The Legend of Steenstra’s Cookies
A Steenstra’s Tale
The Legend of St. Nicholas
In a quaint Dutch village, nestled amidst windmills and canals, lived a kind and generous man named Nicholas. Renowned for his compassion and wisdom, Nicholas was a beacon of hope for the village's children. Each year, as winter approached, Nicholas would set out on his trusty horse, venturing through the snowy countryside to visit the children in need.
Leaving his windmill home, Nicholas was always greeted by the rooster's cheerful crow cutting through the crisp winter air, signaling the start of his journey. With a heart full of love and a bag filled with cookies, Nicholas would arrive at the children's homes, leaving gifts and sweets by each chimney.
One year, a particularly harsh winter blanketed the land. The children, shivering and hungry, feared that St. Nicholas might be unable to reach them. But Nicholas pressed on, his path illuminated by the twinkling lights of the village's windmills. As he traveled, Nicholas encountered a young boy and girl huddled together for warmth. Touched by their resilience, he offered them a warm embrace and a handful of his delicious Dutch Windmill Cookies.
With newfound hope, the children watched as Nicholas continued his journey, his silhouette disappearing into the snowy mist.
As the day drew to a close, the owl hooted a mournful farewell, its cry echoing through the quiet village. Nicholas had completed his mission, bringing joy and hope to the town's children.
And so, the legend of St. Nicholas, the kindhearted patron saint of children, was born. It is a tale of generosity, courage, and the enduring power of hope.
The Story
Behind the Shapes
The distinctive shapes of Steenstra's Windmill Cookies hold a special significance. The cookie cutter die used to create these shapes dates back to the early 1900s and tells the legend of St. Nicholas. Each shape represents a key element of the story:
Windmill
The old windmill where St. Nicholas lived.
St. Nicholas on his horse
Symbolizing his travels to visit children.
Rooster
Representing the dawn, when St. Nicholas would begin his journey.
Boy AND Girl
The children who received St. Nicholas's gifts.
Owl
Symbolizing nighttime, when St. Nicholas would return home.
A Timeless Tradition
Steenstra's Windmill Cookies continue to be made with the same fresh ingredients and historic recipe that have made them a beloved treat for generations. Each bite is a testament to the Steenstra family's commitment to quality, tradition, and the enduring magic of Dutch baking.