The high butter content makes the dough crumbly, calling it “shortbread.”
It was not until the intervention of Mary, Queen of Scots, popularized shortbread that this crumbly treat gained national recognition. Similarly, in the 16th century, she refined the recipe and shaped the shortbread into triangles to match them with her preferred petticoat tails.
Later, the 17th-century shortbread became a sweet biscuit after introducing sugar to the United Kingdom. The shortbread is often enjoyed with evening tea. Its cultural significance is even noted in William Shakespeare’s 17th-century play, “The Merry Wives of Windsor.”
Moreover, Joseph Walker founded Walker’s company in 1898 and introduced Walker’s Shortbread by serving a true Scottish traditional treat. In the present time, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren carry on the fine baking tradition that he began in the Highlands of Scotland 125 years ago.
Their shortbread is still made the same way by using just four ingredients: pure creamery butter, flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Walker’s Shortbread remains proud of being a sustainable business, working to reduce plastic use and looks forward to continuing efforts in other areas across the business.
Furthermore, Among Walker’s product range, there is the best-known and most iconic product Shortbread Finger. The product is known for its crunchy yet crumbly texture and delicious all-butter taste. The fun fact is that Walker’s Finger’s always have 13 holes baker’s dozen—to allow steam to escape during baking.
Walker’s range of products comes in its distinctive tartan packaging, which reflects their Scottish heritage inside and out. This iconic design is recognized globally as a symbol of excellence and a true Scottish classic.
Timeline of National Walker’s Shortbread Day
| 1898-1930 (Walker’s Origins) | Twenty-one-year-old Joseph Walker opens the doors of his bakery with a loan of £50 and the ambition to bake ‘The World’s Finest Shortbread’. With success, Joseph expands to deliver his shortbread to more and more people. |
| 1930-1950 (Walker’s Family and Business Expands) | The two sons from Joseph’s family, James and Joseph, joined the company to bring fresh ideas. With them comes the introduction to cakes, confectionery and the company’s first delivery van. |
| 1950-1990 (Growing Success) | By the 1970s, Walker’s was exporting to over 60 countries without altering the winning recipe. By 1975, Walker’s had outgrown their extended bakery and moved to a custom-built factory. Many people who worked for Walker’s during this time are still with the company. |
| 1990 – 2023 (To the next 125 Years!) | Walker’s has picked up numerous international accolades, including five gold Mondiale medals, the Food from Britain Innovation Award, and the Queen’s Award for Export Achievement. Here’s to the next 125 years of baking ‘The World’s Finest Shortbread’ and bringing “Scotland at its Finest” to the rest of the world to enjoy! |
5 Interesting Facts About Walker’s Shortbread
- Made with Only 4 Ingredients: Walker’s Shortbread is made with just four ingredients such as butter, flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- 125 Years of Tradition: Walker’s shortbread has been using the same all-butter recipe for 125 years in Scotland, and it’s still as delicious as ever!
- Family-Owned Business: Walker’s Shortbread remains family-owned and run by the Walker family since it was founded in the year 1898.
- Made with Natural Ingredients: All of Walker’s products are free from artificial flavours and colours, using real butter and no hydrogenated vegetable oils.
- Gluten-Free Options: Everyone can enjoy their delicious treats as Walker’s offers a variety of gluten-free options such as chocolate chip shortbread and gluten-free ginger and lemon shortbread.
Conclusion
National Walker’s Shortbread Day is celebrated on January 6 every year. The day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate Scotland’s cherished culinary contribution, Walker’s Shortbread. This delight has become a symbol of Scottish tradition with its rich history dating back to the 12th century. Its evolution into a beloved treat under the watchful eye of Mary, Queen of Scots.
Joseph Waker’s “The World’s Finest Shortbread” has been operating for 125 years with his descendants continuing to uphold the time-honoured recipe. You can enjoy the classic Shortbread Fingers or explore the range of gluten-free options on National Walker’s Shortbread Day. The day offers you to savour a piece of Scottish heritage and start the new year on a sweet note.
Frequently Ask Question
How is National Shortbread Day celebrated?
People celebrate National Shortbread Day by baking or enjoying shortbread cookies. Some may share recipes, host cookie-baking parties, or simply indulge in their favourite shortbread varieties.
Why is January 6 chosen for National Shortbread Day?
People choose January 6 to celebrate the cookie’s popularity and enjoy it during the winter season. Even though the date does not have a specific historical significance related to shortbread.
Are there any special events or promotions for National Shortbread Day?
Some bakeries and stores may offer special discounts or promotions on shortbread cookies. Additionally, there might be online recipes and baking tips shared by food bloggers and chefs.
Can I make my shortbread?
Of course! you can make shortbread at home is pretty easy. You can find several recipes on the internet that guide you through the process of creating this delicious treat from scratch.
Are there variations of shortbread?
Yes, there are various types of shortbread, including those with added ingredients such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. Traditional shortbread recipes usually include butter, sugar, and flour.
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