Scott and SadieIn the latest installment of “Studies That Didn’t Need to Happen,” a survey has crowned Kansas as the nation’s most dedicated holiday bakers, with residents allegedly spending over 18 hours in the kitchen during the festive season. Because when you think of culinary excellence, Kansas is obviously the first place that comes to mind.
This groundbreaking research, commissioned by Pillsbury Baking, involved 5,000 Americans and aimed to uncover the nation’s holiday baking habits. Tennessee residents, not to be outdone, rated their baking skills at a 7.4 out of 10—the highest in the country. Meanwhile, Californians and Wisconsinites humbly scored themselves at a modest 5.9, perhaps too busy with their avocado toast and cheese curds to care.
Montana leads the pack in gifting baked goods, with 52% of residents planning to share their homemade treats. Virginia, on the other hand, boasts 72% of people who believe receiving baked goods is the best gift ever. Because nothing says “I care” like a plate of cookies that took 14 minutes to make.
West Virginians describe their kitchens as “chaotic” during the holidays, with 56% embracing the festive mess. South Carolinians are most likely to play holiday music while baking, and Texans, never missing a chance to show off, are the most likely to dance. Utah residents are the biggest gingerbread house builders, while Minnesotans are most likely to attend a holiday bake sale.
In a shocking twist, 22 states prefer pies as their holiday treat, while 17 opt for cookies. Four states couldn’t decide between pies and cookies, and three chose cheesecake. Oregon, ever the rebel, is split between pies and fudge. Truly, these are the pressing issues of our time.
So, as you prepare for the holidays, take comfort in knowing that somewhere in Kansas, someone is spending 18 hours baking, and in Tennessee, a self-proclaimed baking expert is judging your cookie skills. Happy holidays, everyone.
