National Cocoa Day

National Cocoa Day History

National Cocoa Day is dedicated to celebrating one of the nation's most beloved beverages - hot cocoa. This occasion invites all people, regardless of age or location, to unwind and indulge in the rich and comforting flavor of this classic winter drink.

Despite its popularity, the exact origin of National Cocoa Day is unclear. However, the tradition of drinking cocoa dates back to the ancient Mayans and Aztecs, who revered it as "the drink of the gods". Today, it has taken on a sense of nostalgia for many, bringing back memories of snowy days spent inside. Cocoa plays a pivotal role in the culinary arena too, its powdered form being a staple in many household cupboards for baking or for the creation of sumptuous hot beverages.

Whether you prefer dark, milk, or white chocolate, National Cocoa Day is the perfect time to satisfy your sweet tooth .National Cocoa Day effortlessly transcends months and seasons, and is celebrated every year on December 13th.

National Cocoa Day facts

• Cocoa has many health benefits. It can help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve blood flow. Cocoa is one of the richest sources of polyphenol, a naturally occurring antioxidant.
• Cocoa is believed to have first been cultivated by the Olmec civilization in Southern Mexico. Researchers have found evidence of cocoa-based food dating back to several thousand years according to the worldcocoafoundation.
• 70% of the world's cocoa beans come from four West African countries: Ivory coast, Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon.
• In the 19th century, Conrad Van Houten, a Dutch chemist, invented a hydraulic press that made it easier to separate the cocoa butter from the cocoa solids. This leftover powder made it easier to mix with water and milk to create hot cocoa.
• In Latin, the tree is called "Theobroma cacao," which translates to "food of the gods."
• Despite the high demand for cocoa beans, most cocoa farmers have never tasted finished chocolate products due to the high costs associated with them in these regions.

In the News and Trending for National Cocoa Day

Top things to do for National Cocoa Day

• Spend time with family and friends. Host a book reading, or watch a holiday movie while enjoying some hot cocoa.
• Try hot chocolate bombs, an aesthetic hot cocoa dessert. Hot chocolate bombs are chocolate creations containing cocoa mix and marshmallows. Drop one in a glass and pour some milk. Watch as your hot cocoa comes to life.
• Enjoy cocoa paired with a complementary food. Salty foods, sweet foods, and tangy foods all make excellent pairings. These can include roasted nuts, sweets with a minty flavor, or fruits like oranges and strawberries.
• Spread some cocoa joy by donating hot cocoa mix or chocolate to a local food bank, shelter, or charity organization.
• Get creative in the kitchen and make a delicious dessert infused with cocoa. You could bake chocolate brownies, chocolate chip cookies, a chocolate cake, or even try making homemade truffles or chocolate fondue.