Definition of the word brandy snap

The term "brandy snap" first appeared in Henry Winston's cookbook, "The Schoolmistress's Guide Through the Year," published in 1846. Winston originated the name in reference to the brandy used in the recipe's cooking process. The treat consists of a sweet, crispy cookie made with flour, sugar, water, lemon juice, and brandy. During the Victorian era, it was a popular dessert in England and served at high-class social events. They were typically shaped into baskets, which were then filled with fruits and custard. The nickname "brandy snap" was a refined variation of "brandy biscuit," a name previously used for a similar cookie, made without lemon juice. The addition of lemon juice not only added flavor but also served as a preservative, allowing the cookies to be kept for extended periods, an essential factor for the growing trend of gift-giving during the Christmas season in the mid-1800s. In summary, "brandy snap" is a term coined by Henry Winston in 1846, referring to the brandy used in the recipe, and has become a popular British dessert since then.