Ferrero North America, part of the global sweet-packaged food company the Ferrero Group, which makes Ferrero Rocher, Nutella, Kinder, Royal Dansk and other holiday favorites, has released new survey findings about adults’ habits around the holidays.

The survey reveals how consumers intend to indulge more this holiday season, prioritizing chocolate over other treats as they savor the joy of holiday baking, gifting and creating festive experiences.

Some of the key findings from the survey include:

  • 56 percent of adults prefer to gift and to receive holiday chocolates over wine
  • Adults say unwrapping presents (75 percent) and receiving homemade cookies or sweet treats (74 percent) are the two most enjoyable ways to celebrate the holidays, more than receiving holiday cards, watching holiday movies, decorating their Christmas tree and attending holiday parties among others
  • 64 percent of adults allow themselves more treats during the holiday season than at other times of the year
  • 60 percent of adults will bake a treat for the holidays, with just under 70 percent of that group buying candy to mix into their recipes
  • 57 percent of adults bake extra holiday treats so they can have leftovers after the celebrations
  • 72 percent of adults said that they would rather receive chocolate or candy in their stockings instead of gum
  • 55 percent of adults said if they could only choose one to go with their holiday meal, that they would choose dessert over appetizers

“The holiday season is synonymous with celebration and sharing, and our data reveals that sweet treats are a must-have item when it comes to the festivities for most Americans,” says Jim Klein, chief customer officer, Ferrero USA. “In particular, we’re seeing different buying occasions for chocolate around the holiday season, whether it’s gifting, hosting or personal consumption. Ultimately, it’s not just about the celebrations – it’s about creating joyful moments that last far beyond the holidays. We’re proud to be a part of those traditions and offer products that bring extra delight to the season.”