National Cookie Cutter Day
Transform your cookies with fun shapes and designs. Cookie cutters are a must-have tool for any baking enthusiast.
Becoming popular in the 16th century, when the gingerbread man made its way into the English court and then moved through to common people, cookie cutters have evolved over time into different shapes and sizes.
And National Cookie Cutter Day comes around each year to remind people how valuable cookie cutters can be to their lives!
History of National Cookie Cutter Day
Even before Queen Elizabeth I had gingerbread made into men, the Germans of the 1500s were baking small cakes into molds and designs, some of which were very intricate.
By the time the 1800s came around, the cookie cutters were made from tin by American tinsmiths. In fact, the first patent for a cookie cutter in the United States was granted to Alexander P. Ashbourne in 1875.
National Cookie Cutter Week was the grandfather of National Cookie Cutter Day, beginning its first celebrations in the mid-1990s when the week was founded by Paula Mullins. Several decades later, in 2019, National Cookie Cutter Day was established, typically celebrated on the first day of Cookie Cutter Week.
Celebrated at the beginning of December, this National Cookie Cutter Day is the perfect time for those people who are getting ready to make cookies for Christmas, Hanukkah, or various other winter holidays.
So get those cookie cutters ready, whip up a batch of cookie dough, and get ready to celebrate!
How to Celebrate National Cookie Cutter Day
Enjoy National Cookie Cutter Day in a variety of ways – all of which can be delicious as well as loads of fun:
Make Cut-Out Cookies
Cookie dough that is used to make cutout cookies is a special kind of dough that is pliable enough to roll out but strong enough to hold the shape of the cookie.
Typically this type of dough needs to be kept cold in the refrigerator in order for the cookies to keep their shape once they are cut out.
In many places, pre-packaged refrigerated cookie dough can be found in the grocery store, making it super easy to celebrate National Cookie Cutter Day.
But those who want to make their cookie dough from scratch can do so with ingredients like sugar, flour, eggs, butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, baking powder and salt.
Get Some New Cookie Cutters
One delightful way to enjoy National Cookie Cutter Day is to head out to a local store that sells kitchen goods (or, perhaps Christmas holiday supplies) and add to that collection of cookie cutters.
For those who don’t have a collection of cookie cutters yet, perhaps it’s time to start one!
Some of the most popular cookie cutter brands include Wilton Brand, Williams Sonoma, Farberware, or Ann Clark. Choose classic shapes and styles like hearts, stars, circles or snowflakes, or get a bit more creative and try some special sets like unique dog breeds or favorite cats.
Teach Kids Using Cookie Cutters
Provide educational fun for young kids by using cookie cutters in the shapes of letters and numbers. Older kids can use the opportunity to have a lesson in arts, crafts and even math.
The options are virtually endless when it comes to celebrating National Cookie Cutter Day!
National Cookie Cutter Day FAQs
How did cookie cutters evolve from ancient times to the present?
Cookie cutters trace back to ancient Egypt, where bakers used wooden molds to shape cakes.
By the 16th century, Germans crafted intricate designs using wooden molds. In the 1800s, American tinsmiths began producing tin cookie cutters, making them more accessible.
Today, 3D printing technology allows for personalized and intricate designs, showcasing the evolution of cookie cutters over time.Â
What are some unique cookie-cutter traditions around the world?
In Sweden, bakers use rosette irons to create delicate, lacy cookies called “struvor.”
In India, “achappam” are flower-shaped cookies made using intricately designed irons, especially during festivals. These traditions highlight the cultural significance of cookie cutters in various regions.Â
Are there any myths or misconceptions about cookie cutters?
A common misconception is that cookie cutters are solely for baking.
In reality, they serve multiple purposes, such as shaping sandwiches, crafting ornaments, and even molding candles, demonstrating their versatility beyond the kitchen.Â
How have cookie-cutter designs reflected societal changes over time?
Early cookie cutters featured religious symbols. As societies became more secular, designs expanded to include animals, vehicles, and pop culture icons, mirroring societal shifts and interests.Â
What are some unusual materials used to make cookie cutters?
While metal and plastic are common, some artisans craft cookie cutters from wood, ceramic, or even silicone. These materials offer unique aesthetics and functionalities, catering to diverse baking needs.Â
How do different cultures incorporate cookie cutters into their culinary traditions?
In Greece, “kourabiedes” are almond cookies shaped using cutters, especially during Christmas.
In Mexico, “buñuelos de viento” are fritters made with flower-shaped irons, highlighting the global culinary use of cookie cutters.Â
What role did cookie cutters play in historical celebrations?
During the Victorian era, decorated cookies shaped with cutters adorned Christmas trees.
This practice added a festive touch and showcased the artistry of bakers during holiday celebrations.Â
Are there any notable cookie-cutter collections or museums?
The National Cookie Cutter Historical Museum in Joplin, Missouri, houses an extensive collection of cookie cutters, preserving their history and showcasing their evolution over time.Â
How have technological advancements influenced cookie-cutter designs?
The advent of 3D printing has revolutionized cookie cutter designs, allowing for intricate, personalized shapes that were previously difficult to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods.Â
What are some creative non-culinary uses for cookie cutters?
Beyond baking, people use cookie cutters to craft ornaments, create unique candle molds, and even design custom stamps for arts and crafts, showcasing their versatility.Â
Need some inspiration?
Check out these videos for some extra inspiration in getting involved!
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