National Hot Chocolate Day

A cozy scene of a smiling person holding a steaming mug of hot chocolate, wearing a cozy winter sweater, sitting by a fireplace with snow falling outside.. — National hot chocolate day illustration

Welcome to a tale brewed to perfection, steeped in sweetness and served piping hot. Let’s take a savory sip into the history of National Hot Chocolate Day, a day so delightfully snug that you'll wish it had a place on your calendar every day!

When is Hot Chocolate Day?

It's national hot chocolate day on the 31st January.

The Sweet Beginnings

Long before ugly sweater parties became a thing, National Hot Chocolate Day, spotted in 6767 online mentions, stole the spotlight on January 31st. With its popularity peaking in 2021, this is a day that celebrates a deliciously warm and comforting drink.

The Bittersweet Legacy

Hot chocolate took center stage thanks to our cocoa-crazy ancestors in the Mayan and Aztec civilizations. Back then, it was anything but sweet, mixed with chili peppers and cornmeal, talk about a killer morning cappuccino! This frothy beverage eventually changed hats and took on a much sweeter profile after being introduced to Europeans, who added sugar and milk. And bam! Hot chocolate, as we know it, was born.

The Choco-Mania

And so, on every 31st of January, people across the globe celebrate this historical concoction by cosying themselves in layers of blanket, finding their favorite book or Netflix series and savoring a mug of steamy, rich hot chocolate. So don’t be surprised if you find 'I Love Hot Chocolate' banners waving around your neighborhood or a sudden surge in 'How to make the perfect hot chocolate' tutorials on Youtube.

Let’s Celebrate!

So next time this day swings around, grab your spoon and a luxurious bar of chocolate and get stirring! Whether you are a marshmallow-on-top or whipped-cream-with-a-cherry person, remember, the fun lies not just in the sipping, but in the making as well.

So, mark your calendars, set a reminder, do whatever it takes to ensure you don't miss out on a holiday that celebrates one of life's simplest, yet greatest pleasure: hot chocolate.

History behind the term 'Hot Chocolate'

1100

The Discovery of Chocolate

In the year 1100, the ancient Mayans discovered the cacao tree and its miraculous fruits. They believed that the tree was a divine gift and the chocolate made from its beans possessed mystical properties. The Mayans consumed a bitter beverage made from ground cacao beans mixed with water and spices, which laid the foundation for what would later become hot chocolate.

1528

Introduction to Europe

Hot chocolate made its way to Europe during the Spanish conquest of the Americas in the early 16th century. Hernán Cortés, the Spanish conquistador, shared this exotic beverage with the Spanish court upon his return from Mexico. Initially, hot chocolate was consumed exclusively by the aristocracy, often flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and other expensive spices.

1650

Popularization and Sweetening

Hot chocolate continued to gain popularity in Europe, particularly in England and France, during the mid-17th century. At this time, the bitter taste of pure cacao was sweetened by adding sugar or honey, making it more palatable to a broader audience. The beverage became a favorite among the upper classes and was often consumed in special chocolate houses.

18th Century

Development of Drinking Chocolate

During the 18th century, advancements in chocolate production led to the creation of solid chocolate. Previously, hot chocolate had been prepared by manually grinding cacao beans and mixing them with hot water. With the introduction of solid chocolate, people started adding grated or melted chocolate to milk, creating a creamier and more indulgent hot chocolate drink.

19th Century

Hot Chocolate Powder and Instant Mixes

In the 19th century, hot chocolate transitioned from a luxury beverage to a more accessible treat. Companies began producing hot chocolate powder, making it convenient to prepare at home. These early powdered mixes consisted of cocoa powder, sugar, and sometimes milk solids. This innovation allowed people to enjoy hot chocolate without extensive preparation.

20th Century

Commercialization and Variations

Hot chocolate became increasingly commercialized in the 20th century, with various brands offering instant hot chocolate mixes. Alongside traditional flavors, new variations emerged, such as white chocolate, flavored syrups, and marshmallows. Hot chocolate also found its way into cafes and coffee shops, evolving into a beloved winter beverage enjoyed by people of all ages.

Did you know?

Did you know that the first hot chocolate was actually a lukewarm, thick, bitter drink enjoyed by Aztecs? It was a far cry from the sweet, creamy delight we know today!