Cookies are a beloved sweet treat that brings joy to people of all ages. Whether you enjoy them with a glass of milk, dunk them in your coffee, or savor them on their own, cookies are a versatile and delicious dessert.
But did you know that there’s more to cookies than just their mouthwatering taste? In this article, we’re going to explore 20 fun facts about cookies that will take your appreciation for these delectable treats to a whole new level. From their fascinating history to unique variations around the world, there’s plenty to uncover about the world of cookies.
So sit back, grab a cookie (or two), and let’s dive into the wonderful world of cookies!
1. Ancient Origins
Cookies have been enjoyed for centuries, with evidence of their existence dating back to the 7th century in Persia. They were initially used as a way to test oven temperatures before evolving into the sweet treats we know today.
2. The Accidental Invention of Chocolate Chip Cookies
Apparently, Wakefield invented the cookies while trying to improve on a butterscotch nut cookie recipe with an all-chocolate dough. The chocolate she used didn't fully melt in the dough, though, resulting in a cookie with chocolate bits. Some people are dubious of the story, however, saying that Ruth Wakefield was too much of a perfectionist to overlook such an important detail.
3. The First Cookie in Space
In 2019, astronauts aboard the International Space Station baked cookies in space for the first time using a specially designed oven. The experiment tested baking times and temperatures in microgravity.
4. National Cookie Day
In the United States, December 4th is celebrated as National Cookie Day — a perfect excuse to indulge in your favorite cookie variety!
5. The World's Largest Cookie
The world’s largest cookie weighed over 40,000 pounds and was baked by the Immaculate Baking Company in 2003. It measured 102 feet in diameter.
6. Cookie Monster's Favorite?
Cookie Monster from Sesame Street is famous for his love of cookies, especially chocolate chip cookies. However, most of the cookies he eats on the show are actually painted rice cakes!
7. A Worldwide Favorite
Different countries have their own takes on cookies: Italy has biscotti, France enjoys madeleines, and Germany is known for its spice-filled lebkuchen.
8. Fortune Cookies Aren’t Chinese
Though commonly associated with Chinese cuisine in the U.S., fortune cookies actually originated in California and are rarely found in China.
9. Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scouts began selling homemade cookies as a fundraiser in 1917. Today, their cookie sales generate nearly $800 million annually.
10. Oreo: The Best-Selling Cookie
The Oreo cookie, first introduced in 1912, is the best-selling cookie in the world. It’s sold in over 100 countries and has countless flavors.
11. Cookie Cutters Were Once Fancy Tools
In the 1700s, cookie cutters were elaborately carved from wood or made from hand-shaped tin, often depicting animals or flowers.
12. Cookies and Christmas
Leaving cookies out for Santa became popular during the Great Depression as a way to teach children the value of giving.
13. The Cookie Jar Origin
The cookie jar was invented in the United Kingdom in the 18th century and became a staple in American homes in the 1930s.
14. The Oldest Cookie Recipe
One of the oldest written cookie recipes dates back to the 9th century and includes instructions for making a simple spiced biscuit.
15. Cookie Dough Ice Cream
Ben & Jerry’s introduced chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream in 1991, and it quickly became one of their top-selling flavors.
16. Cookies vs. Biscuits
In the UK, what Americans call cookies are often called biscuits, while in the US, biscuits are a type of soft bread.
17. Record Cookie Consumption
The average American eats about 300 cookies a year — more than any other country!
18. Unique Cookie Flavors
From lavender and bacon to chili chocolate, cookies come in an endless variety of flavors to suit all kinds of taste buds.
19. Cookie-Centric Holidays Around the World
Many countries celebrate with cookies during holidays, such as Germany's Christmas lebkuchen or Mexico’s Day of the Dead pan de muerto.
20. Cookies Go Digital
In tech terms, “cookies” also refer to small pieces of data stored by web browsers — though far less tasty, they help improve user experience online.