When did cookies become popular?

It's difficult to pinpoint an exact date for when cookies became popular, as their history is long and varied. However, we can look at key moments:

Early History:

* Ancient Times: Similar treats existed in ancient civilizations, like biscotti in Italy and the "wafers" mentioned in the Bible.

* Medieval Europe: "Cookies" started appearing in cookbooks in the 14th century, but they were likely more dense and flat than the cookies we know today.

Rise of Popularity:

* 17th Century: Dutch colonists brought "koekjes" (small cakes) to America, which evolved into the cookies we know today.

* 18th and 19th Centuries: The industrial revolution helped make ingredients like sugar and butter more accessible, leading to a wider adoption of cookie baking.

* Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries: Commercial baking and packaged cookies became more common, making cookies a staple snack and treat in American households.

* 1930s and Beyond: The introduction of chocolate chip cookies in 1930 and the development of new flavors and variations further solidified cookies as a beloved treat.

Conclusion:

While cookies have a long history, their popularity truly took off in the 19th and 20th centuries due to factors like industrialization, commercial baking, and the creation of iconic cookie varieties. Cookies continue to be popular today, offering a wide range of flavors, textures, and baking experiences.