National Milk Chocolate Day

Every year on July 28th, chocolate enthusiasts all over the world come together to celebrate a National Milk Chocolate Day. From its fascinating history to its enduring popularity, this sweet treat has captivated the taste buds of people for centuries.

The History of Milk Chocolate

Milk chocolate, as we know it today, was first introduced in the 19th Century. It was Swiss chocolatier Daniel Peter who revolutionised the chocolate world by combining chocolate with milk powder, creating a smoother and sweeter version of the dark chocolate that was prevalent at the time. His invention came to fruition with the help of his friend and neighbour, Henri Nestlé, who provided him with the condensed milk necessary for the creation of this tasty confection.

The first milk chocolate bar was produced in 1875. This breakthrough marked the beginning of a new era in the chocolate industry, as milk chocolate soon gained immense popularity worldwide. Over time, various confectionery companies started producing their own versions of milk chocolate, incorporating their unique recipes and flavours.

Chocolate’s Origins

The history of chocolate dates back thousands of years to ancient civilisations in Mesoamerica. The Mayans and Aztecs are among the earliest known cultivators and consumers of cocoa beans, which they brewed into a bitter beverage called “xocolātl.” This beverage was considered a luxury reserved for royalty and special occasions.

When the Spanish explorer Hernán Cortés encountered the Aztec civilization in the early 16th Century, he was introduced to xocolātl. Recognising the potential of this exotic treasure, he brought cocoa beans back to Spain, where the bitter beverage was eventually sweetened with sugar and flavoured with various spices like cinnamon and vanilla.

As chocolate spread throughout Europe, it remained a luxury enjoyed by the wealthy and noble classes. It wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution that advancements in technology allowed for the mass production of chocolate, making it more affordable and accessible to the general population.

Milk Chocolate Truffles Recipe

What better way to celebrate National Milk Chocolate Day than by making your own decadent milk chocolate truffles? These melt-in-your-mouth treats are surprisingly simple yet are sure to impress friends and family!

Ingredients

230g of high-quality milk chocolate, chopped into small pieces

120g of double cream

2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened

1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, or shredded coconut (optional, for
coating)

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, heat the cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove it from the heat immediately.
2. Add the chopped milk chocolate to the warm cream and let it sit for a minute to soften. Stir the mixture gently until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
3. Add the softened butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the chocolate mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least two hours, or until it becomes firm enough to handle.
5. Once the mixture has chilled and solidified, use a spoon or a melon baller to scoop out small portions of the chocolate mixture.
6. Roll each portion into a ball between your palms to form the truffles.
7. If desired, you can roll the truffles in cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, or shredded coconut to add extra flavour and texture.
8. Place the finished truffles on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to set.

Now that you have your delicious milk chocolate truffles ready, share them with your loved ones and enjoy the blissful indulgence of National Milk Chocolate Day!

Get Your Chocolate Fix on The Pantiles

If you’d rather avoid the kitchen on this choc-tastic day, why not head to one of The Pantiles’ many eateries and bars to indulge? Sip into a cream-ladden hot chocolate at Framptons, tuck into a Chocolate Cremeux with coconut macerated pineapple and strawberry ice cream at Kumquat or cool down with some Chocolate Bourbon Gelato from Sweet Fifteen!

See a list of all our cafes, restaurants and bars.