Everything you need to know about the history of tutti frutti
Who isn’t familiar with the colourful chunks of sweet and chewy tutti frutti found commonly on ice cream and buns? Considered one of the most classic ingredients that not only evokes nostalgia but instantly takes you to the simple days of school lunches and family gatherings. But do you know the story behind tutti frutti, a treat which is deeply ingrained into the history? Let’s explore its rich history and how these cherries became an integral part of ice creams, faloodas, cakes, buns and more.
Origin of tutti fruttiIt is believed that Tuti Frutti’s tale began even before it was introduced to the local market or bakeries. The concept of candied fruit dates back to the 16th century in Italy, and the term tutela frutta, meaning all the fruit, was used to describe a mix of vibrant fruits like cherries, apricots, peaches and lemons. Some Italians even served it with savoury dishes, showcasing its versatility.
However, the Americans often hold a claim to have invented tutti frutti ice cream. This ice cream leaves room for confusion. In 1950, an ice cream maker named Roy Motherhead from Kentucky popularly claimed to have created the treat for his daughter Tutti. Despite this popular narrative, a cookbook from 1874 had already featured a recipe for tutti frutti ice cream. While the Americans might have popularised it, they certainly weren’t the first to bring it to the table or present it to the audience.
Tutti Frutti
Indian twist to this Italian treatNow, the magic begins when tutti frutti made its way to India. During the colonial era, tutti frutti, like numerous Western treats, became a part of the Indian food scene but with an interesting twist. Exotic fruits like peaches and cherries, which were originally part of the tutti frutti mix, were expensive for the bakeries in India. So bakers in India used papaya and watermelon, later soaked them in sugar syrup, and dyed them in red, yellow and green colours. The result of it was not only colourful but also became synonymous with the classic Indian tutti frutti.
This version became an integral part of the buns, cakes and ice cream available widely in India; tutti frutti came to represent not just the candied fruits but the great spectrum of baked desserts and goods too. As the Indian version is slightly different from the original, it still has its own charm and has become a staple in bakeries across the country.
Journey of tutti fruttiThe journey of tutti frutti isn’t really confined to Italy, America and India. In Italy, this became a symbol of celebration with varieties preserved in brandy and numerous festive desserts. Back in the late 1800s, tutti frutti wasn’t just a household favourite in Italy but also in the United States. The delight gained prominence as a winter preserve where people started blending fruits, brandy and sugar for delightful feasting in colder months.
In the United States, it was loved and found its way into the world of chewing gum, making its debut as one of the first flavours available in the vending machines in 1888. However, in 1920, the brandy preserved tutti frutti became illegal, and the spirit of tutti frutti came alive during the 1970s.
Tutti Frutti
Indian tutti fruttiFast forward to 1990, the cherries cemented a place in Indian food culture. Whether in the buns, ice creams or layered cakes, it is an essential ingredient in the Indian kitchen. It was especially beloved for its bright colours, which would easily transform the ordinary dessert into something delightful.
Indian bakeries before liberalisation had limited access to the exotic fruits that were typically found in Western tutti fruitti. So, bakers created their own version using locally available ingredients like watermelon and papaya. These sugary and chewy pieces were dyed in delightful colours, which added a vibrant essence to the cakes.
As the 2000s era progressed, tutti frutti became a staple in local bakeries and started getting displayed in big jars in every store. For homebakers, this became one of the indulging treats for a great burst of flavour on the palate. The presence of tutti frutti in everyday sweets became one of the most delightful choices, evoking comfort or feelings.
Amidst the rise of gourmet ice cream and bakeries, tutti frutti experienced a nostalgic renaissance in India. With lockdown taking the centre stage and the shift towards simple dishes, this was one of the most accessible ingredients, which is visually appealing and is bursting with sweetness in every bite.