Sorry Apple Pie, Cheesecake has officially taken the crown as Ireland’s favourite Christmas dessert, according to new research from BWG Foods.
The survey, released to celebrate the launch of the BWG Foodservice Christmas Brochure 2025, reveals that Sticky Toffee Pudding is another firm festive favourite, while Apple Pie finds itself at the bottom of the dessert table this year.
When it comes to the main event, Turkey and Ham still reign supreme, but younger diners are looking to shake things up with over half of Gen Z say they’d prefer something different on the menu for their Christmas dinner when eating out.
The research also shows that Irish people plan to dine out three times on average over the festive season, making restaurants and hotels a key part of their holiday celebrations.
BWG Foodservice’s new Christmas Brochure is packed with festive favourites like turkey butterfly, whole hams, and G’s Gourmet Cranberry Sauce, plus comforting treats like Apple & Vanilla Strudel. It’s designed to help chefs and hospitality venues create menus that sparkle - from festive sandwiches to playful cocktails.
Commenting on the launch, Ricky O’Brien, BWG Foodservice Director, said: “We’re proud to support our customers with a festive range that reflects current trends and consumer preferences. Our Christmas brochure and product catalogue provides a practical and strategic foundation to help foodservice businesses deliver memorable dining experiences with quality food and drink options for tremendous value. It's a wonderful time of year and it’s all about coming together so we’re delighted to again be supporting local businesses, communities and families in making the most out these special experiences.”
BWG Foodservice works with over 130 Irish suppliers, supporting everything from artisan producers to large-scale manufacturers. Their exclusive Chef’s Kitchen own brand range offers premium quality at great value – which is perfect for festive menus.
About the Research
Conducted by Empathy Research in October 2025, this nationally representative survey of over a thousand Irish adults reveals that Christmas remains a vibrant season for dining out, with the average person planning 3 meals out during the festive period.
Turkey and Ham remains the go-to festive meal when dining out for half of all respondents. Other picks include Beef at 16%, Seafood at 10%, Poultry at 9%, Lamb at 7% and further Vegetarian options at 4%. Those aged between 18–24 were the most likely demographic (55%) to opt for an alternative to Turkey and Ham when it came to the main meal for eating out.
In relation to dessert, Cheesecake reigns supreme, topping the list as the most preferred Christmas treat, with Sticky Toffee Pudding emerging as a consistent crowd-pleaser. The rankings in order include:
- Cheescake
- Sticky Toffee Pudding
- Roulade
- Christmas Pudding Log
- Ice-Cream
- Sorbet
- Profiteroles
- Chocolate Brownie
- Tiramisu
- Apple Pie
