
National Chocolate Covered Anything Day – Dec 16
National Chocolate Covered Anything Day is a delightful celebration that indulges our sweet tooth and showcases the versatility of chocolate as a delectable treat. This special day, observed annually on December 16th, encourages chocolate lovers around the world to explore the endless possibilities of combining chocolate with various foods and flavors.
From traditional favorites like strawberries and pretzels to innovative creations like bacon and potato chips, the allure of chocolate-covered treats knows no bounds. Join us as we delve into the origins, popular treats, health benefits, and creative ways to celebrate National Chocolate Covered Anything Day.
1. Origins of National Chocolate Covered Anything Day
Historical Background
Back in the mists of time (well, 2007 to be exact), some genius decided that there needed to be a day dedicated to the glorious combination of chocolate and, well, anything. And just like that, National Chocolate Covered Anything Day was born.
Creation of the Holiday
The holiday was concocted as a fun way to embrace all things chocolate-covered and indulge in the sweet, gooey, and oh-so-delicious treats that make life a little sweeter. Who wouldn’t want a day dedicated to dunking everything in chocolate?
2. Popular Chocolate Covered Treats
Classic Favorites
From strawberries to pretzels, classic favorites like nuts, fruits, and marshmallows are timeless choices for a chocolatey coating. These treats never go out of style and always hit the spot.
Trendy Options
For the more adventurous chocoholics, trendy options like bacon, potato chips, and even insects (yes, really) are making waves in the chocolate-covered world. Don’t knock it till you try it!
3. Health Benefits of Chocolate
Antioxidant Properties
Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is loaded with antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. So go ahead, and have that extra piece guilt-free!
Mood-Boosting Effects
Eating chocolate releases feel-good chemicals in the brain like serotonin and endorphins, which can help improve your mood and reduce stress. It’s a tasty little mood booster in a wrapper.
4. Creative Ways to Celebrate
Host a Chocolate Tasting Party
Gather your friends and family for a chocolate-tasting party where everyone brings their favorite chocolate-covered treat to share. It’s a sweet way to sample a variety of goodies and bond over a mutual love of chocolate.
DIY Chocolate Dipping Station
Set up a DIY chocolate dipping station with an array of treats like cookies, fruit, and marshmallows, along with different types of melted chocolate for dipping. Let your creativity (and sweet tooth) run wild as you dunk and decorate to your heart’s content.
5. History of Chocolate-Covered Foods
Ancient Origins of Chocolate Consumption
Chocolate has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations like the Mayans and Aztecs who enjoyed chocolate in liquid form. They believed it had mystical and aphrodisiac properties – move over, oysters!
Evolution of Chocolate-Covered Treats
Fast forward to the 20th century, and we see the inception of chocolate-covered treats like nuts, fruits, and bars. This culinary innovation took the world by storm, proving that everything is better when coated in chocolate.
6. Unique Chocolate Covered Creations
Unconventional Ingredients to Dip in Chocolate
In a world where bacon and even insects get the chocolate treatment, the possibilities are endless. It seems like if it exists, someone, somewhere, has tried to cover it in chocolate. Would you dare to take a bite?
Artisanal Chocolate Covered Treats
Move over basic chocolate-covered strawberries, artisanal chocolatiers are pushing boundaries with unique flavors and high-quality ingredients. From lavender-infused truffles to sea salt caramel-covered pretzels, these treats are a true feast for the senses.
7. Chocolate Industry Trends
Sustainable Chocolate Practices
As consumers become more conscious of where their food comes from, the chocolate industry is following suit. From fair trade certification to environmentally friendly farming practices, sustainable chocolate is no longer just a trend but a necessity.
Flavor Innovations in Chocolate Products
The days of plain milk chocolate are long gone. Today, you can find chocolates infused with exotic spices, floral notes, and even savory ingredients. Get ready for your taste buds to go on a wild and delicious ride!
8. Recipes for Homemade Chocolate Covered Treats
Here are a variety of homemade chocolate-covered treats to try, ranging from classic favorites to creative ideas:
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
Ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries (washed and dried completely)
- 1 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for a glossy finish)
- White chocolate for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt the chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring in between.
- Dip the strawberries into the melted chocolate, leaving the green tops exposed.
- Place the dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them set in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Melt the chocolate and dip the pretzels halfway into the chocolate.
- Shake off the excess and decorate with sprinkles or crushed nuts.
- Let the pretzels cool on a parchment-lined tray until the chocolate sets.
Chocolate-Covered Almonds
Ingredients:
- 1 cup roasted almonds
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- Cocoa powder (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt the chocolate in a microwave or double boiler.
- Add almonds to the melted chocolate and coat evenly.
- Remove almonds one by one, and place them on a lined tray. Dust with cocoa powder if desired.
- Chill until set.
Chocolate-Covered Marshmallows
Ingredients:
- Marshmallows
- 1 cup milk or dark chocolate chips
- Crushed graham crackers or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
- Skewer marshmallows with a toothpick or lollipop stick.
- Dip them into melted chocolate and roll in crushed graham crackers or sprinkles.
- Place on parchment paper and let set in the fridge.
Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Balls (Buckeyes)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and butter until smooth. Shape into small balls and freeze for 30 minutes.
- Melt chocolate and dip the balls halfway, leaving the top exposed.
- Let them cool on parchment paper until set.
Chocolate-Covered Bacon
Ingredients:
- Thick-cut bacon, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- Sea salt or chili flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the bacon until crispy and let it cool completely.
- Dip the bacon strips into melted chocolate, coating halfway or entirely.
- Sprinkle with sea salt or chili flakes and chill on parchment paper until set.
Chocolate-Covered Oreos
Ingredients:
- Oreo cookies
- 1 cup white or dark chocolate chips
- Crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or drizzle (optional)
Instructions:
- Dip Oreos into melted chocolate and shake off excess.
- Place on parchment paper and add toppings like crushed candy or sprinkles.
- Chill until set.
Chocolate-Covered Banana Bites
Ingredients:
- Bananas, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 cup milk or dark chocolate
- Crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
- Dip banana slices into melted chocolate and sprinkle with desired toppings.
- Place on parchment paper and freeze until firm.
Chocolate-Covered Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients:
- Cheesecake squares (pre-chilled and cut into small squares)
- 1 cup dark or milk chocolate
Instructions:
- Freeze cheesecake squares for 1-2 hours.
- Dip frozen squares into melted chocolate and let set on a parchment-lined tray in the fridge.
Chocolate-Covered Popcorn
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Spread popcorn on a parchment-lined tray.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the popcorn and toss gently to coat.
- Add sprinkles for decoration and let set.
These treats are fun, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. You can mix and match chocolate types (milk, dark, or white) and toppings to create your favorite combinations!
In Short
On National Chocolate Covered Anything Day, let the lingering taste of chocolate-covered delights inspire your future culinary adventures. Whether you savor the classics or dare to experiment with unconventional combinations, this celebration of all things chocolate serves as a reminder of the joy and creativity that food can bring. So, indulge in a final bite of your favorite chocolate-covered treat and carry the spirit of this delicious holiday with you throughout the year.
Photo by Adonyi Gábor
1. Why is National Chocolate Covered Anything Day celebrated on December 16th?
2. What are some unique and unexpected foods that can be dipped in chocolate?
3. Are there any dairy-free or vegan alternatives for chocolate-covered treats?
4. How can I incorporate chocolate-covered treats into holiday gatherings or parties?
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