This timeline focuses on the events leading to and following Ruth Wakefield's accidental invention of the chocolate chip cookie, a culinary innovation that revolutionized baking.
The Accidental Invention
c. 1938
While baking cookies for her guests at the Toll House Inn, Ruth Wakefield famously ran out of baker's chocolate. She substituted it with chopped pieces of a Nestle semi-sweet chocolate bar, expecting it to melt and blend into the dough.
The First Chocolate Chip Cookies
c. 1938
Instead of melting, the chocolate pieces retained their shape, creating the first chocolate chip cookies. These cookies were an instant hit with the inn's patrons.
Popularity Spreads
Late 1930s
The cookies became so popular at the Toll House Inn that word of their deliciousness spread quickly. Soon, people were traveling from far and wide to try Ruth Wakefield's creation.
Nestlé Collaboration
Early 1940s
Ruth Wakefield made a deal with Nestlé, allowing them to print her recipe on their chocolate bar wrappers. In return, she received a lifetime supply of chocolate. This collaboration significantly contributed to the widespread popularity of chocolate chip cookies.
Enduring Legacy
Ongoing
The chocolate chip cookie has become a beloved and iconic treat enjoyed worldwide. Ruth Wakefield's accidental invention continues to bring joy to generations of bakers and cookie lovers.
