Home » May » National Chocolate Chip Day (May 15)

National Chocolate Chip Day (May 15)

Check out the weird holiday National Chocolate Chip Day on May 15. Learn about the history of chocolate chips & get ideas on celebrating.

One weird holiday on May 15 is National Chocolate Chip Day. Check out the other weird May holidays!

National Chocolate Chip Day, celebrated annually on May 15th, is a day dedicated to one of the most beloved and versatile ingredients in the culinary world: the chocolate chip.

This day is not just about indulging in chocolate chip treats; it’s a celebration of the history, versatility, and sheer joy that these tiny morsels bring to both baking and snacking.

When is National Chocolate Chip Day?

National Chocolate Chip Day takes place every year on May 15.

Who Invented National Chocolate Chip Day?

The specific origins of National Chocolate Chip Day, like many food-themed commemorative days, are not clearly documented. These types of celebratory days often emerge from various sources: they could be established by food industry groups to promote their products, created by enthusiasts who are passionate about a particular food item, or initiated as part of marketing campaigns by brands or businesses.

For National Chocolate Chip Day, it’s plausible that it was initiated by confectionery companies or baking-related businesses to celebrate this popular ingredient and to encourage the baking and enjoyment of chocolate chip-containing products. The day serves as a reminder of the joy and versatility that chocolate chips bring to baking and cooking, appealing to both amateur and professional bakers, as well as chocolate lovers in general.

The Birth of the Chocolate Chip

The chocolate chip has a surprisingly recent history, with its invention dating back to the 1930s. The creation of the chocolate chip is credited to Ruth Graves Wakefield, the owner of the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts.

The story goes that Ruth, while baking a batch of cookies, decided to chop up a bar of Nestlé semi-sweet chocolate and add the pieces to her dough, expecting them to melt into the cookies. Instead, the chocolate pieces retained their shape, softening to a gooey texture, and thus, the iconic chocolate chip cookie was born.

This accidental yet delightful invention not only led to the creation of the famous Toll House cookie recipe but also spurred the mass production of chocolate chips by companies like Nestlé.

Realizing the potential of her discovery, she struck a deal with Nestlé: they could print her Toll House Cookie recipe on their chocolate bar’s packaging in exchange for a lifetime supply of chocolate. This partnership led Nestlé to start producing chocolate chips (then called “morsels”) in 1939, simplifying the process for home bakers and making chocolate chip cookies a national favorite.

Thus, the chocolate chip was born out of a blend of necessity and creativity, leading to one of the most popular and enduring treats in American culinary history.

The Chocolate Chip’s Rise to Popularity

The chocolate chip cookie quickly became a favorite, and its popularity soared, especially after Ruth Wakefield sold the recipe to Nestlé in exchange for a lifetime supply of chocolate. Nestlé began to produce chocolate chips (originally marketed as “morsels”) in 1939, making it easier for home bakers to replicate the beloved Toll House cookie recipe.

Varieties and Uses of the Chocolate Chip

Over the years, chocolate chips have evolved far beyond their original semi-sweet version. Today, they come in various flavors, including milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, bittersweet, and even flavored versions like mint and peanut butter. Their use extends beyond cookies into a range of desserts, from brownies and cakes to muffins and pancakes. Chocolate chips also find their way into savory dishes, adding a unique twist to sauces and meat dishes.

Celebrating National Chocolate Chip Day

National Chocolate Chip Day can be celebrated in numerous ways, and here are a few ideas:

  1. Bake Chocolate Chip Cookies: The most traditional way to celebrate is by baking a batch of classic chocolate chip cookies. Whether it’s a family recipe or a new one, the joy of baking and sharing cookies is at the heart of this celebration.
  2. Experiment with Recipes: Use chocolate chips in unconventional ways. Try them in homemade granola bars, sprinkle them on top of your morning oatmeal, or mix them into your pancake batter for a special breakfast treat. There is a long list at the end of this post for you to try out!
  3. Chocolate Chip Dessert Party: Host a dessert party where each dish features chocolate chips. Invite friends and family to bring their favorite chocolate chip dessert to share.
  4. Educational Activities for Kids: Use National Chocolate Chip Day as an educational opportunity for children to learn about baking. Simple recipes like chocolate chip muffins or no-bake cookies are great for teaching basic cooking skills.
  5. Share on Social Media: Share your chocolate chip creations on social media using hashtags like #NationalChocolateChipDay. It’s a fun way to see how others are celebrating and might give you new ideas for your own celebration.

