A quirky gingerbread plush’s journey from overlooked shelf item to viral sensation proves the power of social media and a little holiday cheer.
In a story that highlights the intersection of internet culture and the holiday season, Cookie, a stuffed gingerbread keychain from Ty, has become the most sought-after toy of the year. What started as a random purchase by 18-year-old Devin Silva at a CVS store in Washington, DC, has transformed into an unexpected viral sensation. Initially dismissed as “ugly” by Silva, Cookie’s charm slowly won over the internet, leading to sold-out stores and an influx of social media fans eager to get their hands on the plushie.
Silva, shopping for late-night ice cream, spotted Cookie hanging on the shelf at a local CVS. The small, goofy-eyed plush, with a red gumdrop nose, colorful buttons, and a frosting-inspired trim, wasn’t an immediate hit. Silva posted their initial reaction to the doll, calling it “ugly” in an X post. However, after their sister jokingly scolded them for “hurting Cookie’s feelings,” Silva returned to the store and bought the doll, later sharing its daily adventures online. The posts, which included Cookie lounging on marshmallow bags, enjoying Taco Bell, and snuggling in bed, quickly captivated the internet.
“I never imagined it would get this big,” Silva said, reflecting on the sudden fame of their new companion. Cookie’s relatable and whimsical presence soon drew in thousands of followers, turning Silva and Cookie into overnight internet celebrities. The doll, part of Ty’s Beanie Belly collection and typically priced at just $4.99, became a viral sensation, with fans flocking to CVS stores and other retailers across the country in a desperate search for the plush toy.
Cookie’s charm was further amplified by its quirky design—a gingerbread theme with frosting-like details and a poem about Santa’s arrival that tugs at the heartstrings of those nostalgic for Christmas traditions. As Cookie sold out in record time, fans took to social media to document their hunt, with many sharing their search stories on platforms like Reddit and TikTok. Some even resorted to purchasing the toy online, causing Cookie’s stock to vanish within a single day.
The success of Cookie has become a cultural phenomenon, as more and more people sought out the plush for its playful, holiday spirit. Ty, the toymaker behind Cookie, acknowledged Silva and the viral fanbase for bringing attention to the little stuffed doll. In a shoutout to Silva on social media, Ty expressed their appreciation for the role the internet played in Cookie’s rise to fame.
“I kind of fell for the viral craze and wanted to be able to say, ‘I have my own Cookie,’” said one fan, reflecting the widespread appeal of the toy. The ‘ugly-cute’ trend, combined with the rise of bag charms and keychains, has made Cookie a must-have accessory for many.
For Silva, what began as a simple sharing of daily moments has led to an unexpected wave of attention for Cookie, cementing its place as the ‘most wanted’ toy of 2024. Through this viral journey, Cookie has become more than just a stuffed animal—it’s a symbol of the power of social media, the magic of the holiday season, and the influence of online communities in shaping trends and cultural moments.
