National Bittersweet Chocolate Day, celebrated on January 10, is a day to honor the unique taste of bittersweet chocolate. Known for its higher cocoa content—usually around 70%—bittersweet chocolate has a darker, richer flavor than semi-sweet chocolate, with less sugar to soften its naturally intense taste. This makes it a favorite among dark chocolate enthusiasts and those looking for a less sweet option in their desserts.
Did you know there are over 75 chocolate-related days celebrated each year? Each chocolate type also has its own national day:
- World Chocolate Day on July 7
- National Milk Chocolate Day on July 28
- National Dark Chocolate Day on February 1
- National White Chocolate Day on September 22
What is Bittersweet Chocolate?
The defining characteristic of bittersweet chocolate is its cocoa percentage, which lies between semi-sweet and true dark chocolate. While semi-sweet chocolates can range from around 54% to 70% cocoa, bittersweet varieties usually hover closer to 70%, though brand variations can make it tricky to distinguish the two. This higher cocoa content gives bittersweet chocolate its distinctive, slightly gritty texture and astringent taste that may even leave your mouth feeling a bit dry.
Bittersweet chocolate is widely used in baking, where its bold flavor complements recipes without overpowering them with sweetness. It’s a go-to choice for chocolate enthusiasts who enjoy the complexity of cacao and appreciate the subtle flavors that emerge when sugar takes a back seat. From enhancing brownies and ganaches to creating deep, rich sauces, bittersweet chocolate is a valuable ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.
When is National Bittersweet Chocolate Day Celebrated?
On National Bittersweet Chocolate Day, observed each year on January 10, take a moment to enjoy this chocolate in all its forms—whether in a dark chocolate bar, a homemade dessert, or a warming cup of hot chocolate with an added layer of depth.
If you want to mark your calendar for future celebrations, here’s when National Bittersweet Chocolate Day will fall over the next several years:
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2024 | January 10, Wednesday |
| 2025 | January 10, Friday |
| 2026 | January 10, Saturday |
| 2027 | January 10, Sunday |
| 2028 | January 10, Monday |
| 2029 | January 10, Wednesday |
| 2030 | January 10, Thursday |
Fun Facts About Bittersweet Chocolate
There’s more to bittersweet chocolate than meets the eye! Here are some fun and lesser-known facts:
- Bittersweet chocolate has fewer additives than milk chocolate, meaning it’s often a healthier option when consumed in moderation.
- The high percentage of cocoa solids in bittersweet chocolate makes it a good source of antioxidants, which can support heart health.
- This type of chocolate pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes. Ever tried bittersweet chocolate with sea salt or chili peppers? The combination can be surprisingly delicious!
- Some of the best chocolate chip cookies are made with bittersweet chocolate, as the lower sugar content enhances the overall balance of the dessert.
Ways to Celebrate National Bittersweet Chocolate Day
Looking to make the most of National Bittersweet Chocolate Day? Here are some fun and easy ways to celebrate:
- Bake your favorite bittersweet chocolate dessert: From brownies to cakes, bittersweet chocolate can elevate any recipe with its rich flavor. Try your hand at making chocolate mousse, bittersweet truffles, or a decadent flourless chocolate cake.
- Explore new flavor pairings: Bittersweet chocolate pairs beautifully with fruits like raspberries, oranges, and even figs. Experiment with creating your own chocolate and fruit combinations.
- Make a savory dish with chocolate: Bittersweet chocolate isn’t just for desserts! It’s an excellent addition to savory recipes, especially in traditional Mexican mole sauce or even a rich beef stew.
Whatever you choose to do, National Bittersweet Chocolate Day is the perfect excuse to enjoy this delicious treat in all its forms!
Before You Go:
We have many more national days lists for you to explore.
- Food-related national days: complete list of national food days, pasta & noodles days, vegan & vegetarian days, mushroom days, ice-cream days, pizza days, coffee days, chocolate days, wine days, alcohol & drinking days.
- Non-food national days: National Days Calendar 2025 (check out the printable calendars in my Etsy shop), National Days for Teachers, and a wide array of special lists such as cat days, dog days, animal days, cleaning & organizing days, book days, music days, family & relationships days, national days for women, stationery days and even Harry Potter days.
- Country-specific national days: Australian national days, more coming soon.
