When it comes to Christmas, we are, as consumers, in a far more indulgent mood. Treating is growing as a consumer occasion out of home, and over the festive period this treat mentality will certainly increase as we get in to the Christmas spirit.
So What are the Christmas trends we can look forward to?
For the most part, value and quality will remain big influences this Christmas, after a challenging year consumers are still mindful of spending money but there is far more optimism around Christmas 2024. New research has revealed that seven out of 10 people plan to spend the same or more this year than 2023, and – especially good news for bakery – 29% expect to spend more on food and drink .
Read on for our tips to boost your Christmas bakery sales in 2024.
Serve up Success in Multiple Formats
Individual treats which can be enjoyed relaxing alongside a much-needed coffee or on-the-go during a busy Christmas shop will have high appeal. Equally, party platters or show stopping cakes and puddings that can take centre stage will prove winning formats when consumers are planning their Christmas gatherings.
Grab and Go (Christmas shopping!)
For on-the go, convenience is key. Cupcakes, slices and anything mini are the order of the day. Buns too have grown in popularity thanks to Cinnamon Buns becoming a TikTok sensation and we’re predicting these to be in demand again in the run up to Christmas with festive foodies.
Research from Lumina has found that 44% of Food-To-Go consumers would consider themselves “health conscious” , so even at Christmas there will be demand for better-for-you bakes, including sugar-free, gluten-free and plant-based cakes to appeal to those on alternative diets. At Kluman & Balter, we have cake mixes to suit a range of preferences from eggless to sugar free that guarantee a great-tasting and high-quality result every time.
Nostalgic Flavours
Nostalgia is at the heart of Christmas, so you don’t need to stray too far from Christmas classics to make sales, but you can certainly be innovative with flavour and play with shape!
At Christmas there’s no such thing as too much spice, and ultimately the top flavour trend will always be Christmas Spice. Cinnamon, cloves, allspice, ginger, cardamom and nutmeg are all core flavours that will elevate any bake with an aromatic flavour that will add to the nostalgia consumers are looking for.
With this in mind, you can give their best-selling and most popular bakes a festive makeover when it comes to flavours. Whether it’s timeless gingerbread brownies, Christmas spice cupcakes or mince pie cookies! Don’t be afraid to dip into classic or retro flavours for inspiration, from black forest and tiramisu to peppermint and chocolate orange – any recipe can be given a festive twist that consumers will love.
Equally there are flavours that have established themselves as ‘mainstream- alternatives’ to traditional flavours with salted caramel now firmly part of the festive scene. Salted caramel works brilliantly across a wide range of bakes from Christmas Cake to Yule Logs and is a delicious alternative to traditional fruits and chocolate.
Not everyone loves chocolate or has a sweet-tooth, and so lemon-based recipes will have high appeal, with the zesty flavour of the sour fruit softening the sweetness of any bake.
Making it Extraordinary: Introducing Kluman & Balter’s New Christmas Cake Mix
A traditional English Christmas Cake is rich and decadent. It’s packed full of flavour, aromatic spices, and zesty fruit. It’s a classic and timeless favourite. This year, we’ve released an all-new Christmas Cake Mix, made with you in mind.
Designed to perfectly accompany mixed fruits – think sultanas and cherries soaked in Cointreau, or even orange juice, our all-new cake mix ensures a delicious tasting bake, every time, complete with a velvety texture and luxurious feel worthy of celebrations.
If you need help ordering this Christmas, get in touch with our friendly sales team!
[1] Lumina Intelligence, December 2023
[1] Lumina Intelligence Eating & Drinking Out Panel 52WE 31/12/2023