Chocolate has been, and will remain, a popular flavor by evoking feelings of comfort and nostalgia. Recent data from Datassential shows a growing demand for chocolate, with an 87 percent approval rating from consumers and the potential for up to a 10 percent increase in dollar growth, as reported by Nielsen Byzzer.

According to Neilsen Byzzer, chocolate cake sales reported a significant 5 percent increase compared to 2022, surpassing other flavors by a 3:1 ratio. Nielsen Byzzer also finds that as social occasions and celebrations continue, chocolate cupcakes saw a 22 percent increase in dollars compared to the previous year and chocolate flavored donuts outpaced the donut category with 35 percent growth in dollar sales compared to the previous year.

Dawn Foods looks to help bakers leverage the flavor’s appeal to boost sales and profitability through incorporating popular chocolate creations into their offerings. The company provides a range of chocolate-based ingredients, from cake, donut and brownie mixes to icings, chocolate inclusions and chocolate toppers.

Additionally, Dawn Foods offers a comprehensive downloadable Chocolate Mania Inspiration Guide containing ideas such as Frozen Hot Chocolate Pie, Death by Chocolate Cake, Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tart, and seasonal suggestions like the St. Paddy’s Day Chocolate Mint Cupcake and the Big Game Chocolate Donuts.

“In the ever-evolving world of baking, embracing the timeless allure of chocolate is not just a strategic move but a fundamental aspect of meeting consumer cravings and driving business growth,” says Anne Marie Halfmann, director of commercial marketing for Dawn Foods Global.