National Baking Week runs from October 14 to 20 in the U.K. It was started by Pyrex and other baking companies in 2007 to encourage people of all skill levels to try baking at home. The week is celebrated alongside the popular TV show “The Great British Bake Off,” offering a week full of delicious recipes and entertaining television. People join the celebration on Twitter using the hashtags #NationalBakingWeek or #N.B.W., and by tagging the official National Baking Week page in their posts.
History of National Baking Week
Bread-making dates back to Neolithic times, nearly 15,000 years ago, when early humans cooked plant broths on hot stones. In 2014, archaeologists discovered the world’s oldest oven in Croatia, dating back 6,500 years.
The Ancient Egyptians baked bread with yeast, but the art of bread baking as we know it began in Ancient Greece around 600 B.C. with the invention of enclosed ovens.
The Roman Empire was also known for its passion for pastries and treats. By around 300 B.C., being a pastry cook had become a recognized profession, known as the pastillarium.
Pastries were served at large banquets and celebrations, and in 168 B.C., a bakers’ guild was established in Rome.
Eventually, Europe and Asia became involved in baking as well. By the 13th century, baking had become a commercial trade in London.
Over the following years, there were numerous bakers’ guilds, flour mills, and cakes made for weddings and celebrations, along with a regulated market system for baked goods.
The 20th century advanced baking significantly, thanks to new preservation methods like refrigeration and the increased availability of baking ingredients. This greatly enhanced the craft of baking.
In 2007, National Baking Week was established by Pyrex, with support from other baking brands, to encourage people of all skill levels to bake at home. The holiday was promoted nationally by the company, bloggers, recipe writers, and baking enthusiasts.
| 15,000 years ago (Neolithic Humans Bake Bread) | Neolithic humans bake plant broths into bread using hot stones. |
| 600 B.C. (The Invention of the Enclosed Oven) | The Greeks invent the enclosed oven for baking. |
| The Middle Ages (Baking is a Commercial) | Baking is a commercial trade in Europe. |
| 2007 (National Baking Week Surfaces) | The National Baking Week is introduced by Pyrex. |
Five Interesting Facts About Baking
Croissants Aren’t French: Early versions of croissants, known as ‘Kipferl,’ were made in Austria in the 13th century, not France.
German Chocolate Cake is American: Despite its name, German Chocolate Cake is named after Samuel German, an English-American chocolate maker who created the dark chocolate used in the recipe.
Yeast Eats Sugar: Yeast consumes the sugars in bread dough and produces carbon dioxide, which causes the dough to rise.
Cookies Were Invented by Persians: The first cookies, used to test oven temperature, were created by bakers in Persia around the 7th century A.D.
Eight Basic Types of Cookies: There are eight basic types of cookies recognized today.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Baking Week is more than just a modern celebration—it’s a tribute to the rich and diverse history of baking that spans thousands of years. From Neolithic bread-making to the refined pastries of Ancient Rome and the commercial baking practices of medieval Europe, the craft has evolved significantly.
Established in 2007 by Pyrex, this week serves as an opportunity for baking enthusiasts and novices alike to explore and celebrate the art of baking. Whether you’re inspired by ancient techniques or the latest trends in baking, National Baking Week encourages everyone to roll up their sleeves, preheat the oven, and enjoy the timeless joy of baking. So, join the fun, share your creations, and let the spirit of baking bring warmth and delight to your home.
Frequently Ask Question
What is National Baking Week?
National Baking Week is a celebration in the U.K. that runs from October 14 to 20. It was started by Pyrex and other baking companies in 2007 to encourage people of all skill levels to try baking at home.
Why was National Baking Week established?
National Baking Week was established to promote baking and inspire people to experiment with baking at home, regardless of their skill level.
How is National Baking Week celebrated?
The week is celebrated alongside the TV show “The Great British Bake Off,” with a variety of delicious recipes and baking-related activities. People also participate by sharing their baking experiences on Twitter using the hashtags #NationalBakingWeek or #N.B.W. and tagging the official National Baking Week page.
What is the history of baking?
Baking has a long history, starting with Neolithic humans baking bread on hot stones around 15,000 years ago. The practice evolved with the invention of enclosed ovens by the Ancient Greeks around 600 B.C. The Romans also had a significant influence on baking, establishing a bakers’ guild in 168 B.C. Over time, baking spread through Europe and Asia, becoming a commercial trade in London by the 13th century.
What advancements have been made in baking?
The 20th century saw significant advancements in baking due to new preservation methods like refrigeration and improved availability of baking ingredients, which greatly enhanced the craft.
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