National Cookie Day celebrates one of the world’s most beloved sweet treats – cookies, those delightful baked treats that come in countless varieties, from classic chocolate chip to elaborate decorated confections.
Quick Facts
- When is it: December 4th annually
- Tagged as: Food Holiday
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalCookieDay
- When was it founded: 1987
- Who founded it: Matt Nader of the Blue Chip Cookie Company
History
The word “cookie” comes from the Dutch word “koekie,” meaning “little cake.” Cookies originated in Persia during the 7th century when sugar became widely available. They spread to Europe through Spain and became common across all social classes by the 14th century. When Europeans migrated to America, they brought their cookie recipes, leading to the development of uniquely American varieties like the chocolate chip cookie.
Timeline
- 7th Century: First cookies appear in Persia
- 14th Century: Cookies become popular throughout Europe
- 1902: Animal crackers become first mass-produced cookies in America
- 1987: National Cookie Day established
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | December | 4 | Thursday |
| 2026 | December | 4 | Friday |
| 2027 | December | 4 | Saturday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by baking cookies at home, sharing them with friends and family, participating in cookie exchanges, or visiting local bakeries for special deals and promotions.
Fun Facts About Cookies
- Americans consume over 2 billion cookies annually
- The average American eats 35,000 cookies in their lifetime
- Cookie Monster’s cookies are actually painted rice cakes
- Half of all homemade cookies are chocolate chip
- Americans spend $550 million on Oreos each year
Quiz
- Where were cookies first invented?
- What was the first mass-produced cookie in America?
- How many cookies does the average American eat in their lifetime?
-(Answers: Persia, Animal Crackers, 35,000)
FAQs
Why mix dry and wet ingredients separately?
To distribute ingredients evenly and prevent overmixing
Should I use butter or margarine?
Real butter is best for better flavor and texture
Related Cookie Days
- National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day
- National Homemade Cookies Day
- National Oreo Cookie Day
- National Peanut Butter Cookie Day
- National Sugar Cookie Day
- National Pecan Cookie Day