History of Cookies
Cookies, those delightful bite-sized treats that have become a universal symbol of comfort and joy, have a fascinating history that spans centuries. From humble beginnings to becoming an integral part of our culinary culture, the journey of cookies is a tale as sweet as the confections themselves. The story of cookies begins in Persia during the 7th century AD. It is said that early Persians created a simple, unleavened flatbread sweetened with honey, fruit juice, and nuts. These early baked goods resembled the cookies we know today in form but were a far cry from the diverse array of flavors and textures we enjoy in modern times.
As trade routes expanded, so did the exchange of culinary traditions. By the 16th century, European bakers were incorporating exotic spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, into their recipes. These spiced biscuits closely resembled what we now recognize as cookies. They were often molded into intricate shapes and given as gifts during special occasions. The word "cookie" is derived from the Dutch word "koekie," meaning little cake. Dutch settlers brought their baking traditions, including various cookie recipes, to America in the 17th century. The popular Dutch "koejke" evolved into the New World's sweet delights, adapting to local ingredients and tastes.
During the American Revolution, rationing of food supplies led to the creation of what we now know as the chocolate chip cookie. Ruth Graves Wakefield, owner of the Toll House Inn, Massachusetts, substituted chocolate chunks for baker's chocolate in her butter cookie recipe. The result was the first-ever chocolate chip cookie, which later became a household favorite. The 21st century has seen a cookie revolution, with bakers experimenting with flavors, textures, and ingredients. From gourmet artisanal cookies to vegan and gluten-free options, the cookie landscape has expanded to cater to diverse dietary preferences. Social media platforms have also played a significant role in the cookie renaissance, with viral trends and aesthetically pleasing cookie creations capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of enthusiasts worldwide.
As we savor the delightful crunch or chewiness of a cookie today, it's worth taking a moment to appreciate the rich history behind these delectable treats. From their modest origins in Persia to becoming a global phenomenon, cookies have truly stood the test of time, evolving and adapting to the ever-changing tastes and preferences of people around the world. So, the next time you indulge in a freshly baked cookie, remember that you are partaking in a delicious tradition that spans centuries.
Construction Frosting Recipe
Begin by ensuring 6 ounces of fresh egg whites reach room temperature (approximately 6 egg whites). Using an electric beater with a wire whip attachment, beat the egg whites for about a minute until they turn slightly frothy.
Combine 2 pounds of confectioners' sugar with 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar. Gradually add this sugar mixture to the bowl of egg whites, beating at a slow speed. Once fully combined, increase the mixer's speed to high and continue beating for 10 minutes. The frosting will become stiff and firm.
After these ten minutes, the frosting is ready to use directly from the mixer. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for a few hours. If assembling a gingerbread house, it's optimal to use the frosting within 10 hours for best results.
How It All Began
Shot by John BesslerMy journey with gingerbread began in the most expected way - crafting alongside my mom and sisters during festive holidays. With a family of skilled bakers, especially my mom and grandmother, I was inspired to channel my creativity. While my college path initially aimed at architecture, veering toward a liberal arts degree, the allure of building homes remained strong.
Gingerbread houses soon became my canvas to blend architectural skills with playfulness. This sweet pursuit evolved into a cherished family tradition, a bonding experience that yielded incredible, edible creations. There's something enchanting about gingerbread houses, an essence of magic and hope. Crafting them sparks joy and creativity, leaving a cheerful mark on everyone involved.
The ability to share this joy by enabling others to create heartfelt gifts has been immensely gratifying. It's truly a wonderful feeling to offer a token made with love. Gingerbread houses, to me, symbolize not just creativity but also the warmth of shared moments—a sentiment that's unparalleled.
History of Gingerbread
Gingerbread stands as an iconic symbol of the holiday season, encompassing various forms from edible houses to candy-studded gingerbread figures and spiced loaves resembling cake-like bread. Interestingly, in Medieval England, "gingerbread" referred simply to "preserved ginger" and only evolved into the desserts we know today by the 15th century. Presently, the term broadly encompasses any sweet treat amalgamating ginger with honey, treacle, or molasses.
The origins of ginger root trace back to ancient China, initially cultivated for medicinal purposes. Its journey to Europe commenced through the Silk Road. During the Middle Ages, it gained popularity as a spice, known for masking the taste of preserved meats. Legend even credits Henry VIII for using a ginger concoction in an attempt to build immunity against the plague. To this day, ginger remains a favored remedy for nausea and stomach ailments. In Sanskrit, it was termed "srigavera," translating to "root shaped like a horn," a reference to ginger's peculiar appearance.
Rhonda Massingham Hart's book, "Making Gingerbread Houses," notes the earliest recorded gingerbread recipe dating back to 2400 BC in Greece. Chinese recipes emerged in the 10th century, and by the late Middle Ages, Europeans had developed their own versions. These hard cookies, often adorned with gold leaf and shaped as animals or royalty figures, became a staple at Medieval fairs across England, France, Holland, and Germany. Queen Elizabeth I popularized the idea of decorating cookies to resemble visiting dignitaries at her court. Over time, these festivals became known as "Gingerbread Fairs," featuring gingerbread cookies termed 'fairings,' varying in shapes from flowers in spring to birds in fall. Elaborately decorated gingerbread became synonymous with elegance in England. The use of gold leaf in decorating gingerbread coined the expression "to take the gilt off of gingerbread." Additionally, the ornate, carved white architectural details found on colonial American seaside homes are sometimes referred to as "gingerbread work."
The concept of gingerbread houses originated in 16th-century Germany. These intricate houses, constructed with cookie walls and embellished with foil and gold leaf, became associated with Christmas traditions. Their popularity soared after the Brothers Grimm penned the story of Hansel and Gretel, where the protagonists stumble upon a house made entirely of treats deep in the forest. Whether the tale inspired gingerbread houses or vice versa remains unclear.
Recently, a new world record for the largest gingerbread house was achieved at Traditions Golf Club in Bryan, Texas, spanning nearly 40,000 cubic feet. This colossal creation required a building permit and utilized 4,000 gingerbread bricks. To conceptualize the scale, the recipe for a house of this size would demand 1,800 pounds of butter and 1,080 ounces of ground ginger—truly resembling a gingerbread resort!
Gingerbread made its way to the New World through English colonists, occasionally used to influence Virginia voters to favor one candidate over another. The first American cookbook, "American Cookery" by Amelia Simmons, featured recipes for three types of gingerbread, including the soft variety baked in loaves.
Exploring the legacy of gingerbread would be incomplete without trying a few cookies myself. While there are various tempting varieties, I chose the traditional path of crafting gingerbread men. This adapted recipe, derived from the now out-of-print New York Times Heritage Cookbook, yields robust cookies with a satisfying crunch—ideal for constructing gingerbread house walls if you're daring enough to skip the kit! I've enhanced the recipe with a touch more ginger for added flavor. For a subtle twist, consider incorporating a splash of rosewater into the dough as a nod to Amelia Simmons! These gingerbread men bake up smooth and flat, providing the perfect canvas for decorating with royal icing, candies, sugar pearls, and sprinkles.