While indulging in chocolate chips is a delight, it’s also essential to be mindful of dietary preferences and restrictions. Nowadays, there are a variety of chocolate chips available that cater to different dietary needs, including vegan, sugar-free, and allergy-friendly options.

National Chocolate Chip Day celebrates more than just an ingredient; it honors a small addition that has made a big impact on the culinary world. From the humble beginnings in a Massachusetts inn to becoming a staple in pantries around the world, the chocolate chip has brought simple joy and deliciousness to everyday life.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just a lover of all things chocolate, this day is a perfect opportunity to appreciate the sweet simplicity of the chocolate chip.

Ideas for National Chocolate Chip Day Recipes

Whipped Chocolate Chip Shortbread | She’s Not Cookin’
Chocolate Chip Fairy Cakes Recipe – What the Redhead said
Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball – Num’s the Word
Oreo Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookie Bars – A Dish of Daily Life
Cranberry Chocolate Chip Muffins – Crafty Cooking Mama
Make the Ultimate Easy Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Soft and Gooey Candied Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies – For the Love of Food
Best Chocolate Chip Cookies – Baking You Happier
Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies – Recipes From A Pantry
Mason Jar Chocolate Chip Cookies (+ Printable Tags) | A Reinvented Mom
Fluffy Chocolate Chip Muffins – Brooklyn Farm Girl
Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies – Entirely Elizabeth
Keto Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies – Stem and Spoon
The Best Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies You’ll ever taste!
This 4 Ingredient Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookie Will Be Your Favorite
| Cutefetti
Banana Muffins with Chocolate Chips – When is Dinner Banana Chocolate Chip
Muffins
EASY Vegan Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies – Delightful Adventures
Easy Chocolate Chip Scones – If You Give a Blonde a Kitchen
Chocolate Chip Biscotti Recipe – The Monday Box
Chocolate Chip Muffin Tops with Apricot – Savory Spin
Iron Man Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich – My 3 Little Kittens
Chocolate Chip and Earl Grey Cookies – The Gingered Whisk
Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Vegan Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream – Vegan Blueberry
Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe – Greedy Eats
Noah’s Chocolate Chip Cookies – GypsyPlate
The BEST Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe – Frugal Mom Eh!
Chocolate Chip Dip (with Cream Cheese) – Finding Zest
Matcha White Chocolate Chip Cookies – Milk and Pop
Bourbon Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies – The Forked Spoon
Ultimate Double Chocolate Chip Cookies – The Flavor Bender
Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies | Healthy | Vegan | No Flour
Sweet and Salty Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies – crave the good
Mint M&M Double Chocolate Chip Cookies – Dancing Through the Rain
Funfetti Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes | We are not Martha
Chewy Oat Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies
Super Easy Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake Recipe – The Zhush
Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie – Chewy & Crispy – Sweetly Cakes
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Balls – Mimosas & Motherhood
Tired of Birthday Cake? Make a Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake or Brownie (A
Cake Alternative) – Christina’s Cucina
Bakery Style Chocolate Chip Cookies | Butter Your Biscuit
My Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe | Coffee With Us 3
Chocolate Chip Snack Cake – Glitter, Inc.
Our Favorite Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookie Bars – Glitter, Inc.
Sweet Potato Chocolate Chip Cookies | Syrup and Biscuits
Crisco Chocolate Chip Cookies | How To Make Rice Crispy Treats
Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball with M&M’s – Fantabulosity
Vegan Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies – Courtney’s Homestead
Fluffy Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Waffles – The Oregon Dietitian
The Best Chewy Gluten-free Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars – Family Spice
Chocolate Chip Blondies
Mini Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes – Miss in the Kitchen
Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter – Chenée Today
Bourbon Chocolate Chunk Cookies » Whisky + Sunshine
Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins – Flavorful Eats
