It’s the month of Valentine’s Day- where the gifting of boxes of chocolate, chocolate-covered berries, and chocolate-based candies is more popular than ever. Despite the “Cocoa Crisis” we reported on in March last year, the Chocolate Market continues to remain the largest category by market share in the Confectionery Industry. Even with increased cocoa prices, consumers don’t seem to have any plans of sacrificing chocolate… why?!
In this report, our team of flavor experts outline a few reasons why chocolate will likely remain at the top of consumer’s grocery lists this year. From surprising flavors to extraordinary global experiences, we are excited to bring you our top projected chocolate flavors to consider for 2025.
Spicing Up Milk Chocolate
Milk chocolate remains the number one-chosen base for new product launches; however, as we go into 2025, consumers expect more from their chocolate choices. A recent Barry Callebaut study found that 66% of global consumers prefer chocolate products with multiple flavors. The same study found that 69% of global consumers believe that rare, out-of-the-ordinary flavors make new chocolate products more enticing to purchase.
This goes to prove our belief that consumers are seeking out unique and adventurous flavors more than ever before. This trend includes chocolates infused with exotic spices like chili, wasabi, and even lavender. These bold combinations provide a delightful twist on traditional chocolate, appealing to those with a taste for the unexpected.
Examples:
- Astor’s Moodibars – reflects feelings (happy, tired, powerful, etc.) with unique flavors
- Chocolove’s Chilis & Cherries Chocolate Bar
- Mandala Chocolate’s Lavender Citrus Chocolate Bar
- Wild Ophelia’s Beef Jerky & Smoked Salt Chocolate Bar
- Standout Chocolate’s Saffron Dark Chocolate Bar
Flavorful Fillings
More now than ever before, consumers expect products that feel indulgent yet offer health benefits. Flavorful fillings are a great way to achieve the demand for healthy indulgence in the Chocolate Category- the possibilities for fillings are endless. With that being said, indulgence is still welcomed in the realm of filled chocolate products, as observed in the viral Dubai Chocolate craze that took the internet by storm in 2024.
Flavorful fillings also offer a dynamic textural experience that can elevate any chocolate bar to feel premium. This Valentine’s Day, Mars Wrigley-owned brand Ethel M Chocolates is set to launch a box of chocolates including those that boast a passionfruit caramel filling, bananas foster filling, and blood orange crème! A few of our favorite more traditional chocolate fillings we offer include:
- Pistachio Filling
- Salted Caramel Filling
- Red Velvet Cake Filling
- Brown Sugar Cinnamon Filling
- Pecan Pie Filling
Chocolate Pairings
Different types of chocolate tend to pair best with different types of flavors. Our team of flavor experts pinpointed the best type to use for 5 of the most popular chocolate flavor pairings used in the industry.
- Chocolate & Fruit: Fruits provide a natural sweetness that complements chocolate.
Dark Chocolate: Pairs well with raspberries or oranges.
Milk Chocolate: Pairs well with bananas or strawberries.
- Chocolate & Nuts: Nuts add a satisfying crunch and buttery flavor to chocolate.
Dark Chocolate: Pairs well with almonds or hazelnuts.
Milk Chocolate: Complements pecans or cashews.
- Chocolate & Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee pair wonderfully with chocolate.
Dark Chocolate: Matches the intensity of a strong, dark roast coffee.
Milk Chocolate: Pairs nicely with the smooth texture of a latte or cappuccino.
- Chocolate & Tea: Botanical flavors found in tea can add a deep complexity to chocolate.
Dark Chocolate: Pairs well with robust black teas like Earl Grey or Darjeeling.
Milk Chocolate: Complements lighter green or herbal teas.
- Chocolate & Wine: One of the most classic pairings, chocolate and wine, can create a harmonious balance of flavors.
Dark Chocolate: Pairs well with full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
Milk Chocolate: Complements lighter red wines such as Pinot Noir or Zinfandel.
