A slice of rich, moist chocolate layer cake with dark chocolate ganache frosting on a white plate, garnished with chocolate shavings

Chocolate Cake Day is a delightful annual celebration dedicated to one of the most beloved desserts in the world—chocolate cake. This indulgent treat has a rich history and continues to bring joy to dessert lovers everywhere. Whether you bake, buy, or simply savor a slice, this day is all about celebrating the decadence of chocolate in cake form.

Quick Facts

When is it: January 27th
Tagged as: Food Holiday, Dessert Day
What’s the hashtag: #ChocolateCakeDay #NationalChocolateCakeDay
When was it founded: Late 20th century
Who founded it: Unknown, but gained popularity through social media and food enthusiasts

History

The journey of chocolate cake began in 1764 when Dr. James Baker discovered how to make chocolate by grinding cocoa beans. The first recorded chocolate cake recipe appeared in 1847 in Eliza Leslie’s cookbook, though it wasn’t quite like today’s version. Initially, chocolate was primarily consumed as a beverage, and early “chocolate cakes” were actually yellow or white cakes meant to be eaten while drinking chocolate.

Timeline

  • 1764: First chocolate-making process developed
  • 1847: First chocolate cake recipe published
  • 1948: Pillsbury launches first boxed chocolate cake mix
  • 1957: German Chocolate Cake recipe appears
  • 1967: Hostess introduces Ding Dongs

Dates by Next Year

YearMonth and DateDay
2025January 27Monday
2026January 27Tuesday
2027January 27Wednesday
2028January 27Thursday
2029January 27Saturday
2030January 27Sunday

Fun Facts About Chocolate Cake

  • 19% of people always choose chocolate cake for their birthday
  • Nearly one-third of people pick chocolate as their favorite cake flavor
  • The word “chocolate” comes from the Aztec word “xocotal”
  • Early chocolate cakes were much lighter in color than modern versions
  • The first chocolate cakes used actual chocolate pieces rather than cocoa powder

Quiz

  1. When was the first chocolate cake recipe published?
  2. Who discovered the chocolate-making process?
  3. What percentage of people always choose chocolate cake for birthdays?

(Answers: 1847, Dr. James Baker, 19%)

FAQs

Q: Why is Chocolate Cake Day celebrated on January 27th?
A: While its exact origins are unclear, January 27th has become a dedicated day for chocolate lovers to indulge guilt-free.

Q: What are some popular types of chocolate cakes?
A: Devil’s Food Cake, German Chocolate Cake, Black Forest Cake, and molten lava cakes are just a few examples.

Q: Can I celebrate without baking?
A: Absolutely! Visit your favorite bakery or grab a slice from a café.

Q: Why is chocolate cake so popular?
A: It triggers the release of serotonin and endorphins, creating feelings of happiness.

Q: What makes modern chocolate cake different from early versions?
A: Modern cakes use more cocoa powder and sugar, making them darker and richer.

Importance of Chocolate Cake Day

This celebration promotes culinary creativity, brings people together, and acknowledges the cultural significance of chocolate cake in celebrations and gatherings.

Related

  • National Chocolate Cupcake Day
  • World Baking Day
  • National Dessert Day
  • International Cake Day
  • National German Chocolate Cake Day