5. Cookies

 The Costume of Yorkshire, by George Walker (1781-1856). Engravings by R. & D. Havell. From New York Public Library Rare Books Division. Image from Wikimedia Commons

The very name comes from the Dutch word “koekje” meaning “little cake.” The Dutch initially created these sweet treats to test the temperature of their ovens. Dutch children would line up in the kitchen to get their hands on them before the cooks would bake more complex breads and pastries. And how do you think these little delights made it to America? Through the bakeries of New Amsterdam.