National Pastry Day
National Pastry Day observed annually on December 9 is the perfect excuse for you to enjoy the buttery, flaky, and delicate creations that have been a global favorite for centuries.
Be it savory or sweet, pastries bring a sense of comfort and deliciousness to every bite making them a fantastic treat for any holiday or occasion.
From danishes filled with fruits, and croissants to savory puff pastries or meat pies, there is a pastry to satisfy every taste bud.
National Pastry Day was officially established in 2015, inviting pastry lovers across the globe to savor these irresistible treats and share in the joy of baking and sharing pastries with friends and family.
History of Pastries
The making of pastries goes back to ancient Mediterranean civilizations including the Greeks. Phoenicians and Romans who popularized filo-style pastries.
During 5th century BC Greece, Aristophanes talked about pastries filled with small fruits while Romans utilized oil, water, and flour to make pastry coverings for meats, though these were not consumed.
Richer and edible pastries filled with eggs or birds were made for banquets. However, both Romans and Greeks struggled with the stiffness of pastries due to the use of oil.
In medieval Northern Europe, shortening and butter were being used which made the pastries even stiffer and some pastries like “coffins” or “huff paste” were glazed with egg yolks that were consumed by servants.
Although the full recipes of the medieval era did not survive, the 16th century witnessed the development of actual recipes that evolved across Europe from Portuguese pasteis de nata to Russian pirozhki
They started using chocolate in Western pastries after Portuguese and Spanish traders brought it from the New World in the 16th century and French chef Antonin Carême (1784–1833) is considered a master of modern pastry-making.
In Asia, pastry traditions grew strong. Chinese pastries, like moon cakes and cha siu bao, are important in festivals and daily cuisine. Western-style pastries came to Asia in the 19th century through the British, and French influence later made them popular, especially in Hong Kong. Korean and Japanese pastries, like tteok and mochi, use special regional ingredients and are different from the sweeter Western pastries.
How to Observe National Pastry Day
What is a better way of celebrating National Pastry Day than by eating your favorite pastries or trying something new. You can also try your luck at baking and get creative with your own recipes.
There is nothing better than being able to create your own things and enjoying those warm homemade treats. You can also grab your favorite pastries from your favorite pastry shops and take your friends along.
Don’t forget to post your pastry creations on social media with the hashtag #NationalPastryDay to connect with other pastry lovers and spread the joy of this delicious holiday!
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