For decades, American children left out cookies and milk for Santa on Christmas Eve, but few people know how and when the holiday tradition began.
In a special Christmas episode of Fox Nation’s “At Home With Paula Deen”, the famous chef reveals the fascinating story behind the sweet tradition and how it inspired countries around the world in a new episode of “Cookie Cutter Christmas” .
“We can thank the Dutch, along with other northern Europeans, for bringing cookies to America in the 17th century,” said Dean. “After a change in import laws, cheap kitchen items, like cookie cutters, were finally allowed to be imported from Europe to the American market. From there, a lot of new recipes started to appear and the cookies and traditions that we’ve known since the Middle Ages to evolve. “
According to one theory, the custom of milk cookies dates back to the 1930s, during the Great Depression. During that time of economic hardship, many parents tried to teach their children that it was important to give to others and to show gratitude for the gifts they received during the holiday.
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The custom ended up catching on, serving as inspiration for countries around the world that adopted their own versions of the popular Christmas tradition.
British and Australian children leave mince pies and a glass of sherry. Children in Denmark leave a bowl of rice pudding, while children in Ireland leave Santa Claus a good old cup of Guinness, explained Dean.
“I hope one of Santa’s elves is leading the sleigh after these things,” she joked.
“In America, Santa Claus is estimated to eat more than 300 million cookies on Christmas Eve each year,” said Dean, adding, “it’s no wonder he has a little punch.”
To watch Paula Dean’s full episode of “Cookie Cutter Christmas” and for more exclusive vacation content, visit Fox Nation and sign up today.
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