National Chocolate Chip Day 🍪

Overview

National Chocolate Chip Day, observed annually on May 15th, is a sweet celebration dedicated to the iconic chocolate chip and its vital role in countless beloved desserts. From classic chocolate chip cookies and muffins to pancakes and ice cream, this day encourages enthusiasts to indulge in and appreciate the versatile ingredient that adds a burst of chocolatey goodness to a wide array of treats, recognizing its enduring popularity as a baking staple worldwide.

Origin and story

The chocolate chip cookie was accidentally invented in 1938 by Ruth Graves Wakefield at the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts.

Ruth Wakefield initially expected the chocolate pieces to melt and blend into the dough, but they didn't, resulting in the distinct chocolate chip cookie.

Quick facts

• DateMay 15
• TypeFood / Dessert
• Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

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Ways to celebrate

The chocolate chip as a distinct product didn't exist until a year after the cookie itself — Nestlé had to invent a whole new manufacturing shape, the teardrop "morsel," just to keep up with demand for Ruth Wakefield's recipe.

Snack on some, plain

Celebrate by:

• Eating chocolate chips straight out of the bag, no baking required.
• Comparing chip sizes and brands, since not all "chips" are actually the same shape.

See how the chip itself was invented

Helpful resources:

• A Brief History of the Chocolate Chip (Mental Floss)

Did you know?

In 1939, Nestlé began scoring its semi-sweet chocolate bars into exactly 160 pieces sized for Toll House cookies before shifting to the ready-made teardrop morsel — technically, Nestlé still calls them "morsels," not "chips."

Fun facts

• The chocolate chip cookie was accidentally invented in 1938 by Ruth Graves Wakefield at the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts.
• Ruth Wakefield initially expected the chocolate pieces to melt and blend into the dough, but they didn't, resulting in the distinct chocolate chip cookie.
• Nestlé acquired the rights to Wakefield's Toll House chocolate chip cookie recipe and the 'Toll House' name in exchange for a lifetime supply of chocolate.

Sources and attribution

A Brief History of the Chocolate Chip (Mental Floss)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

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FAQ

When is National Chocolate Chip Day?

It is observed on May 15 each year.

What is National Chocolate Chip Day?

National Chocolate Chip Day, observed annually on May 15th, is a sweet celebration dedicated to the iconic chocolate chip and its vital role in countless beloved desserts. From classic chocolate chip cookies and muffins to pancakes and ice cream, this day encourages enthusiasts to indulge in and appreciate the versatile ingredient that adds a burst of chocolatey goodness to a wide array of treats, recognizing its enduring popularity as a baking staple worldwide.

How do people celebrate National Chocolate Chip Day?

Eat chocolate chips straight from the bag and compare different brands' chip shapes and sizes.

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