How were Twinkies invented?
Twinkies were developed as an inexpensive treat during the Depression. Jimmy Dewar, manager of the Schiller Park, IL bakery, noticed the pans for Hostess’ Little Shortbread Fingers were only used during summer months. Dewar decided to make use of the pans throughout the year by filling them with golden sponge cake and banana filling. Today’s vanilla filling was the result of a banana shortage during World War II. En route to show off his new idea in St. Louis, Dewar saw a billboard for “Twinkle Toe Shoes” – and the name Twinkies was born.