2025 was quite the year when it comes to food trends. From nostalgic desserts making a big comeback to viral dishes we’d never heard of before, the year proved that food culture is constantly evolving thanks to social media and our collective curiosity.
Some of the biggest fads caused supermarkets to sell out of specific ingredients, while others brought old favourites back into the spotlight with a modern twist. So, what exactly were we eating, cooking, and obsessing over in 2025? Let’s take a walk down memory lane.
1. Pistachio
Pistachio emerged as the flavour of the year, appearing in everything from pastries and gelato to spreads and drinks. Its nutty, slightly sweet profile felt both indulgent and sophisticated. The ingredient also benefited from its strong association with viral desserts like pistachio tiramisu and kunafa.
2. Tiramisu
Tiramisu firmly reclaimed its spot as a dessert icon in 2025. From classic Italian versions to pistachio, matcha, and even chocolate-laden twists, the coffee-soaked treat was everywhere. Home bakers and cafés alike embraced the dessert, proving that timeless flavours never truly go out of style.
3. Matcha
Matcha continued its reign well beyond lattes and desserts. In 2025, it found its way into breads, tiramisu, cookies, and even savoury dishes, driven by its vibrant colour and perceived health benefits. Social media played a big role in turning matcha into a lifestyle choice rather than just a drink.
4. Kunafa
This Middle Eastern dessert enjoyed a major glow-up this year. Crispy, cheesy kunafa was reinvented with modern fillings like chocolate, pistachio cream, and ice cream, making it especially popular among younger audiences. Its dramatic cheese pulls and syrupy finish made it a natural star online.
5. Hot Pot
Hot pot continued to dominate group dining in 2025, cementing its place as both a social and culinary experience. Customisable broths, premium ingredients, and endless dipping sauces kept it exciting. It was especially popular among younger diners looking for interactive meals.
6. Banana Pudding
Banana pudding had a viral revival, particularly in its Southern-style form with layers of biscuits, custard, and fresh bananas. The comforting dessert resonated with people craving nostalgia and simplicity. It also became a popular make-ahead dessert for gatherings and celebrations.
7. Cucumber Salad
Sometimes you need to eat an entire cucumber, and thanks to TikTok creator Logan and his endlessly creative recipes, cucumber salad became an unexpected trend. From spicy, garlicky versions to Asian-inspired dressings, cucumbers were no longer just a side dish. The trend proved that even the simplest ingredients can shine with the right flavour combinations.
8. Malatang
Malatang went viral not just for its flavour, but for the experience. The trend of guessing how much a bowl would cost became a social media challenge in itself. Its spicy, customisable nature made it a hit with adventurous eaters.
9. Dubai Chocolate
Dubai chocolate took the internet by surprise in 2025. Known for its rich fillings, luxurious textures, and dramatic break-apart videos, it quickly became a must-try item. The trend highlighted a growing appetite for indulgent, visually striking treats with a premium feel.
10. Ayam Gepuk
Ayam gepuk gained mainstream attention in 2025, winning hearts with its smashed fried chicken and fiery sambal. The dish struck a balance between comfort food and bold flavours. Its popularity reflected a growing appreciation for regional Southeast Asian cuisine.
