“In 2020, we foresee greater acceptance and growth of tropical and exotic citrus flavors including mango, passionfruit, yuzu, calamansi, mandarin, clementine, and bergamot,” says Paula Labine, marketing director at ADM. “Botanicals and florals such as hibiscus, basil, lavender, basil, thyme, and rose are emerging as well—part of a wider acceptance, especially when paired with mainstream flavors consumers already know and love.”

Ingredients such as yuzu (a sour mandarin citrus hybrid long revered in Japan for its distinct flavor and culinary versatility) are being incorporated into dishes, setting the table for more Asian-inspired flavors in the coming year.

Flavors from Asia are especially popular at the moment. Based on research conducted by Tastepoint by IFF, the world is focused on Japan for the next edition of the Summer Olympic Games, resulting in renewed interest in the region and its flavors. Dishes and ingredients from the country are gaining in popularity both in restaurants and retail products. One example of this is this Red Bean Roll, courtesy of Puratos

“It’s fun to offer consumers a baked item they are familiar with but give them the opportunity to experience it in a new and unexpected flavor or color,” says Ted Osorio, corporate chef with General Mills Foodservice. A prime example of a way in which General Mills Foodservice is experimenting with this idea is black sesame butter donuts and black sesame cookies. It provides a moody vibe in these sweet treats and creates a beautiful marbling effect. The flavor has impact and it is visually striking.

Exotic citrus flavors, spicy flavor profiles, and even botanical flavors such as rosemary, hibiscus or lavender are all being used to inspire baked good innovation. A fun example of this courtesy of General Mills Foodservice is Prickly Pear Lime Croissant Muffins.

Consumer desire for clean label continues to grow. People are more aware of what they’re buying and the ingredients they’re consuming, but they still want foods that are appetizing. This is especially important when it comes to desserts and pastries. “(Consumers) want everything from gluten-free to vegan to reduced sugar, but they don’t want to compromise on taste and quality in order to get it,” says Chef Ted Osorio.

According to the Innova New Products Database, in addition to the top 5 flavors globally (milk chocolate, vanilla, dark chocolate, strawberry, and cocoa), the trending flavors in North America are chocolate chip, almond, marshmallow, red raspberry, and cheese.