National Chocolate Pudding Day (June 26)

One weird holiday on June 26 is National Chocolate Pudding Day.
It’s a rich, nostalgic dessert that appeals to nearly everyone, and a fun excuse to indulge.
Whether you’re whipping up a classic recipe or grabbing a snack pack from the fridge, this is a day to enjoy the velvety texture and deep chocolate flavor.
From potlucks to pudding bars, there are lots of creative ways to join in. Another sweet entry in the list of weird holidays in June.
When is the Holiday?
National Chocolate Pudding Day is celebrated every year on June 26.
Who Invented It?
There’s no known founder, but it likely emerged from America’s love for chocolate desserts and the growing popularity of food-themed celebrations.
It’s one of many unofficial holidays honoring classic comfort foods.
The History of the Holiday
Chocolate pudding has a long culinary history. It evolved from early chocolate custards in 18th-century cookbooks to the easier stovetop and instant versions we use today.
Brands like Jell-O played a major role in making pudding more accessible, especially in the 20th century.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
Some restaurants have offered chocolate pudding baths as a novelty experience.
Chocolate pudding became a common school lunch dessert in the 1950s.
Jell-O released its first instant chocolate pudding mix in 1936.
Pudding used to be considered a health food in the Victorian era.
The U.S. consumes more pudding per capita than most countries.
Activities to Celebrate
Organize a backyard pudding relay or slip ‘n slide for kids (messy but fun!).
Set up a DIY pudding bar with toppings like berries, whipped cream, and crushed cookies.
Host a family bake-off using chocolate pudding as the main ingredient.
Try a new pudding recipe—vegan, keto, or international variations.
Watch movies with famous pudding scenes (like Matilda).
Related Recipes for the Holiday
Chocolate Rice Pudding in the Instant Pot – A twist on traditional pudding using Arborio rice and chocolate for a unique texture and taste.
Baileys Pudding Shots – These creamy, boozy desserts combine instant chocolate pudding with Baileys Irish Cream and whipped topping for an easy adult treat.
Slow Cooker Self Saucing Chocolate Pudding – A warm, comforting dessert where a rich chocolate cake forms over a gooey pudding layer while it cooks.
Keto Avocado Chocolate Pudding – A low-carb, dairy-free pudding made with ripe avocados, cocoa powder, and sweetener. Silky and surprisingly rich.
The Best Dirt Pudding Recipe – Crushed Oreos, gummy worms, and chocolate pudding come together in a kid-favorite treat.
Chocolate Dream Whip Pie – Light, mousse-like chocolate pudding is poured into a graham cracker crust and topped with whipped topping.
Vegan Chocolate Pudding – Made with coconut milk and cornstarch, this vegan recipe is thick, smooth, and full of chocolate flavor.
Hot Fudge Pudding Cake – A self-saucing dessert where the fudgy sauce bakes underneath a layer of soft chocolate cake.
Ninja Creami Chocolate Ice Cream – Use instant pudding as a base for creamy, churn-free chocolate ice cream.
Related Holidays
National Whipped Cream Day (January 5) – Highlights one of chocolate pudding’s best toppings, encouraging extra spoonfuls of fluffy indulgence.
Milk Chocolate Day (July 28) – Honors the smoother, sweeter version of chocolate that’s often used in pudding mixes and toppings.
World Chocolate Day (July 7) – A global celebration of all things chocolate—bars, cakes, drinks, and of course, pudding.
National Chocolate Chip Day (May 15) – Recognizes the tiny treat that can be stirred into pudding for added texture and flavor.
Chocolate Fondue Day (February 5) – A great excuse to dip fruits—and even pudding bites—into rich, melted chocolate.
National Chocolate Cake Day (January 27) – Celebrate the baked side of chocolate with rich, decadent cakes that pair perfectly with pudding.
National Chocolate Ice Cream Day (June 7) – A celebration of the frozen favorite, perfect for pairing with chocolate pudding. Serve it on the side, swirl it into parfaits, or use it as a chilled topping to contrast warm desserts.
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