NATIONAL CHOCOLATE-COVERED CASHEWS DAY
National Chocolate-Covered Cashews Day is observed each year on April 21st. Not unlike other nuts, cashews and chocolate get along well together. Of course, chocolate lovers savor the combination of nutty crunch and creamy, rich chocolate.
The cashew is a tree from the family Anacardiaceae. Its English name comes from Portuguese for the fruit of the cashew tree “caju.” Originally native to Northeastern Brazil, cashew trees are now widely grown in tropical climates for their cashew fruit and nuts.
With leaves arranged spirally and a leathery texture, the evergreen cashew tree grows up to 32 feet tall. It also often grows with an irregularly shaped trunk. The buds produce small flowers that start pale green and turn reddish, each having five slender, acute petals.
Surprisingly, the cashew nutshell is toxic, so producers shell the cashew before selling it to consumers. While many people enjoy the cashew nut for its delicious buttery flavor on its own, adding chocolate makes it even more enjoyable. It makes a great gift during the winter holidays. However, people enjoy chocolate-covered cashews all year long.
HOW TO OBSERVE #ChocolateCoveredCashewsDay
- Celebrate with a handful of chocolate-covered cashews.
- They make terrific party snacks. Add them to trail mix or keep a dish of them by your desk to ward off the mid-day munchies.
- Share your favorite recipes and bring the finished product to share.
- We even have a recipe for you to try.
- Use #ChocolateCoveredCashewsDay to share on social media.
NATIONAL CHOCOLATE-COVERED CASHEWS DAY HISTORY
National Day Calendar continues to research the origins of this chocolate and nut holiday.
Chocolate Covered Cashew FAQ
Q. How long do cashew trees live?
A. On average, a cashew tree can live up to 60 years, but some live even longer. According to Guinness World Records, the world’s largest cashew tree is estimated to be over 100 years old.
Q. How many years does it take for cashew trees to reach maturity and begin producing nuts?
A. A cashew tree begins producing around three years after its planted, but peak, harvestable production may take up to 8 years.
Q. Does chocolate make a good gift?
A. Yes! You can give a variety of chocolate, too. That way you’re more likely to give someone their favorite kind. However, please remember to not give dark or milk chocolate to someone who is allergic to it. White chocolate is the safer option.
Q. Can you make milk from cashews?
A. Those with lactose intolerance, milk allergies, or are vegetarian or vegan rely on nut milk for nutrition. Some people prefer the flavor, too. Cashew milk is another option to add to the growing list of available nut and grain milk out there. You can even make it at home.
