The top pastry trends for summer 2024

 The top pastry trends for summer 2024 feature a mix of creativity, sustainability, and global influences. Here are some of the key highlights:

1. Bakery as an Art Form: Consumers are increasingly drawn to high-quality, visually appealing bakery products. Artisan bakers who focus on both taste and aesthetics are gaining popularity on social media​ (Délifrance)​.

2. Customization: Personalized bakery items, from intricate designs to custom messages, are trending. This allows customers to create unique experiences for special occasions​ (Délifrance)​.

3. XL Size Pastries: Oversized pastries like giant croissants and pains au chocolat are making waves on social media, offering a fun and shareable experience​ (Délifrance)​.

4. Upcycling: In response to food waste concerns, upcycling ingredients into new pastries is becoming popular. Examples include using stale bread for crepes and creating croissant puddings​ (Délifrance)​.

5. International Flavors: Pastries inspired by global cuisines are in demand. Italian focaccia, Roman pinsa, and American donuts are among the top picks this season​ (Délifrance)​​ (British Baker)​.

6. Croissant 2.0: The classic croissant continues to be reinvented with new flavors and forms, such as croissant ice cream and croissant-based beignets​ (Délifrance)​.

7. Sustainability: Eco-friendly practices, such as sourcing locally and using plant-based ingredients, are gaining traction. Bakeries are focusing on reducing their carbon footprint and appealing to environmentally conscious consumers​ (Délifrance)​​ (British Baker)​.

Waitrose, for example, has introduced new summer pastries like Cheddar & Hot Honey Pinwheels and Nduja & Mozzarella Calzones, showcasing both British and Mediterranean influences, while also offering visually appealing desserts like Lemon & Lime Daisy Cheesecakes to cater to the social media-savvy consumer​ (British Baker)​.

These trends highlight the evolving preferences of consumers who seek not just delicious, but also aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible pastry options.