In Bavarian Franconia, around Erlangen where Emmy Noether grew up, the day is structured in two parts. At noon, Mittagessen is the hot meal: a soup base (often thickened with browned flour) opens the meal, followed by meat or dumplings (Klöße). In the evening, it's time for the cold Brotzeit (or Vesper): rye bread, cheese, cold cuts, served on a board, no cooking. Special occasions revolve around Kirchweih, the village's patronal festival, which brings out plum cakes, doughnuts, and gingerbread. At Emmy's, who "cared little about food," this framework loosened into informal mathematical gatherings where puddings and cakes were served.

Just a stone's throw from Erlangen, Nuremberg has been the gingerbread capital since the Middle Ages. Its spice blend—cinnamon, clove, cardamom, nutmeg, allspice (all cautiously measured), and anise—flavors not only Lebkuchen but also, in small touches, cakes and compotes. It is the aromatic signature of all Franconia, Emmy Noether's homeland.