When it comes to chocolate biscuits, individuals often have their preferred choice. Whether it is the iconic Penguin with its famous joke on the wrapper, or the increasingly popular Australian Tim Tams, the competition is fierce.
The Australians have made an impact with their Tim Tams, which bear a strong resemblance to the beloved Penguins. Although Tim Tams have been available in the UK for a few years, they have recently gained mainstream attention with availability in Waitrose and Ocado. Despite Australian fans swearing by their biscuits, the question remains: are they truly worth the additional cost of being 50% more expensive than Penguins?
It is crucial to acknowledge that higher pricing does not always equate to superior quality when it comes to food. However, the allure of the Australian connection and the opportunity to casually mention one’s time in the Outback adds to the appeal of Tim Tams.
In addition to Tim Tams and Penguins, other options include Clubs, Rocky, and Tunnocks caramel wafers. However, the appeal of Tim Tams and Penguins lies in their sandwich structure, essentially Bourbon creams covered in chocolate, with Tim Tams offering a notably strong vanilla/caramel flavour. While these biscuits may not be the healthiest, they remain a popular choice for a quick snack.
Supermarket own-label versions such as Morrisons’ Toucans, Aldi’s Seals, and Lidl’s Arctic bars have also entered the market. The Australian bars have a more sophisticated branding and include the added bonus of the Tim Tam Slam – a biscuit-dunking technique that creates a warm, squidgy, and gooey treat.
During a taste test conducted by experts, various chocolate-covered biscuit bars were evaluated. Aldi’s Belmont Biscuits Milk Chocolate Seal Bars were described as blandly sweet, while Morrisons’ Toucans and Lidl’s Arctic Bars offered a slightly different flavour profile. Both Tim Tams and Penguins received positive feedback as the main contenders. However, Aldi’s Specially Selected Milk Chocolate Just Divine emerged as the winner, with its rich taste and the use of real Belgian chocolate.
Ultimately, whether one’s allegiance lies with Tim Tams or Penguins, the battle of the biscuits comes down to personal preference. As long as the chosen chocolate biscuit brings joy with every bite, it is a suitable choice.