According to CBA, bakers anticipate celebratory flavours to be popular, especially as the chains of the pandemic start to fall away and the world opens up.
In fact, CBA’s survey found that 38% of its members believe champagne and prosecco flavours to pop, while 34% expect gin & tonic-inspired treats to resonate with lovebirds.
The theme of celebration is not only expected to titillate the tastebuds, but also bring a twinkle to the eye, with Instagram-worthy, visual statement bakes vying for attention.
Over 3 in 4 bakers (76%) predict personalisation to be a top trend, along with bright colours (28%) and decoration (17%).
Firm favourites
Chocolate, as always, remains the iconic Valentine variant, with 48% of the survey’s respondents saying they think dark chocolate will do well with customers. On the other hand, 38% say there will be a bigger lean towards milk chocolate, while 21% see white chocolate coming in as the winner.
Salted caramel is also expected to retain its popularity, according to 24% of CBA’s members.
Florals will play a bigger role in baked goods, along with fruity tones, such as strawberry and raspberry (24%), and blueberry (7%).
The legacy of the pandemic has changed consumer habits, but many are expected to remain, like individual servings (40%), online ordering (31%) and home delivery (24%).
“With the world beginning to open up again, bakers are expecting consumers to be enjoying bakes with celebratory flavours and eye-catching decoration and personalisation this Valentine’s Day,” said Karen Dear, director of Operations, CBA.
“We look forward to seeing the innovative and delicious products our baker members create to meet these trends and please customers.”
