National Cocoa Day is celebrated each year on December 13. A cup of cocoa or hot chocolate is the perfect way to set the scene for the upcoming winter holidays.
The terms hot cocoa and hot chocolate are pretty much interchangeable. The difference being that hot cocoa is made with cocoa powder, heated milk or water, and sugar. Hot chocolate uses ground chocolate containing cocoa butter mixed with hot milk.
Origin of Cocoa
The first chocolate beverage was created by the Mayans over 2000 years ago. It became an essential part of the Aztec civilization by 1400 and eventually found it's way from Mexico to the New World. The original cocoa drink was created by grinding cocoa seeds into a paste and mixing it with water, cornmeal, chili peppers, and other ingredients. This first cocoa was very bitter, since sugar had not yet been discovered, but was highly prized by the elite of the Aztec world.
It was also thought to have medicinal properties to combat stomach ailments. In our modern times, the health benefits are known to come from the antioxidants in the chocolate.
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Source: Pixabay |
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| Snowman Hot Cocoa Bomb |
Or ~ you could make a quick and fun cup of cocoa with a Cocoa Bomb! This snowman cocoa bomb, and other cute designs, such as a unicorn cocoa bomb, are handmade by ItzMyPartyCakery on Etsy.
Hot Chocolate Recipes from Scratch
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Source: Pixabay |
Check out Allrecipes for a delicious 'from scratch' hot chocolate recipe.
*For an even quicker way to make homemade hot chocolate, using cocoa powder and chocolate chips, check out this recipe from Allison featured on her blog Celebrating Sweets.
Ways to Serve
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Source: Pixabay |
A cup of hot cocoa is delicious served in a variety of ways. Add one or more of the following toppings for a delicious warm drink on a cold winter's day.
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon and sugar
- Marshmallow
- candy canes
- caramel
- toffee bits
- coconut
- Peppermint Patties
- butterscotch candies, crushed
- candy sprinkles
- cinnamon cereal
- mini chocolate chips
- chopped nuts
Pick a pretty Cocoa Mug
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| Cocoa Mug - Etsy |
Use your favorite mug for your cocoa or hot chocolate. Or pick out a new one for this winter season, such as this darling Hot Cocoa mug available in the Hello Lovely Gift Shop on Etsy.
Mark the Date!
Mark December 13 on your calendar for National Cocoa Day and enjoy the relaxing and warming taste you've come to enjoy in a delicious cup of Cocoa.
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Source: Pixabay |
Cocoa Day Review written by (c) Wednesday Elf on 12/5/2020
Related Links:
- For those on a Keto Diet, Margaret Schindel has perfected the Ultimate Keto Hot Chocolate Recipe.
- For making your own homemade Cocoa Bombs, check out Sylvestermouse Cynthia's recipe.
