Confectionery manufacturers are closing out 2025 with new ranges and modern twists on classics.
And we’re getting a peak at some early 2026 launches.
In this new product development (NPD) roundup, we see how health-conscious consumers remain a priority within the category. This is evident through brands introducing low-sugar, high-protein and free-from options that do not compromise on taste.
At the same time, seasonal limited editions and collaborations are driving excitement and sales opportunities across grocery and convenience channels.
Premiumisation, as well as the look and feel of products, also continues to influence NPD, as brands invest in elevated packaging and social media-friendly formats.
From vegan-friendly holiday bites to indulgent chocolate assortments and nostalgic flavour mash-ups, the category is leaning into trends that resonate with Millennials and Gen Z while maintaining strong heritage cues.
Oreo innovations
Oreo is closing out 2025 with a major NPD push, unveiling nine new products alongside the recently launched Oreo Zero Sugar Cookies. The line-up includes permanent additions and limited-time treats designed to cater to a wide range of consumer tastes.
Available from December, Oreo Muffins bring the brand into the packaged bakery aisle with cocoa-based muffins in twin packs. Also launching are Oreo Cakesters Confetti Cake, featuring birthday cake-flavoured crème between soft confetti cakes, and Oreo Thins Chocolate Ganache, offering a crisp bite with rich ganache-flavoured crème. Oreo Minis Chocolate Creme joins the range in 3oz and 8oz packs, while Oreo Cookie Dough returns as a limited edition from 22 December.
January 2026 sees expanded packaging for Golden Oreo Minis and Oreo Minis Peanut Butter, both now available in 8oz bags.
The month also marks the debut of Oreo Reese’s Cookie – a permanent collaboration combining Oreo chocolate sandwich cookies with Reese’s peanut buttery crème and cookie crumbs.
Grenade Creme Egg
Grenade is introducing a limited-edition Creme Egg Soft Core Protein Bar, available until April 2026.
The 45g bar delivers over 13g of protein, 2g of sugar and is non-HFSS, targeting consumers seeking indulgent yet functional snacks. This marks Grenade’s softest bar format to date, featuring a light protein dough with a yolk-coloured Creme Egg-flavoured filling, coated in milk chocolate.
The launch is positioned to attract new shoppers to the protein category by combining seasonal appeal with convenience. Ideal for on-the-go snacking, between-meeting fuel or post-workout recovery, the bar joins Grenade’s existing range of 14 high-protein, low-sugar bars, all under 250 calories.
UK Retail Sales Director Rachel Austerberry said the innovation “breaks new ground as the first official Creme Egg-flavoured protein product” and is expected to drive sales.
Chocolove Holiday Bites
Chocolove is introducing a festive new format for the 2025 holiday season with Dark Chocolate Peppermint Crème Filling Tree-Shaped Bites. The vegan-friendly treats come in small bags designed for stocking fillers and feature individually wrapped bites made with rich dark chocolate and peppermint oil.
Alongside the seasonal launch, shoppers can find Chocolove’s Raspberries in Dark Chocolate bar, which combines freeze-dried raspberry pieces with smooth Belgian dark chocolate. Two popular salty-sweet bars are also highlighted: Hawaiian Sea Salt in Strong Dark Chocolate, blending 72% dark chocolate with Hawaiian Alaea red sea salt, and Almonds & Sea Salt in Dark Chocolate, pairing semisweet Belgian chocolate with roasted almonds and sea salt.
The new Peppermint Crème bites aim to capture holiday gifting occasions while reinforcing Chocolove’s focus on premium ingredients and flavour variety.
Godiva holiday
Godiva has unveiled a refreshed brand identity alongside its 2025 holiday collection as it prepares for its centennial year in 2026.
The campaign, titled ‘The Most Chocolatey Time of the Year’, introduces updated packaging and reimagined recipes across its core assortments, including the new Gold and Truffles collections. These feature a mix of ganaches, pralines and caramels made with Belgian milk, dark and white chocolate.
The seasonal range also includes a limited-edition chocolate gift box inspired by festive traditions, with five flavours including Almond Embrace, Pistachio Wonder and Speculoos Twist. Each piece combines premium fillings with decorative finishes for added appeal.
Crave Choccy Dodoughs
Free-from snack brand Crave is extending its frozen bakery range with the launch of gluten- and dairy-free doughnuts, Choccy Dodoughs.
The NPD builds on the success of Crave’s original sugar ring Dodoughs.
Developed in response to growing demand for indulgent free-from options, the new variant aims to deliver a rich, chocolatey experience without compromise. Crave says Millennials and Gen Z are driving doughnut consumption, with social media trends influencing their choices.
Choccy Dodoughs can be defrosted quickly for a fresh, fluffy texture, helping to reduce food waste compared to traditional doughnuts.
Founder Rob Brice said the product was designed to “democratise indulgence” for consumers avoiding gluten, dairy or eggs.