Best Chewy Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies – The Carrot Underground🥕
Chocolate Chip Cookies with Honey | Two Pink Peonies
Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies (video) – Everyday Delicious
Double Chocolate Chip Muffins : Jawns I Cooked
Triple Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe — Registered Dietitian Columbia
SC – Rachael Hartley Nutrition
Bakery Style Chocolate Chip Cookies | Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies | Eat
the Love
Sea Salt Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies – The Short Order Cook
Chocolate Chip Cookie Biscotti
Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookies – All Nutritious
Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies {Chewy & Soft} | Tastes of Lizzy T
Vegan Double Chocolate Chip Cookies – BakedbyClo | Vegan Dessert Blog
Low Sodium Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe (No Salt Added)
Christmas Chocolate Chip Sprinkles Butter Cookies #ChristmasSweetsWeek –
Moore or Less Cooking
Olive Oil Chocolate Chip Cookies | Cooking On The Weekends
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe | Dump and cook!
Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies – This Italian Kitchen
Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookies – A Blossoming Life
Vegan S’Mores Cookies with Chocolate Chips Gluten-Free | Planted365
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars (In 9 x 13 Pan) – Homebody Eats
Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding Recipe (Easy!) | Baking Me Hungry
Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies (No Egg Replacer!)
Mom’s Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies (Self Rising Flour) – Kindly Unspoken
Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies – Cozy Peach Kitchen
Dark Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies – 5 Minutes for Mom
Keto chocolate chip cookie lasagna – Family on Keto
Pumpkin Banana Chocolate Chip Bread | A Taste of Madness
Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate Chip Biscotti – Casual Foodist
Easy Blended Chocolate Chip Cookie Baked Oats – Nourished by Nic
Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe – Dessert for Two
Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins – Simply Stacie
Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies – Beyond The Chicken Coop
Chocolate Chip Treasure Cookies – Life Currents
Greek Yogurt Choc Chip Muffins (Low Sugar Recipe) – Scrummy Lane
Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies (Soft & Chewy!) | Worn Slap Out
Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes – My Kitchen Serenity
Sheet Pan Chocolate Chip Pancakes – Food Meanderings
Condensed Milk Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate Chip Pretzel Cookies | The Food Blog
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Pecan Bread (Gluten free option)
Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe – Home at Cedar Springs Farm
Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies – The Windy City Dinner Fairy
Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies – Courtney’s Sweets
Chocolate Chip Cookie Shot
Double Chocolate Muffins with Pumpkin and Chocolate Chips
Oat Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies (gluten free!) – Pinch and Swirl
Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies {BEST Eggless Cookies}
Oreo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies – Suburban Simplicity
Easy Chocolate Chip Loaf Cake – Apply to Face Blog
Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies – The Feathered Nester
Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies – 2 Cookin Mamas
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies – Easy and Delish
Banana Chocolate Chip Mug Cake – Bree’s Vegan Life
Chocolate Chip Zucchini Muffins – Herbs & Flour
Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies – Rainbow Nourishments
Secret Revealed! Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Best Keto Chocolate Chip Cookies – Dani’s Cookings
Coffee and Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies – Grits and Gouda
Chocolate Chip Turtle Cookies Recipe – Intelligent Domestications
Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies {Extra Gooey}
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Muffins – Bunny’s Warm Oven
Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins – By The Forkful
Layered Chocolate Chip Cookies – Bakery Worthy! – That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Vegan Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies – Plant-Based on a Budget
Bakery Style Chocolate Chip Cookies – Piper Cooks
The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Ever – JoyFoodSunshine

Pin it!

Share this post about National Chocolate Chip Day on Pinterest!