National Chocolate Mint Day Quiz

Andes Chocolate Mints are a popular brand of after-dinner mints known for their distinctive rectangular shape. These mints consist of layers of mint-flavored cream sandwiched between layers of chocolate. The result is a thin, rectangular piece that offers a perfect blend of creamy mint and smooth chocolate. Each individual mint is usually wrapped in a foil-like covering, adding to the visual appeal and ensuring freshness. The rectangular shape and the combination of chocolate and mint flavors have contributed to the widespread popularity of Andes Chocolate Mints. They are often enjoyed as a refreshing treat after meals or as a sweet indulgence at any time. The convenience of individual wrapping also makes them easy to share and adds a touch of elegance to their presentation.

In the early 16th century, the Spanish explorer Hernán Cortés played a significant role in the introduction of cacao to Europe. During his explorations and conquests in the New World, specifically in what is now Mexico, Cortés encountered the Aztec civilization. The Aztecs were known for their consumption of a bitter beverage made from roasted and ground cacao beans, mixed with water and various spices. Cortés and his crew observed the preparation and consumption of this cacao-based drink, and upon returning to Spain in the early 1500s, they brought cacao beans with them. The bitter cacao beverage became known in Europe, and over time, sugar and other flavorings were added to make it more palatable to European tastes. This marked the beginning of the European fascination with chocolate. Initially, chocolate was consumed primarily as a beverage among the elite classes. However, as processing techniques evolved, chocolate eventually transformed into various forms, including solid bars and confections. By the 17th century, chocolate houses began to emerge in European cities, where people could gather to enjoy this newly popular treat. The introduction of cacao to Europe in the 16th century laid the foundation for the global chocolate industry that we know today.

Crème de menthe is the mint-flavored alcoholic beverage commonly used for making chocolate mint-flavored treats. Crème de menthe is a sweet and minty liqueur that comes in both green and clear varieties. It is often used in cocktails and desserts to impart a refreshing mint flavor. When making chocolate mint-flavored desserts or beverages, a small amount of crème de menthe can be added to enhance the minty taste without overpowering the chocolate. It's particularly popular in recipes for chocolate mint cocktails, desserts, and candies. Crème de menthe, with its sweet and smooth profile, is the more traditional choice for achieving a balanced and enjoyable chocolate mint combination in various culinary applications.

Frango mints were popularized by Marshall Field's (later rebranded as Marcy's), a department store in Chicago. Marshall Field's was known for its high-quality merchandise and iconic green bags with a distinctive clock tower logo. Frango mints, a type of chocolate mint, were initially created by Frederick and Louis Maillard, but Marshall Field's acquired the recipe in the early 20th century. These mints became closely associated with Marshall Field's and were sold exclusively in their stores. It's worth noting that while Marshall Field's no longer exists as an independent department store (having been rebranded as Macy's in 2006), the legacy of Frango mints continues, and they are still available at Macy's locations.

Haviland Thin Mints are a type of chocolate mint produced by the Haviland company. The Haviland company is known for its confectionery products, and its manufacturing facilities for Thin Mints are situated in Plymouth, Minnesota. The production location is a key aspect of the brand's identity and supply chain. The process of making Haviland Thin Mints likely involves combining high-quality chocolate with mint flavoring to create a thin and minty chocolate confection. The specific recipes and methods used by Haviland in the production of Thin Mints are proprietary to the company. Knowing the production location, such as Plymouth, Minnesota, helps consumers identify the origin of the product and can contribute to the brand's reputation for quality and consistency.  

Junior Mints were first introduced to the candy market in 1949 by the James O. Welch Company. The James O. Welch Company was known for its production of various confectionery products. The candy itself consists of a smooth and creamy mint-flavored center that is coated in a layer of chocolate. The name "Junior Mints" is believed to have been inspired by the Broadway play and later film, "Junior Miss," which was popular at the time of the candy's creation. The mints quickly gained popularity due to their delicious combination of chocolate and mint flavors. In 1963, the James O. Welch Company was acquired by Tootsie Roll Industries, and Junior Mints became one of the well-known products under the Tootsie Roll brand. Since their introduction, Junior Mints have remained a popular and recognizable candy enjoyed by many for their distinctive taste and texture.

York Peppermint Pattie is a well-known confectionery product produced by The Hershey Company. The candy was first introduced in the 1940s by the York Cone Company in York, Pennsylvania. Its popularity grew over the years, and in 1972, The Hershey Company acquired the rights to produce and distribute York Peppermint Pattie. The candy consists of a soft, mint-flavored filling that is coated with a layer of dark chocolate. The combination of cool peppermint and rich chocolate makes it a popular treat, especially for those who enjoy the refreshing contrast of mint and chocolate flavors. Under Hershey's ownership, York Peppermint Pattie has become a staple in the confectionery market and is widely available in various sizes and packaging. It is recognized for its iconic silver foil wrapping and distinctive flavor profile. 

National Chocolate Mint Day is recognized by the US National Confectioners Association. It is an American trade organization that promotes chocolate, candy, gum, and mints, as well as the companies that make these treats. This day, celebrated annually on February 19th, is dedicated to enjoying the delightful combination of chocolate and mint, as officially acknowledged by this confectionery association.

Mint chocolate is often marketed in a non-edible format as cosmetics. This includes a range of beauty products such as lip balms, body lotions, and scented items that capture the delightful combination of mint and chocolate for a refreshing sensory experience.