Pastry and Chocolate Trend Predictions for the 2024 Festive Season
Pastry and Chocolate Trend Predictions for the 2024 Festive Season
The Festive Season is a time to go all-out and treat others and ourselves to something special. This year, customers are leaning into luxury while striving to create a balance between indulgence and responsible consumption (guess what—they can have both!). Whether you're thinking about modernizing your classic items or going in a bold new direction, our chefs have inspiration for you!
Panettone
This Christmas bread from Italy has a worldwide following. It’s decidedly more-ish, and the appeal for customers is in its luxurious indulgence. Adding chocolate makes this holiday favorite truly special.
Luxury Hot Chocolate
The festive season is a time to go all-out, and even though customers may be pulling back on spending for staple items, when it comes to celebrations, they’re willing to splurge. Using real chocolate or high-quality cocoa (sustainably grown, of course!) brings this winter staple up a notch, making it the perfect little treat on a frosty day. Don’t forget to offer non-dairy options!
Ginger
Long included on the standard list of Autumn/Winter spices, ginger is becoming a star in its own right. Maybe it’s because of its health halo or its presence in many traditional global desserts. Whatever the reason, ginger is hot!
Modern Takes on Holiday Classics
Traditional Christmas pudding, chocolate-oranges, egg nog, and mulled wine are all traditional Christmas flavors that can be easily upgraded with a simple garnish or new format.
Free-From Options
Today’s customers are looking for free-from versions of their favorites, and finding ways to create dairy-free or low-sugar versions of your holiday best-sellers is a surefire way to gain loyal fans. Purchasing for others increases during this time of year, and “in the four weeks leading up to Christmas, we observe a 15% rise in sales of free-from bakery items compared to the average four-week period.” (Emma McKay, Genius Foods)
Gifting
In December 2023, food industry publication “The Grocer” noted that while sales of some luxury food items were lagging, buying those items as gifts was on the rise. While many people will put off treating themselves when adhering to a strict budget, treating others is another matter. An increased sense of connection and community post-COVID has directly impacted gifting and sharing, making us eager to include friends and family in our celebrations.
Don’t forget color!
According to Confectionery News (20 Sept 2024), “Consumers seek indulgent treats that mirror their personal values, and color is a key aspect of this.”
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