Baking’s Bold Future: Trends Reshaping Our Industry in 2025
20th April 2025
In this ever-evolving world of baking, staying ahead of trends isn’t just smart – it’s essential for survival. Alongside innovative ideas and initiatives, 2025 has also brought with it a whole host of new challenges – from soaring energy costs and persistent supply chain issues to consumers demanding indulgent yet healthy, plant-based, and affordable options. The industry is once again on the edge of adversity, but these hurdles present a new opportunity for professionals to adapt and thrive.
The key to success in the coming months will be recognising and embracing emerging trends. Rather than simply surviving these obstacles, successful businesses will continue to pivot to align their product offerings with the shifting demands. Those that can innovate while maintaining profitability will come out ahead – and we’re here to navigate the way.
With the first quarter of the year now drawing to a close, we’ve analysed Mintel’s latest market data and trends to identify five key shifts that are shaping the future of baking. So, flour your surfaces and prepare to knead some fresh thinking into your strategy – here’s what’s rising in the world of baking this year.
Protein-Packed Sweet Treats
Remember when ‘healthy dessert’ was an oxymoron? Those days are (thankfully) firmly behind us. High protein claims now feature in 5% of European baking mixes, with brands like FUEL10K leading the charge with non-HFSS protein ranges.
If protein-enriched options aren’t yet part of your product development strategy. You could be missing out on a huge slice of the market.
Plants, Please!
Plant-based isn’t just for burger alternatives anymore. North America launches featuring plant-based claims have doubled to 6% since 2021. But the real innovation? Sneaking vegetables into sweet treats…
Brands are now increasingly incorporating sweet potato, beetroot, and (yes, really) parsnip purees into dessert mixes. Who said getting your five-a-day couldn’t be delicious?
Seasonal Is Sensational
With 17% of North American launches now seasonal (up from 10% last year), limited-edition offerings are proving that FOMO is a powerful sales driver. Consider this your permission to get creative with occasion-based products that give consumers a reason to celebrate – and purchase!
‘Free-From Plus’
In Asia, gluten-free isn’t enough anymore – and this feeling is rapidly spreading across the globe. It needs to come with additional benefits. Brands are highlighting the inherent nutrients in alternative flours, from protein-rich lentils to gut-friendly banana flour. The message is clear: dietary restrictions shouldn’t mean nutritional, taste, or innovative compromises.
At Kara, we’re proud to partner with Genius Gluten Free on our gluten-free offerings which are:
- Able to provide total peace of mind for coeliac customers and those with intolerances
- Frozen for freshness, extending shelf life and reducing food waste
- Delicious and versatile
- Convenient and reliable
- Prepared with care, never compromising on taste
- Perfect for accommodating coeliac customers, appealing to health-conscious diners, and for broadening your menu.
