National Cocoa Day ☕

Overview

National Cocoa Day, observed on December 13th, is a celebration of the rich, warm, and comforting beverage derived from the cacao bean. It's a perfect occasion to enjoy a steaming mug of hot cocoa, explore various chocolate treats, or delve into the fascinating history and benefits of this beloved ingredient.

Origin and story

Cocoa beans are the seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree, which literally translates to 'food of the gods'.

Ancient Olmec, Maya, and Aztec civilizations in Mesoamerica were among the first to cultivate cacao and consume it as a bitter, spiced drink.

Quick facts

• DateDecember 13
• TypeFood / Dessert
• Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

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Ways to celebrate

Cocoa was once currency, not just a beverage — the Aztecs used cacao beans to buy food and goods, and reserved the drink itself, brewed bitter and spiced, for royalty, warriors, and religious ceremony.

Have a mug

Celebrate by:

• Making real hot cocoa from cocoa powder instead of a instant packet.
• Trying it unsweetened or lightly spiced, closer to how the Aztecs and Maya actually drank it.

See the drink's ancient roots

Helpful resources:

• History of Chocolate: Cocoa Beans & Xocolatl (HISTORY)

Did you know?

The word "chocolate" likely evolved from the Aztec "xocolatl," itself probably borrowed from the Maya "chocolhaa," meaning "bitter water" — a far cry from the sweetened version most people drink today.

Fun facts

• Cocoa beans are the seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree, which literally translates to 'food of the gods'.
• Ancient Olmec, Maya, and Aztec civilizations in Mesoamerica were among the first to cultivate cacao and consume it as a bitter, spiced drink.
• Cocoa was once considered so valuable that it was used as currency by ancient civilizations, particularly the Aztecs and Mayans.
• It contains antioxidants called flavanols, which are also found in red wine and green tea.
• The first solid chocolate bar was created in 1847 by British chocolatier J.S. Fry and Sons.
• Dutch chemist Coenraad Johannes van Houten developed the cocoa press in 1828, a revolutionary invention that helped separate cocoa butter from roasted cocoa beans, making cocoa powder easier to dissolve in liquids.

Sources and attribution

History of Chocolate: Cocoa Beans & Xocolatl (HISTORY)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

Continue your streak

Open one more holiday before you go to build daily momentum.

• Yesterday: Gingerbread House DayQuick context from the day before.
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FAQ

When is National Cocoa Day?

It is observed on December 13 each year.

What is National Cocoa Day?

National Cocoa Day, observed on December 13th, is a celebration of the rich, warm, and comforting beverage derived from the cacao bean. It's a perfect occasion to enjoy a steaming mug of hot cocoa, explore various chocolate treats, or delve into the fascinating history and benefits of this beloved ingredient.

How do people celebrate National Cocoa Day?

Make real hot cocoa from cocoa powder, unsweetened or lightly spiced closer to how the Aztecs drank it.

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