Christmas 2023: Festive flavor trends for cocoa and confectionery

Counting down to Christmas with an advent calendar is a key part of the festive season for many – and a tradition that’s evolving each year. Confectionery manufacturers can use advent as a moment to experiment with new flavors and formulations to create premium calendars that stand out on the shelf.

The global Premium Chocolate market is expected to expand by 8.5% by 2028, according to Market Watch. As a result we’re seeing a growth in premium offerings as manufacturers look to tempt consumers with luxurious choices, such as Italian chocolatier Amedei’s Calendario dell’Avvento, which retails for €65. Meanwhile, others are looking to demonstrate innovation in formulation and respond to growing plant-based demand. H!P’s Oat Milk Calendar is an example of one manufacturer looking to offer consumers a more exciting option this advent.

“The brands that will win this Christmas are those that are re-imagining holiday staples and delivering exciting and more premium products to surprise and delight consumers.” says Naveen.

As the cost of living continues to rise, many consumers may be choosing to spend more time at home. That means home baking is likely to prove a popular festive activity this year, providing families with a fun and affordable way to spend time together over the holiday period, with DIY kits like the Dr Oetker Winter Plum cake mix from Austria to proving popular. 

For some festive baking, our deZaan Black D11B powder is perfect for making indulgent black chocolate and hazelnut cookies. The fudgy and festive cookies pair deliciously with an ice-cold glass of milk, perfect to leave as a treat for Santa.