Did you know there’s a difference between hot chocolate and hot cocoa? Before I get to the answer, here are some facts about chocolate:

• Over 2,000 years ago, the Mayans created the first chocolate drink. By 1400 AD, drinking chocolate was an important part of Aztec culture. Montezuma drank 50 cups of chocolate daily.
• Dark chocolate consumed in moderation has health benefits. It is high in antioxidants, may lower blood pressure, can be a mood-booster, can improve blood flow to the brain, and may protect skin from UV rays.
• The chocolate chip cookie was invented by accident.
• Because it doesn’t contain cocoa solids, white chocolate is technically not chocolate.
• During WW II, M&M’s were invented so soldiers could enjoy chocolate without it melting.

In the U.S. we interchange the terms hot chocolate and hot cocoa, but there is a difference. Melted, high-quality chocolate is poured into milk to become hot chocolate. Hot cocoa is made with cocoa powder, milk and sugar. If you like a sumptuous, rich drink, go for the hot chocolate.

Happy National Hot Chocolate Day and enjoy a cup this evening.

Resources:

Fun Facts about Chocolate: whitakerschocolate.com. April 4, 2023.

Chocolate Facts for KS2 Children and Teachers: 15 Fascinating Chocolate Facts. March 4, 2020.

National Hot Chocolate Day – January 31. national calendar.com.