Sweet Treat Terminology: The Evolution of "Cakes" to "Keks"
A Linguistic Journey Through Time
Hermann Bahlsen's Legacy
In the annals of confectionery history, the humble cookie holds a special place. It has been a beloved snack for generations, enjoyed by people of all ages and cultures. But what many may not know is the fascinating journey that led to its modern-day name.
Once upon a time, in the late 19th century, the German entrepreneur Hermann Bahlsen had a vision. He wanted to create a new type of sweet treat that was both delicious and convenient. With his ingenuity, he developed a recipe for a small, flat, and round biscuit that he named "Keks." The name was a clever play on the English word "cakes," paying homage to the inspiration behind his creation.
Bahlsen's Keks quickly gained popularity in Germany, and its unique name soon became synonymous with the delectable snack. Over time, the term "Keks" crossed language barriers and became widely used in other European countries. Today, it is the standard name for cookies in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, among others.
Decades later, the term "cookie" found its way across the Atlantic to the United States. It is believed that American soldiers stationed in Europe during World War II brought back a taste for these sweet treats and introduced them to their hometowns. The name "cookie" stuck, and it became the familiar term for these beloved snacks in the United States and beyond.
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