Cookie

A variety of cookies, showcasing different ingredients and styles.

A cookie is a baked or cooked food that is typically small, flat, and sweet. It usually contains flour, sugar, and some type of oil or fat. It may include other ingredients such as raisins, oats, chocolate chips, nuts, etc.

History

The origin of the cookie is believed to date back to 7th century AD Persia, one of the first countries to cultivate sugar. With the Muslim conquests, especially in Spain, the cookie was spread to Europe. By the 14th century, they were common in all levels of society, throughout Europe, from royal cuisine to street vendors.

Types

Cookies are broadly classified into categories, based on the method of preparation, ingredients, or texture:

• Drop cookies are made from a relatively soft dough that is dropped by spoonfuls onto the baking sheet.
• Bar cookies consist of batter or other ingredients that are poured or pressed into a pan and cut into cookie-sized pieces after baking.
• Molded cookies are made from a stiffer dough that is molded into shapes before baking.
• Refrigerator cookies are made from a stiff dough that is refrigerated to become even stiffer. The dough is then typically formed into cylinders which are sliced into cookies before baking.
• Sandwich cookies involve two cookies with a filling such as cream, jam, or chocolate spread between them.

Cultural significance

Cookies are often associated with important festivals and holidays, such as Christmas cookies during the Christmas season, or using cookies in the shape of Easter eggs during Easter. They are also used as a form of dessert or a snack.

Nutritional information

Cookies can vary widely in nutrition. While generally high in carbohydrates, specifically sugar, they can also contain significant amounts of fat. Some types of cookies, such as those made with oatmeal, raisins, or nuts, may provide additional nutrients.

In popular culture

Cookies have a strong presence in popular culture, often symbolizing comfort, warmth, and home. They are frequently mentioned in books, movies, and television shows.

See also

• Biscuit
• Cookie dough
• List of cookies
• Cookie cutter