World Baking Day
World Baking Day is a global nod to something worth celebrating no matter which map you grew up with.
Why it matters
WELCOME TO BAKING BLISS
Get ready to bake and enjoy the sweet rewards of your labor.
THE STORY
World Baking Day, celebrated on May 16, encourages people around the globe to bake and share their creations with family and friends. The event originated in 2012, sparked by a group of passionate bakers who sought to inspire others to discover the joy of baking. Since its inception, it has grown into a global phenomenon, uniting bakers of all skill levels in the kitchen.
In the United States, baking has deep roots, from the colonial era’s pie-making to modern-day cupcake trends. Home bakers take pride in preparing everything from traditional recipes to innovative desserts. This day serves as a reminder of the happiness that comes from creating something delicious and sharing it with others, reinforcing the bonds of community.
Baking can also offer therapeutic benefits, as studies indicate that engaging in this creative process can significantly reduce stress levels. The act of measuring, mixing, and kneading can be meditative, allowing bakers to focus on the present moment. Whether it’s the warmth of the oven or the smell of freshly baked bread, these sensory experiences create lasting memories.
As we celebrate World Baking Day, let us honor the tradition of baking and the joy it brings into our lives. From sharing recipes to hosting bake sales, this day is about coming together, enjoying the fruits of our labor, and embracing the sweet moments that baking creates.
Baking is both an art and a science.
WORTH KNOWING
Bake with Love
Share your baked goods with friends.
Explore New Recipes
Try baking something from a different culture.
Host a Bake Sale
Raise funds for a local charity.
Baking Therapy
Enjoy the stress-relieving benefits of baking.
AROUND THE WORLD
DID YOU KNOW?!
Most Popular Baked Good
Chocolate chip cookies are a favorite in the US.
World's Largest Cake
A cake weighing over 6,000 pounds was made in 2005.
Baking Competitions
Shows like ‘The Great British Bake Off’ inspire many bakers.
Baking as Therapy
Studies show baking can reduce anxiety levels.
Baking Traditions
Many cultures have unique baked goods for celebrations.
Flour History
Flour has been used in baking for over 6,000 years.
Baking Process
The Maillard Reaction is key to achieving flavor in baked goods.
READ MORE
The Joy of Baking
by Linda Carucci
A comprehensive guide to baking techniques and recipes.
Baking: From My Home to Yours
by Dorie Greenspan
A collection of beloved recipes from a renowned baker.
Flour Water Salt Yeast
by Ken Forkish
An exploration of artisanal bread baking.
Sweet: Desserts from London's Ottolenghi
by Yotam Ottolenghi
Innovative dessert recipes that highlight seasonal ingredients.
PAIR IT WITH
Pairs perfectly with pastries and cakes.
Enjoy with rich chocolate desserts.
Classic companion for cookies and brownies.
Great with scones and light pastries.
Bake and Share
Join the fun this World Baking Day by trying out new recipes and sharing your creations with others.
How to celebrate
Small, doable ways to celebrate World Baking Day.
- Read or watch something made outside the U.S. today.
- Cook a dish from a country you've been curious about.
- Donate to an international organization doing good work.
- Learn one word in a language you don't speak.
- Send a message to a friend who lives elsewhere.
Celebration ideas by audience
For families
Eat, watch, or listen to something from another country tonight.
For kids
Pick a country to learn about this week — flag, food, language, one famous person.
For couples
Plan a trip — real or imagined — to someplace you've never been.
At the office
Celebrate a team member's heritage — food, holiday, tradition.
At school
Tie the day into a geography, language, or world history unit.
In your community
Support an international nonprofit with a local presence.
On your own
Read long-form journalism from outside the U.S. today.