What South Africans Are Baking In 2023

Remember when everyone was baking banana bread? Or those friends who got super into sourdough starters? Here, we look at the most popular baking trends of 2023 to inspire your next baking projects.

The past few years have seen food trends ranging from a return to nostalgia and inclusive baking (accommodating vegan and allergen-friendly) to celebrating local (using more indigenous or seasonal ingredients) and sustainability in baking (reducing food waste).

So, what’s trending in 2023?

2023 Baking trend 1: retro revival

Just as fashion has been swept up with ’90s nostalgia (jelly sandals and the like), so too has the baking world. Deep dive into your mother’s or grandmother’s cookbooks for inspiration and add your own modern flair to keep things fresh.

This trend is all about rediscovering your childhood favourites. Looking for some recipes? Try this macaroni cheese gratin or this bread pudding – but with an orange chocolate update!

2023 Baking trend 2: make it pink!

Adding to that ’90s nostalgia has been a resurgence of pink, pastels and prettiness! Pink icing, pink sponge and all the pastel-dreamed trimmings. Want to jump on the trend, but in a more subtle way? Try this marshmallow cake recipe using only pink marshmallows.

2023 Baking trend 3: bite-sized

Mini treats are in! Hosting a tea party or a gathering at home? Think high tea and make an array of mini treats – mini pastries, mini cupcakes and bite-sized desserts. Try this recipe for mini lemon meringue pies or these koeksister bites.

2023 baking trend 4: support local

The trend to focus on sustainability – and thus local ingredients, flavours and seasonality – has led to an interest in what is intrinsically South African. In other words, local has never been more lekker! Cafes and eateries are offering South African bakes and treats: crunchies, malva puddings, melkterts and more. Check out these classic South African bakes and breads . Feeling inspired to get baking right away? Try this bobotie recipe or these boerenkaas and biltong scones.

2023 Baking trend 5: DIY baking kits

Interestingly, there has been a rise in the popularity of DIY baking kits. This trend is all about inclusivity and making baking easier for beginners. Have you tried the SASKO baking kits? Check out the range of products here. A great gifting idea for a new baking friend is to pack a DIY box with your favourite pantry staples, fun accessories and decorating ingredients to help get them started. We have the starter kit to help you!