The iconic chocolate bar, Kit Kat, is a beloved treat worldwide, but have you ever wondered when it first got its distinctive name? Let's delve into the history of this famous snack and uncover the origins of its name.
Kit Kat's journey began in the early 20th century, with its creation attributed to Rowntree's of York, a British confectionery company. However, the name 'Kit Kat' predates the chocolate bar itself, with roots tracing back to 18th-century England. But how did this name make its way onto our favorite break-time treat?
The origins of the name 'Kit Kat'
The name 'Kit Kat' is believed to have originated from a popular 18th-century snack called a 'Kit-Cat', a type of small, round biscuit. These biscuits were often served with chocolate or other sweet fillings, which might seem familiar to Kit Kat lovers today.
The term 'Kit-Cat' is thought to have been derived from the Kit-Cat Club, an exclusive literary society that met in London during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The club's name is said to have originated from the small, cat-sized pies served at their meetings, which were called 'kit-cats'.
The Kit-Cat Club connection
The Kit-Cat Club was an influential gathering of writers, artists, and intellectuals who met to discuss and promote English literature. Their meetings were often held in coffee houses, which were popular social hubs at the time. The club's members included notable figures such as Jonathan Swift, Alexander Pope, and Joseph Addison.
The club's name and its association with literary figures might seem like an unlikely connection to a chocolate bar. However, the Kit-Cat biscuits were a popular treat among the club's members and were often served at their meetings. This connection between the Kit-Cat Club and the small, sweet treats helped to popularize the name 'Kit-Cat' in England.
The evolution of 'Kit-Cat' to 'Kit Kat'
As the Kit-Cat biscuits gained popularity, the name began to evolve. The 't' was eventually dropped, and the name became 'Kit Kat'. This change might have been a result of the biscuits being sold in pairs, as the name 'Kit Kat' could be seen as a reference to the two fingers of chocolate and wafer that make up the iconic chocolate bar.
By the time Rowntree's created their chocolate-covered wafer bar in 1935, the name 'Kit Kat' had already become associated with sweet treats. The company adopted the name for their new product, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The modern-day Kit Kat
Today, Kit Kat is a global phenomenon, with millions of bars sold each year. The name 'Kit Kat' has become synonymous with the chocolate-covered wafer treat, and its origins have become a fascinating part of the brand's history.
The name 'Kit Kat' might have humble beginnings, but it has since become a beloved part of popular culture. From its roots in 18th-century literary society to its place in the hearts of chocolate lovers worldwide, the Kit Kat name has truly stood the test of time.
So, the next time you enjoy a Kit Kat break, you can appreciate the rich history and unique origins behind this iconic name. And who knows? Perhaps the next great literary masterpiece will be inspired by a Kit Kat break of its own.