Fortune Cookie Facts

Although synonymous with Chinese food and restaurants, fortune cookies did not originate in China. In fact, fortune cookies are not found in China at all. Fortune cookies are an American tradition invented in the United States. Although they are served in Chinese restaurants, the country of China serves only as an inspiration for the fortune-telling cookies.

Origin

The origin of fortune cookies can be found in California. However, the actual inventor and location of that invention are still in question. David Jung, founder of Hong Kong Noodle Company in Los Angeles, claims to have created the fortune cookie in 1916. It is said that he created the treats to brighten the spirits of survivors of World War I with the light-hearted messages.
Others claim Japanese immigrant Makoto Hagiwara created the fortune cookie. Hagiwara designed the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. The San Francisco Court of Historical Review later decided that Hagiwara is the inventor of the fortune cookie.

History

Although the fortune cookie was created in the United States, the idea may have been based on Chinese history. It is a Chinese custom to put messages in cakes and sweets. According to legend, in the late 1300s, moon cakes were used to pass messages. The messages contained plans for a Chinese rebellion against the Mongol warlords who had conquered northern China.

Where They Are Made

Fortune cookies are manufactured in the United States. They are also only served in Chinese restaurants in the United States. In spite of their popularity in the U.S., fortune cookies were never well-received in China.

How They Are Made

The fortune cookie is made of crisp Asian American-style dough containing flour, sugar, vanilla and oil. The cookies were originally made by hand with chopsticks.

Current Production

Wonton Food in Queens, New York, is the largest producer of fortune cookies. It manufactures and ships out 60 million fortune cookies per month.