Cheescake is our dessert of choice at Christmas
What’s your favourite dessert at Christmas dinner? Is it something old-school like trifle or perhaps something fancier like tiramisu?
Well, cheesecake has been revealed as Ireland’s favourite Christmas dessert, according to new research.
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.
Commenting on the launch, Ricky O’Brien, BWG Foodservice Director, said: “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 Chef’s Kitchen own brand range offers is great for festive menus.
Conducted by Empathy Research in October, this survey of over a thousand Irish adults reveals 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, the rankings are:
Cheescake
Sticky toffee pudding
Roulade
Christmas pudding log
Ice cream
Sorbet
Profiteroles
Chocolate brownie
Tiramisu
Apple pie