National Chocolate with Almonds Day

July 8 is National Chocolate with Almonds Day. On this day, indulge in the rich and delicious pairing of chocolate and almonds — a classic combination that has delighted taste buds for centuries. Whether you’re snacking on chocolate-covered almonds, enjoying a candy bar, or baking a dessert, this is the perfect day to celebrate your sweet tooth.

History

The origins of National Chocolate with Almonds Day remain unclear, but it’s recognized and celebrated across the U.S. The earliest known American recipe for chocolate almonds appeared in 1742, printed in William Parks’ edition of The Compleat Housewife, the first cookbook published in the United States. While it included just one chocolate recipe, it reflected the growing popularity of chocolate at the time, especially among the wealthy.

The union of chocolate and almonds dates back to the 18th century, but both ingredients have even older histories. Cacao was used in rituals by ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, and almonds were prized in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. By the late 1800s and early 1900s, chocolate bars with almonds became commercially available in the U.S., securing a lasting place in American confectionery.

Interesting Facts

• About 40% of the world’s almonds are used in chocolate products.
• One ounce of almonds adds over a third of the Daily Value of vitamin E to your chocolate treat.
• The world’s largest almond processing facility is in Sacramento, California, handling 2 million pounds of almonds per day.
• Ferdinand Columbus once mistook cacao beans for shriveled almonds during an encounter with the Mayans.
• The Hershey Company is the leading chocolate producer in North America.

Jokes

• George visits his Aunt Debbie in a retirement home. While she naps, he eats a whole bowl of almonds. When she wakes up, he apologizes, “I’m so sorry, Aunt Debbie, I ate all your almonds!” She replies, “That’s okay, dear. After I suck the chocolate off, I don’t like the almonds anyway.”
• You know you’re a chocoholic if, when the leaves change in the fall, you start gathering Almond Joy bars for the winter.
• What’s hard, brown, six inches long, has two nuts, and can make you gain weight? An Almond Joy.
• A real Almond Joy is the relief an almond feels when it hasn’t been eaten yet.

Quotes

• “All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” – Charles M. Schulz
• “I always leave a box of unsalted almonds in my house. A handful of those are a good snack that should keep you satisfied.” – Jenna Ushkowitz
• “Anything is good if it’s made of chocolate.” – Jo Brand
• “I like almonds as a snack – keeps your energy up but doesn’t fill you up.” – Ina Garten
• “I can’t walk by chocolate without eating it.” – Malin Akerman

How to Take Part

Enjoy National Chocolate with Almonds Day by treating yourself to a candy bar, chocolate-covered almonds, or your favorite dessert. Try something new, like chocolate almond muffins, pavlova, or even ice cream flavors like rocky road. You can also explore chocolate shops, share your favorite treats with friends, or order chocolate and almond products online.

When is National Chocolate with Almonds Day in 2025?

National Chocolate with Almonds Day is observed on July 8 each year.

Observations