Will cookies be the next ‘it’ food?

October 4, 2020 by
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In recent days, my social media newsfeeds have been barraged by two things: reports on which American politician has just tested positive for the coronavirus, and cookies. I prefer the latter for many reasons, and I found it interesting that no other food has dominated Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram in the last several weeks. Part of that, I assume, is the way the various algorithms parse my click history, but I also feel that this might be cookies’ time to shine. I am also bullish on cookies coming off of Biscuit Week of the GBBO.

It’s not just GBBO, however, that is driving the cookie trend. Plenty of cookie books have been published in recent months, and cookies possess several attributes that make them well-suited for current circumstances. Unlike a cake or pie that has to be cut into pieces, cookies can be easily shared without anyone needing to touch them for serving. Cookies store well – especially in the freezer – making them perfect for small households that might struggle to finish an entire tart or cake before it goes off.

Cookies are also not as intimidating to novice bakers as are cakes or pies. I know people who shudder at the thought of making their own pie crust but have no qualms about whipping up a batch of chocolate chip cookies. Cookies require only basic ingredients, and you can easily make egg-free, dairy-free, or gluten-free varieties. For those who want to get creative, cookies offer ample opportunity for playing with flavor, shapes, and textures.

Another attribute in favor of cookies over other baked goods is that they are easier to ship. I imagine that people won’t be traveling or dining in large groups for the upcoming holidays, but they might want to share something with friends or family in lieu of a visit. Why not ship a few dozen cookies to loved ones so everyone can enjoy them during a Zoom Thanksgiving?

For all of these reasons, I think cookies will enjoy renewed popularity through the end of this year and well into 2021. What do you think?

Photo of Crispy iced oatmeal flats from Midwest Made by Shauna Sever

Category: Antipasto

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10 Comments

  • MarciK  on  October 4, 2020

    I just bought two Christmas cookie books yesterday to add to those I already have. I may make something today. These crispy iced oatmeal flats may be it.

  • Foodycat  on  October 4, 2020

    I’ve ordered some coconut for a crack at Prue’s macaroons.

  • CapeCodCook  on  October 4, 2020

    And cookies are fun!! There’s something inherently whimsical and generous about a small piece of baked deliciousness that you can share with others. I hope many new cookie-books are reviewed and praised on EYB!

  • eliza  on  October 4, 2020

    I agree. Cookies are the best. I’ve been making 2 of David Lebovitz’s cookies, cranzac and kitchen sink cookies, both adaptable to ingredients you may or may not have.
    I don’t have many books just on cookies. Does anyone have any especially great cookie books to recommend?

  • bevie19  on  October 4, 2020

    I am, and always will be, a cookie fanatic. Love them more the cakes, pies, custards, etc. Plus you can make a gazillion of them, freeze them, and bake what you need or bake them all. Cookies are forgiving too. Plus the word “cookie” is fun to say! 🙂

  • Rinshin  on  October 4, 2020

    My husband is not a dessert person at all, but will eat cookies when I make them. I think it is because he does not have to pull out and slice or serve himself. Just reach in and grab a cookie.

  • Larkspur  on  October 9, 2020

    My go-to cookie book is King Arthur Flour’s Cookie Companion. Cookies never go “out” in my household.

  • laureljean  on  October 9, 2020

    I’ve been waiting for cookies to become an “it” food!

  • Pennyc07  on  October 10, 2020

    Two more cookie books I have and enjoy are Sarah Kieffer’s 100 Cookies and The Cookie Collection from Bake from Scratch.

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