What’s for dessert? In recent years cupcakes, cake pops and macarons have made their way to the trendy dessert list. What’s next? Here’s a list of six dessert trends that have started the year strong.
Éclairs
The traditional éclair is an oblong pastry filled with cream and topped with icing, but the possibilities are endless. The éclair is on this year’s dessert list as it allows the utmost in customization. Fill éclairs with virtually any ingredient of your choice. From savory to sweet, the éclair is a blank canvas.
If you look at pastry cases around New York City, you’ll most likely notice that éclairs are found in most of them. Late last year, Toronto’s first éclair-only patisserie, Nugateau, opened its doors, proving this trend is on point.
Sampler Sizes
Why choose one when you can try them all? We’ve seen small desserts make their mark in recent years (think macarons and cake pops) and it doesn’t look like the trend is going anywhere. Mini-desserts like cheesecake bites can be found in supermarket freezers as well as on the menu of many fine dining restaurants.
Free From Desserts
Consumers are more aware of what goes into their food than ever before. Whether they’re omitting ingredients due to allergies, sensitives or a lifestyle change, consumers are demanding ‘healthier’ desserts such as avocado-based chocolate cake or almond-flour shortbread cookies.
Alcohol Infused
Although liquor infused desserts aren’t new, they’re swiftly gaining in popularity. Dessert favorites like ice cream, cupcakes, pastries, and even fruit are getting enhanced with the addition of alcohol like wine, liquors, and even beer.
Hybrid Desserts
If you love cake and pie, you have to try the piecaken. If you love cookies and brownies, there’s the cookie brownie. Hybrid desserts allow creativity to flow while combining two or more desserts into one. After all, two desserts are always better than one.
Locally Sourced
Another trend that is taking over the food industry as a whole is locally sourced products. Consumers are looking for desserts made with ingredients from a local farm (think fruit like peaches, strawberries, and apples) or facility. Many consumers care about their communities and are willing to spend a little bit extra to support local farmers.
From alcohol-infused and vegan desserts to rich and savory éclairs, 2016 desserts are sure to please a wide range of taste buds.