So let me share my story: It started in 1984, when Helge Rubinstein, inspired by her son Ben, created what I consider the best thing since sliced bread- Bens Cookies! This journey began at a little market stall in none other than Oxford's Covered market. From there, it's been an evolutionary journey for this humble cookie stand. The little secret at the heart of their success? They use chocolate chunks instead of chips - and boy, does it make a huge difference in taste!
If you're trying to satiate your curiosity, head straight to their website https://www.benscookies.com/ Trust me, it's a cookie filled adventure!
Where is this cookie paradise located, you ask?
From its humble beginnings in Oxford, Bens Cookies has spread its delicious aroma across the globe. Most of the stores scatter across the UK, in cities like Bath, Bristol, Cambridge, Edinburgh, London, Oxford, and Reading. They've even got a global footprint in the Middle East, with stores sprouting up in the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. The East Asian market has warmly embraced Bens Cookies with stores in South Korea, Japan, Bangkok, and Manila. They also have a few promising ventures in the incredible USA, with a store located in the picturesque Grapevine, Texas.
What’s their secret to making irresistible cookies?
The Bens Cookies team prides itself on serving not just any cookie- but absolute palate temptations! They sources the best ingredients, infusing chunks of scrumptious chocolate, unsalted butter, and fresh eggs. Believe me when I say this makes all the difference.
Every day, they freshly bake each cookie, crafted from hearth prepared doughs. They prepare the cookie dough in their central kitchen just outside of Oxford and transport it to the different stores, where it's baked throughout the day. The love and effort they put into making their cookies are so much that you cannot resist but come back again and again for their delights.
So, how’s their flavour game?
Let me put it straight out there- if chocolate cookies are your companions, Bens Cookies is your paradise. From Double Chocolate Chunk, Triple Chocolate Chunk, White Chocolate Chunk, Milk Chocolate Chunk to Dark Chocolate Chunk, it's a chocolate fiesta calling your name!
Hang on, it doesn't stop here. Their More Than Chocolate range offers signature chocolate chips with added flavours. I tried their Dark Chocolate & Ginger, and White Chocolate and Cranberry, they literally burst with delicious flavours!
But worry not if you're not a chocolate fan. They have got you covered with flavoursome Ginger Ginger Cookie and Peanut Butter cookie, they totally won my heart.
Will you find the stores open?
If you're planning a cookie treat, their stores are usually open between the customer-friendly hours of 10 am and 7 pm, 7 days a week. But, better to check with your local store or their website for local opening hours.
Does Bens Cookies deliver?
Are you a couch potato? Me too! And that’s why I love that Bens Cookies offers delivery services! A warm batch of freshly baked cookies delivered to your doorstep, imagine that!
I am vegetarian, do they have any options for me?
Yes, absolutely! All their cookies are perfect for vegetarians as they do not contain meat. So just feast on! Check their website for more nutritional information.
How about for us vegans?
Well, most of their cookies do contain egg and milk. But there is good news! They do have four amazing vegan cookies where the milk and eggs have been replaced! But do remember that the company advises not suitable for those who are allergic to milk and eggs since they use these ingredients in their kitchen.
Stay tuned with their website or social media channels for new vegan options that they are working on!
And the gluten issue?
Unfortunately, all their cookies do contain gluten from wheat flour. So if you’re gluten intolerant, Bens Cookies might not be your safest choice.
I want them at home for a late-night bite, can I?
Go ahead, order online and have them delivered directly to your home, anywhere in the UK. They even offer gift tins for special occasions- a complete cookie bonanza!
And if you can't consume them within 4 days, there's a freezing option. But remember not to freeze them for more than three months!
Are they Halal?
Yes, they are. Apart from the Rum & Raisin cookie which contains alcohol, all other cookies are halal.
Can I pay in cash?
With the currently on-going Covid-19 situation, they have opted for a cashless mode of payment. So, make sure to carry your cards or have your contactless payment methods ready with you when you visit the stores.
Pros:
- Wide variety of flavours
- Delicious freshly baked goods
- Worldwide locations
- Vegan options
- Home delivery option
Cons:
- All cookies contain gluten
- Few vegan options
- No cash payments allowed