A fortune cookie is a crisp and sugary cookie that is typically served as a dessert in Chinese restaurants in the United States and other Western countries. Inside each cookie, there is a small piece of paper containing a "fortune," which is often a vague prophecy or a piece of advice. The cookie itself is made from flour, sugar, vanilla, and sesame seed oil. Fortune cookies are believed to have originated in California in the early 20th century, although their exact origins are debated. They are often associated with Chinese cuisine and are popular at the end of a meal, providing a fun and light-hearted way to conclude dining experiences.