The Capital Region's Sweetest Secret: History of the Fudge Fancy Cookie
Known by locals as the Fudge Fancy (or the Fudge Fantasy), there is one cookie that is widely recognized as being unique to New York's Capital Region. The Fudge Fancy features a delightful combination of shortbread or sugar cookie, and a generous layer of thick fudge frosting. Learn more about the history of this Capital Region treat, and where you can find one today.
The Original Fudge Fancy Cookie
The Fudge Fancy cookie has been around for over 40 years, with the earliest version being created and sold at Golden Krust Bakeries, however Carl "Buster" and Debbie Alberino are credited with creating the popular Capital Region variation that we know and love.
The Alberinos got their start in 1984 and perfected their Fudge Fancy recipe at their bakery, the Vanilla Bean Baking Co., based out of Troy. Over the years, the Alberinos were able to grow their company to over 100 employees at 9 different locations in the Capital Region. However, in 2007, a variety of factors caused the Vanilla Bean Baking Co. to close its doors, leaving the Alberinos to face a daunting fresh start.
Undeterred by this setback, the Alberino family successfully launched a new venture called the Lake George Baking Company. With thriving locations in Lake George and Queensbury, they have firmly established themselves as one of the premier bakeries in the region. Still featuring their famous Fudge Fancies, the Lake George Baking Company has become an integral part of the local community.
What Is the Fudge Fantasy?
Around the same time when the Vanilla Bean closed its doors, Buster's nephews Chris and Joe Alberino embarked on their own baking adventure, founding The Cookie Factory in Troy. The Cookie Factory took its own spin on the famous cookie, renaming it the Fudge Fantasy.
They have since grown their business very successfully and now operate a second location in Clifton Park. In addition, The Cookie Factory has been able to expand its distribution to include local grocery stores like Hannaford and Price Chopper. This move has allowed the Fudge Fancy/Fantasy cookie to reach a wider audience, making it accessible to cookie enthusiasts throughout the area.
Enjoy This Capital Region Cookie Today
While the Alberino family has undeniably dominated the Fudge Fancy/Fantasy market, other local bakeries have crafted their own variations of this beloved treat. Among them, Bella Napoli is particularly renowned, hailed by some locals for their exceptional interpretation of the cookie.
However, the only sure way to discover which cookie truly is the best, is to try them all and decide for yourself!
Sources:
- https://thetakeout.com/americas-best-cookie-fudge-fancy-fantasy-where-to-buy-1849859409
- http://www.lakegeorgebakingcompany.com/About_Us.html
- https://www.glensfallschronicle.com/lake-george-baking-company-on-a-roll/