Trend Reports & Whitepapers

Cookie Craze: The Rising Cookie Trends in Canada

August 21, 2024

In recent years, desserts have become a rising trend among Canadian consumers. Particularly, the demand for sweet treats and baked goods has seen a significant increase since the post-pandemic period. Not only do desserts contribute to a larger spend per consumer during each visit, but they also account for a substantial portion of foodservice sales, reaching approximately $12 billion CAD.

Let's explore the dessert trends that are currently captivating the taste buds of Canadians and discover why cookies have emerged as a top trending dessert for 2024.

Dessert Trends and Dessert Occasions on the Rise

Canadians are indulging in desserts more than ever before. According to our 2024 Food Trend Report, desserts had an impressive overall heavy visit frequency of 74.5% in 2023¹.

After a challenging period, people are seeking comfort and joy in the form of sweet treats, with a trending favouritism towards cookies.

Cookies: A Sweet Delight for All Occasions

When it comes to desserts, cookies have carved out their own niche in the market. They make up 9.7% of the dessert market, with a remarkable 15.6% spike in popularity among Gen Z consumers¹. What sets cookies apart is their versatility. Unlike other desserts that may be limited to specific dayparts, cookies can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether it's a mid-morning snack, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a late-night treat, cookies are the perfect accompaniment. Their occasion-agnostic nature makes them a go-to choice for people of all ages.

Cookie Trends in Canada

1. Cookies as a Trending Snack

Cookies have also found their way into the snacking realm. While a small proportion of foodservice occasions are reported as snacks, the majority of in-home occasions are considered snacks. This presents a tremendous opportunity for cookies to become the ultimate on-the-go snack. Their handheld nature and delicious flavours make them an ideal choice for those looking for a quick and satisfying treat throughout the day.

2. Embracing Global Flavours

Canadians are becoming more adventurous in their dessert choices, seeking out global flavours when eating desserts out-of-home. Flavours like Matcha, Ube, Lychee, Guava, and Cardamom have gained popularity, reflecting the growing influence of multicultural palates in the dessert category. To cater to this trend, why not try baking Ube cookies or experimenting with other global spices or ingredients? These unique and exciting cookie variations will surely captivate the attention of your customers and keep them coming back for more.

3. Shareable Dessert Moments

While some diners may prioritize the main course and skip dessert, there is still a desire for a touch of indulgence without breaking the bank. This is where shareable desserts, such as cookie pies, come into play. They offer a delightful and affordable indulgence that satisfies the sweet tooth without overwhelming the budget.

Elevate Your Cookies with Nestlé Professional

To take your cookies to the next level, consider our line of branded spreads and inclusions. They can easily elevate the your cookie offerings by providing new flavours, textures, and the brands your customers know and love.

The information presented here offers a general industry perspective and may not directly apply to your specific business operations. Consult with the appropriate subject matter experts before making any business decisions.

1. 2024 Ipsos.® FSM FOODSERVICE MONITOR