Ahead of National Pastry Day, we've revealed the most popular pastries in North America.
Flour, sugar, and butter, filled with either chocolate, fruits, nuts, or cream. Regardless of their shape or filling, pastries are popular all over the world and are enjoyed by people of all ages. They are delicious, comforting, satisfying, and a great way to celebrate special occasions or to simply treat yourself to something sweet.
Because pastries are so popular, it’s no wonder that there is a national day dedicated to them. National Pastry Day is celebrated on December 9th. It is a day to enjoy all of your favorite pastries and to discover new ones. But which are the most loved pastries across North America?
Donuts Reign Supreme as America’s Favorite Pastry
According to new data from online slots site Betway, donuts are America’s favorite pastry, with over a third of Americans saying it’s their top choice. The study, which analyzed Googles search data for popular pastries, also found that the Northeast is the region that loves donuts the most.
If there’s one pastry that unites the nation, it’s the classic donut. With a staggering 817,300 total annual Google searches across the country, donuts reign supreme as the go-to indulgence. Whether glazed, frosted, or filled, Americans from Alabama to Wyoming share a collective love for these circular delights. In fact, donuts hold the top spot in 47 out of 50 states, showcasing their universal appeal whereas brownies are a close second, securing the top spot in Arkansas, Oregon, and West Virginia.
The bustling East Coast stands out with a penchant for diverse pastries with New Yorkers and New Jerseyans having a sweet tooth for eclairs, cannoli, and the innovative cronut. On the other hand, a preference for strudel and baklava prevails in Massachusetts and Connecticut, showcasing a taste for more traditional and culturally inspired pastries.
Looking at the pastry preferences in the South, Texans display an eclectic taste, with a surprising affinity for cinnamon buns, brownies, and even the avant-garde cronut. True to its Creole roots, Louisiana’s love for beignets is evident, making it a regional favorite along with a fondness for praline-infused pastries. Lastly, the Midwest boasts a diverse range of favorites. Illinoisans lean towards cream puffs and cannoli, while Michiganders prefer Kringle and bear claws.
A Sweet Symphony: Unwrapping Canada’s Pastry Preferences
Each city displays distinct preferences, from Calgary’s muffin fascination to Edmonton’s love for Danish pastries. Based on the analysis, croissants are the most-searched pastry in all cities, showcasing their widespread popularity. Montreal exhibits a broad interest in various pastries, reflecting the city’s multicultural influences.
As we journeyed through the sweet symphony of North American pastry preferences, it became clear that the nation’s love for pastries is as diverse as its people. From the timeless appeal of donuts to the regional nuances of beignets and cronuts, each region has a unique preference for sweet pastries.
Methodology:
All Google search data is sourced using Google’s keyword planner and all data is correct as of 12.01.2023.