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The Delicious History of Brownies: From 1904 to Today
When faced with the eternal dilemma of choosing between a brownie and essentially anything else, the choice is clear for many: the brownie reigns supreme. But as we indulge in our favorite chocolatey treats, have they always been this delectable? To uncover the answer, we must journey back to 1904 and explore some of the earliest recipes for this beloved dessert.
The Search for the First Chocolate Brownie Recipe
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Interestingly, the first documented recipe that called something a "brownie" didn’t actually contain any chocolate; it appeared in a cookbook from 1896, utilizing molasses instead. The first true chocolate brownie is credited to the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago, but the term “brownie” wasn’t used until years later. Therefore, our quest brought us to an even earlier recipe, one that combines the characteristics of what we now recognize as a brownie.
In 1904, the 'Service Club Cookbook' published a recipe known as Bangor Brownies, which best matches the modern brownie composition. The recipe detailed specific measurements, including:
½ cup (115g) salted butter
½ cup (60g) pastry or all-purpose flour
1 cup (200g) sugar
2 ounces (57g) unsweetened Baker's chocolate
2 eggs
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- ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts
These ingredients closely mirror those found in today's brownie recipes, albeit with varying measurements. However, a curious challenge arose: determining how much a "square" of Baker’s chocolate weighed back in 1904. Historical research revealed that the chocolate was packaged differently then, requiring a careful recalibration of the recipe to ensure accuracy.
The Brownie-Making Process Unfolds
With the ingredients procured and clarified, the cooking process began. The technique set forth in the 1904 recipe called for creaming the butter and sugar, a method distinct from the more common practice of melting the butter today. By taking the time to cream these ingredients, a fluffy and creamy mixture formed.
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A slow melting process followed for the chocolate, utilizing a double-boiler technique. Once melted, it was combined with the creamed mixture after cooling slightly to avoid scrambling the eggs. After integrating the flour and walnuts, the delicious batter was poured into a baking pan and placed in the oven.
While the original baking time was listed as 15 minutes, a check at that mark revealed the insides were still runny. A few extra minutes were needed to achieve the desired consistency before transferring the completed brownies to a rack to cool.
A Deeper Dive into Brownie Lore
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To contextualize the dessert further, it is vital to recount the rich history of brownies before 1904. Notably, in 1893, the Chicago World's Fair was home to the Palmer House Hotel's creation of a brownie-like treat, crafted for a lady's lunch and intended to be hand-held and forkless. These dense chocolate squares, adorned with an apricot glaze and walnuts, soon became a sought-after delicacy at the hotel.
This history is attributed to Bertha Honoré Palmer, who was instrumental in the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and sought a practical dessert that wouldn’t interrupt the busy schedule of the ladies’ meetings. Although the original recipe remains a point of contention regarding its accuracy, the Palmer House continues to proudly serve its version of the brownie today.
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The etymology of "brownie" itself adds another layer to the narrative. The late 1800s saw an explosion in popularity for the term due to a children’s book, "The Brownies - Their Book," by Canadian author Palmer Cox. This book depicted small, mythical creatures known as brownies, who would aid with chores as well as play pranks, creating a delightful connection between the confectionery treat and folklore.
A Taste Test of History
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Upon tasting the brownies made from the 1904 recipe, the nostalgia lingered. While their texture was slightly different than the gooey delights of today, the chocolatey flavor matched modern expectations. Their density and chewiness were appealing, affirming that while baking techniques and preferences may change, the core essence of the brownie has remained unchanged over the last 120 years.
Today, the brownie continues to hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of dessert enthusiasts worldwide. While variations abound, from cream cheese brownies to adventurous flavors garnished with cherries, at its core, a brownie is a brownie, bringing joy and indulgence to those who partake.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Brownies
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In conclusion, brownies have endured the test of time, evolving while maintaining their signature deliciousness. Whether you opt to make them from an old recipe or indulge in a modern interpretation, one thing is clear: life is undoubtedly sweeter with brownies. So go on, treat yourself, and perhaps even whip up a batch of these historical delights for a taste of the past.