Under the direction of Bertha Palmer, the brownie was created in the Palmer House Kitchen in order to be served at the Columbian Exposition World’s Fair in 1893.

In honor of National Brownie Day on Sunday, December 8, the birthplace of the brownie – now known as Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel – is holding a celebratory weekend of new and extravagant brownie offerings and experiences. Hotel guests and Chicagoans alike are encouraged to visit for a taste of this world-famous confection. The original Palmer House Brownie combines gooey fudge and the crunch of walnuts, plus the tartness of an apricot glaze.

Upon check-in from December 6-8, the historic hotel's guests will receive a themed digital welcome letter in partnership with Kipsu. This letter will take guests on a journey through the history of the confection with interactive animation, introducing them to the legacy of the Palmer House Brownie. They will also be treated to complimentary Palmer House Brownie Bites and receive an invitation to exclusive brownie-themed indulgences.

Throughout the weekend, a dedicated Brownie Indulgence Menu will be available. Among the offerings is the signature Bertha’s Brownie Pancakes at the onsite Lockwood Restaurant. Additional delicacies available are Brownie Cheesecake, Brownie Brittle and Brownie Lattés, as well as the Original Palmer House Brownie. Adults can enjoy the bespoke Brownie Old-Fashioned, a liquefied version of the Palmer House Brownie infused with premium liquors and accoutrements.

For those who will not be in Chicago for National Brownie Day, Palmer House has announced a new partnership with delivery platform Goldbelly, allowing brownie fans across the nation to experience the taste of the iconic dessert. The Palmer House Brownie will be available for purchase on Goldbelly beginning November 18, just in time for order in advance of National Brownie Day. Those ordering from the retail platform will also receive an opportunity to redeem special room night discounts on future stays.

To further immerse guests into the history of the dessert, Palmer House will introduce a new “Brownie Ambassador in Culinary Arts” Masterclass for groups looking to learn and perfect the chocolatey treat. Working under the expertise and guidance of Palmer House brownie chef Scott Gourley, group attendees will be granted exclusive access to the onsite Brownie Kitchen, where they will delve into the precise culinary techniques behind this 131-year-old recipe. Upon mastering the craft, participants will earn a vintage keepsake certification that they can take home as a memento, distinguishing them as an official Palmer House Brownie Ambassador.

Extending the brownie festivities through the December holidays, Palmer House will debut a limited-time Original Palmer House Brownie Ornament on December 6, available for purchase at Lockwood Express for $45. This keepsake serves as a miniature replica of the sweet treat, complete with its distinctive walnut topping and shiny apricot glaze finish. A special peppermint-flavored brownie variation will make its debut later in the season.