Posted in Better-for-You on October 17, 2025
Nostalgia is more than a feeling. It’s fast becoming one of the most powerful forces shaping food and beverage innovation. From reimagined desserts to candy-flavored beverages, U.S. consumers are gravitating toward flavors and formats that transport them back in time, with just enough modern flair to keep things exciting.
Today’s culinary nostalgia goes well beyond throwback aesthetics. It taps into emotion, comfort, and memory, while offering restaurants and foodservice operators ample room to innovate.
Retro Treats, Reimagined
Consumers are looking for comfort, and desserts like Baked Alaska and Pineapple Upside-Down Cake are making a comeback. This time they come with bold, unexpected twists and are being revamped for the modern menu, delivering both high appeal and room for differentiation in a crowded category.1 Looking for a nostalgic twist? Check out Tres Leches Cake Cups made with NILLA Wafers, Lava Cake made with Chunky CHIPS AHOY! Cookie Pieces, and Movie Theater Ice Cream Sandwiches made with OREO & SOUR PATCH KIDS.
The beverage world is also getting a nostalgic makeover. Childhood-inspired drinks have seen a 5% increase in consumer awareness and a 1% increase in interest over the past year.2 It’s a small but meaningful signal that consumer curiosity is growing, particularly among younger generations who find joy in these playful throwbacks.
Newstalgia: Where the Past Meets Premium
A major driver of this trend is the ongoing culinary focus of newstalgia, a mash-up of retro flavor cues with modern formats and elevated ingredients. Dirty sodas and elevated takes on desserts that you may have grown up eating are gaining traction, especially in the early “inception” and “adoption” stages of the market lifecycle.2 The result is a wave of menu offerings that feel both familiar and fresh.
Even legacy food chains are leaning in. Taco Bell has revived its cult-favorite Volcano Menu. McDonald’s created buzz with its Grandma McFlurry. These nostalgic nods are not just about menu items, they’re supported by playful marketing campaigns designed to evoke emotional connections with consumers.3
What’s more, it’s not just desserts and drinks. Savory comfort foods are also being elevated for today’s diner. Upscale tater tots, green bean casserole made with premium ingredients, and artfully plated mac and cheese are turning simple staples into Instagram-ready center plates.4
The best part is that this trend transcends age. Gen Z may be discovering dirty sodas and retro salads for the first time while Gen X and Boomers are embracing the familiar flavors they grew up with. Think Buttermilk Cheddar Biscuits made with RITZ Crackers, or Chicken & Dumpling Soup.This cross-generational appeal makes nostalgia an evergreen trend with real staying power.5
Your Moment to Innovate
From classic comfort foods to better-for-you options that don’t skimp on flavor, Mondelēz International combines culinary innovation with beloved brand ingredients to help optimize menus across foodservice segments. Mondelēz Foodservice elevates dessert experiences with innovative offerings like CHIPS AHOY! and OREO variegates, alongside Golden OREO Cookie Pieces, providing versatile and exciting solutions for today’s dynamic consumer preferences.
Want to fuel your menu with bold ideas and breakthrough flavor? Our Culinary Center serves up chef-driven recipes for every daypart, while Our Brands deliver snacking options that keep guests coming back.
Got a menu challenge? Let’s solve it — together. From custom product ideas to trend-forward flavor strategies, our team is ready to help you make your next big move. Share your thoughts and let’s build something unforgettable.
1. Datassential, Midyear Trends 2025, July 2025
2. Datassential, Future of Drink 2024, October 2024
3. Datassential, Datassential 500, June 2024
4. Datassential, Sides, March 2024
5. Datassential, 2024 Trends Report, December 2023
