When it comes to desserts that are easy to make and tasty, brownies are perhaps the most popular. Everything from mini brownies to blondies have become popular treats among adults and children alike. However, this dessert was not always a staple in bakery windows - brownies have come a long way since bursting onto the scene in the beginning of the 20th century.

The First Brownies

Although brownies are a delectable food that can be found everywhere from grocery stores to bakeries today, they were tough to come by at the start of the 20th century. TheNibble.com reports that brownies were first created in the U.S., but it wasn't until the early 1900s when they were derived through the use of smaller cake pans.

Brownies likely got their name from their dark color and chocolaty ingredients. They began showing up in advertisements and grew in popularity at the beginning of the 20th century, quickly pushing them to the top of the dessert food chain. Today, everything from brownie cakes to cheesecake-infused brownies can be found on grocery store shelves across the country. Homeowners now have the luxury of being able to bake brownies through boxed mixes in their own kitchens. Furthermore, everything from chocolate chips to nuts can be added in order to spice up this chocolatey dessert.

The Appearance of Brownies in Cookbooks

Many people believe that the first recipe for brownies was published in the 1897 catalog from Sears Roebuck, but the term "brownie" was technically being applied to a molasses-based candy. TheNibble.com reports that the earliest references to actual brownies showed up in cookbooks from New England in the early 20th century. From there, people fell in love with the dessert and turned it into a mainstay.

National Brownie Day

As one of the most beloved treats in the U.S., brownies have become so popular that they have their own day - December 8. Each year, this date marks National Brownie Day, which is when people come together to chow down on everything from chocolate chunk brownies to blondies. CNN reports that part of the popularity of brownies may be partly due to how easy it is to make them. Whether it's December 8 or a sultry summer day, these tasty treats can be made in virtually any baking pan in a matter of minutes. Brownies are also easier to transport than cakes and cupcakes, making them an ideal lunchtime snack for adults and kids alike.