National Chocolate Chip Day, celebrated annually on May 15th, is a joyous occasion that honors one of the most beloved ingredients in the culinary world: the chocolate chip. This delectable confection has captured the hearts and taste buds of many, offering its rich and vibrant sweet touch in countless recipes, from the classic chocolate chip cookie, to pancakes, and even savory dishes.
On this day, chocoholics and food lovers alike indulge in the deliciousness of chocolate chips and pay homage to their irresistible sweetness and versatility. So, get ready to commemorate this tasty little morsel in the most delightful ways.
History of National Chocolate Chip Day
The birth of the chocolate chip took place back in 1937, brought to life by Ruth Graves Wakefield of the Toll House Inn located in Whitman, Massachusetts. This happened when she decided to include small pieces of a semi-sweet chocolate bar from Nestlé within her cookie recipe. The result was a resounding success, and her recipe dubbed “Toll House Chocolate Crunch Cookies” gained publicity through a local newspaper around Boston.
Fast forward to 1939 when a partnership was established between Wakefield and Nestlé. The agreement entailed Nestlé producing chocolate chips as we recognize them today, and Wakefield’s recipe began being featured on the packaging of their products. In exchange, Wakefield was promised a never-ending supply of Nestlé’s chocolate.
The first recognized celebration of National Chocolate Chip Day took place in the year 2000. The initiation of this day presents a chance to revel in this favorite confectionery component. However, there’s no clear identification of who came up with the idea.
Today, the celebration of this day remains a favorite amongst those who love to bake, companies that produce chocolate chips, all the dessert lovers out there, and anyone who doesn’t shy away from a little sweetness. The commemoration of this day is marked by the creation of chocolate chip cookies and other delicious treats, trying out novel recipes involving chocolate chips, or relishing the simple pleasure of eating chocolate chips right from the bag.
National Chocolate Chip Day Timeline
Creation of the Chocolate Chip Cookie
Ruth Graves Wakefield invented the chocolate chip cookie at her inn, the Toll House, in Whitman, Massachusetts.
Spread of Chocolate Chip Cookie
Nestle and Ruth Graves Wakefield reached an agreement to add her recipe to their chocolate bar's packaging.
First Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix
Betty Crocker releases the first packaged mix for chocolate chip cookies.
The Official State cookie of Massachusetts
The chocolate chip cookie was recognized as the official state cookie of Massachusetts, marking the significant role of the cookie in the state's history.
First National Chocolate chip day
Event organizers inaugurated National Chocolate Chip Day to celebrate and appreciate the tiny bits of chocolate used in various desserts.
Ideas to Celebrate National Chocolate Chip Day
Host a Chocolate Chip Bake-off
Invite your friends and family over to each prepare their best dessert featuring chocolate chips. Have everyone vote for their favorite at the end.
Chocolate Chip Tasting Party
Explore different kinds of chocolate chips available, from dark and milk chocolate, white chocolate, to vegan and gourmet options. Arrange them with different pairing like fruits, nuts, and wines.
Visit a Local Chocolate Factory
Many chocolate factories have tours where you can learn about the chocolate making process and even try fresh chocolate chips.
Try New Recipes
Use this day as an opportunity to try out new chocolate chip recipes. From cookies to pancakes, muffins to cakes, the possibilities are endless.
Chocolate Chip-Centric Dinner
Challenge yourself to use chocolate chips in every part of your dinner, from appetizers to main course, and, of course, dessert.
Homemade Chocolate Chips
Find a recipe for homemade chocolate chips online and try making them yourself. It's fun and gives you an appreciation for the process.
7 Interesting Facts About Chocolate Chip
Origin of Chocolate Chips
Chocolate chips were invented by Ruth Graves Wakefield, the owner of the Toll House Inn, in the 1930s. She cut up chunks from a semi-sweet chocolate bar and added them to a cookie dough recipe.
An Accident Turned Delicacy
Initially, Wakefield expected the chocolate to spread throughout the cookies during baking. Instead, the chocolate pieces retained their shapes, softening to a creamy texture.
The Most Popular Cookie in America
As of 2023, the chocolate chip cookie is the most popular cookie in America, accounting for over half of the global cookie market.
Nestlé's Deal with Wakefield
Nestlé and Wakefield struck a deal: Nestlé would print her chocolate chip cookie recipe on its packaging, and Wakefield would be given a lifetime supply of Nestlé chocolate.
The World's Biggest Chocolate Chip Cookie
The world record for the largest chocolate chip cookie was established in 2003. The cookie had a diameter of 40.1 meters and was made by The Immaculate Baking Company in North Carolina.
Different Types of Chocolate Chips
Today, chocolate chips come in various forms like semi-sweet, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, and even vegan.
Versatility of Chocolate Chips
Chocolate chips aren't just used in cookies. They are widely used in a variety of baked goods, such as pancakes, muffins, hot chocolate, and even in some savory dishes.
National Chocolate Chip Day FAQs
Next National Chocolate Chip Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 15th | Monday |
| 2024 | May 15th | Wednesday |
| 2025 | May 15th | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 15th | Friday |
| 2027 | May 15th | Saturday |
| What is the pattern? | Every May 15th | |
National Chocolate Chip Day Word Search
- Chocolate
- Cookies
- Brownies
- Baking
- Desserts
- Cocoa