National Brownies Day

A close-up of a freshly baked brownie, with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a dusting of powdered sugar, set against a cozy kitchen backdrop.. — National brownies day illustration

Welcome to National Brownies Day, a day dedicated to celebrating these gooey, chocolatey squares of deliciousness! Whether you're a fan of fudgy brownies or prefer them with a bit of a cakey texture, this is the perfect day to indulge in these sweet treats. So grab your apron and get ready to bake up some brownie magic!

When is Brownies Day?

It's national brownies day on the 8th December.

The Internet History of National Brownies Day

Did you know that National Brownies Day dates back to December 8, 2015? It was on this day that the internet exploded with mentions of these beloved desserts. Social media platforms were flooded with posts showcasing brownie recipes, mouthwatering photos, and heartwarming stories of people's love for brownies.

This online buzz led to an annual celebration of National Brownies Day, where people from all over the world come together to celebrate the joy that these little squares of heaven bring.

Throughout the years, food bloggers, baking enthusiasts, and even professional chefs have embraced National Brownies Day by sharing their most delectable brownie creations. From traditional chocolate fudge brownies to unique flavor combinations like salted caramel or peanut butter swirl, there's no shortage of brownie inspiration to be found online.

Why We Love Brownies

What makes brownies so irresistibly delicious? Is it the rich chocolate flavor? The gooey center? The crispy edges? Perhaps it's the versatility of this dessert, allowing for endless variations and personal touches.

Some people prefer their brownies warm and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, while others enjoy them straight out of the fridge. Some prefer walnuts or pecans in their brownies for added texture, while others opt for a simple, smooth chocolate experience.

No matter how you enjoy them, brownies have a magical ability to bring joy to any occasion. They're perfect for birthdays, potlucks, movie nights, or just as a sweet pick-me-up when you're in need of a little indulgence.

History behind the term 'Brownies'

1896

The Birth of Brownies

The term 'brownies' originated in 1896 when it was first mentioned in Palmer Cox's book 'The Brownies: Their Book'. 'The Brownies' were a group of fictional characters resembling mythical elves or imps. Cox described them as mischievous but good-hearted creatures who loved to bake and eat delicious treats. This book popularized the term 'brownies' and associated it with small, chocolatey baked goods.

1904

The First Published Brownie Recipe

In 1904, the first published recipe for 'brownies' appeared in the Boston Cooking School Cookbook by Fannie Merritt Farmer. Farmer's recipe introduced the concept of brownies as a dense and fudgy chocolate dessert, similar to what we enjoy today. The recipe gained significant popularity, and many variations emerged, including the addition of nuts, frosting, or other ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture.

1917

Brownies Go Mainstream

During World War I, brownies gained even more popularity as they were sent to soldiers overseas due to their long shelf life. These sweet and portable treats provided soldiers with a taste of home and a morale boost during challenging times. As a result, the term 'brownies' became widely recognized and associated with these delicious chocolate squares.

1929

The First Brownie Mix

In 1929, the convenience of baking brownies at home increased with the introduction of the first brownie mix by the company that would later become General Mills. This innovation allowed people to easily prepare brownies by simply adding water or milk to the mix, making them more accessible to a broader audience. The brownie mix quickly became a staple in kitchens across America.

1981

National Brownie Day

In 1981, National Brownie Day was officially established in the United States to celebrate this beloved dessert. On December 8th each year, people indulge in various types of brownies, including classic chocolate, blondies, and creative variations like mint, peanut butter, or caramel. National Brownie Day honors the rich history and deliciousness of brownies, giving them a well-deserved spotlight in the culinary world.