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On-the-go desserts and decadent cakes popular in Canada: trend report

On-the-go desserts and decadent cakes top the trends list in Canada, according to research firm Technomic.

Technomic’s recently published Canadian Dessert Category Menu Insights report showcases the leading and fastest-growing desserts across Top 200 Canadian chain menus using Ignite menu data.

Here are some key takeaways:

Desserts have varying trajectories at limited-service vs. full-service restaurants

Dessert sales have grown five per cent on limited-service restaurant menus over the past two years. Since limited-service restaurant were already poised for off-premise service when COVID-19 hit, extensive menu cuts were less necessary than at full-service restaurants, where desserts have decreased 16 per cent.

Portable options reign at limited-service restaurants

The leading desserts at limited-service restaurants are ready to be enjoyed on the go. Some of the top desserts on these menus include chocolate chip cookies, brownies and dessert bars – all handheld options. The fastest-growing desserts at limited-service restaurants are similarly portable, with milkshakes/malts showing growth of 13 per cent and cinnamon rolls and sticks up 12 per cent.

Decadent cakes are king at full-service restaurants

Chocolate cake is the leading dessert at full-service restaurants, and carrot cake (up 43 per cent), flavoured cheesecake (up 16 per cent) and plain cheesecake (up 12 per cent) top the list of fastest-growing desserts.

The full report is available here.