Have you ever wondered why milk chocolate tastes so different from other chocolates? Well, it's all in the ingredients! Milk chocolate is a delightful mix of cocoa solids and either dry or condensed milk. Unlike dark chocolate, which is primarily used as a baking ingredient, this lighter version is perfect for making chocolate candy bars, hot chocolate, and a wide variety of delicious desserts.
What Makes Milk Chocolate So Special?
One of the key differences between milk chocolate and other types of chocolate is the addition of milk. This gives milk chocolate a creamy and smooth texture that melts in your mouth. The milk also adds a touch of sweetness, making it a favorite among those with a sweet tooth.
But it's not just the taste and texture that make milk chocolate special. Did you know that chocolate actually has mood-enhancing benefits? That's right—chocolate can make you happy! This is due to the fact that it contains a stimulant called theobromine and a compound called anandamide. These substances can boost your mood and make you feel good.
The History of National Milk Chocolate Day
Now that we know how amazing milk chocolate is, let's take a moment to appreciate National Milk Chocolate Day. This special day is celebrated on July 28th every year and is a time to indulge in all things milk chocolate.
The history of National Milk Chocolate Day can be traced back to Daniel Peter, the inventor of milk chocolate. Peter was born in the village of Moudon, located in the Canton of Vaud, in beautiful, mountainous Switzerland in 1836. He was a Swiss chocolatier who had a passion for creating delicious and innovative chocolate treats.
In 1875, Peter made a groundbreaking discovery. He found a way to combine milk with chocolate, creating the first-ever milk chocolate bar. This invention revolutionized the chocolate industry and paved the way for the milk chocolate we know and love today.
Celebrate with Milk Chocolate
So, how can you celebrate National Milk Chocolate Day? The possibilities are endless! You can indulge in a creamy milk chocolate bar, savor a cup of rich and velvety hot chocolate, or treat yourself to a delectable milk chocolate dessert.
Whether you're a fan of milk chocolate or not, there's no denying its unique and irresistible flavor. So go ahead, treat yourself to a little bit of happiness on National Milk Chocolate Day!
How to celebrate National Milk Chocolate Day
Enjoy your favorite milk chocolate on this day and maybe try out some recipes with milk chocolate in them. Maybe try this one for a Chocolate Candy Bar Cake
What you will need:
1 (18.25 ounce) package devil’s food cake mix
1 1/2 cups milk
3 eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1 (3.5 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
1/2 cup white sugar
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 (12 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 cup chopped pecans
4 (1.5 ounce) bars milk chocolate candy, coarsely chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease and flour 3 (8 inch) pans.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, milk, eggs, oil and instant vanilla pudding mix. Beat on low speed until blended. Scrape bowl, and beat 4 minutes on medium speed. Pour batter into prepared pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool.
- To make the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with the white sugar and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
- Fold in the whipped topping, pecans and chopped chocolate.
- Spread between layers and on top and sides of cake.