Winter is Coming
Winter is a popular time of year when customers reach for seasonally-themed limited-time-offerings at coffee shops and restaurants nationwide. Whether it’s an office coffee break, a grab ’n’ go en route to a shopping excursion, or a holiday gathering, winter-themed beverages are sure to be seen.
Familiar Favorites
With the unprecedented disruptions of the past two years, it’s no surprise that many customers seek the comfort of quintessential holiday flavors to reclaim a sense of stability amid the chaos.
Hot Cocoa and Apple Cider are perennial favorites that serve up nostalgia in a cup. The arrival of Eggnog on store shelves and menus is another instant signifier that winter has begun. Cafes and chains across the country offer these classics, often with a creative spin. It’s commonplace to see Hot Cocoa given a seasonal boost with the addition of Peppermint syrup, and the comfort of Toasted Marshmallow is not likely to go out of style any time soon. A signature Apple Cider may be elevated with a pop of Cranberry syrup or a burst of Warm Spices. Lattes made with Eggnog flavoring, first popularized in 1986, have remained a winter staple for over three decades.
Trending
While familiarity and nostalgia drive the choices of many customers, others are looking to step beyond the classics, delighting in new creations. The sweeping seasonal popularity of the Pumpkin Spice Latte has shown that customers now expect new seasonal menu offerings as standard practice, and look forward to new innovations with eager anticipation.
This winter, coffee shop trends include holiday cookie-flavored beverages, as well as a curious prominence of cold beverages, which might seem unexpected given the dip in seasonal temperatures. The Sugar Cookie Latte is gaining popularity, and many menus feature variants made with Shortbread syrup or Gingerbread flavoring. Trending cold beverage options include Peppermint Bliss Cold Brews, Eggnog Nitro Lattes, and Eggnog Smoothies, which still maintain seasonal focus.
Many cafes also look to put a holiday spin on drink garnishes and toppings. Crushed candy canes or a cinnamon sugar sprinkle are classic touches. Caramel or white chocolate sauce drizzle and whipped cream are additional essentials for putting the finished presentation on winter beverages.
Houston’s Has It
No matter if your customers are looking to stock up on ingredients for the classics or unique flavors to fuel their creative innovations, Houston’s has a full lineup of seasonal syrups from trusted partners like Torani, Monin, DaVinci, and 1883 Maison Routin.
We’ve got the ingredients for crafting a unique Winter Citrus cider, hopping on board the cookie trend with Gingerbread or Toffee, and keeping it classic with Peppermint and Eggnog flavors.
We’re also your holiday source for cafe sauces, whipped cream supplies, and seasonal Java Jackets for the perfect presentation.
A winter wonderland of seasonal flavors; Houston’s has it.
