It is that special time of year when good fortune and prosperity take centre stage—Chinese New Year! A season filled with joyous family reunions and indulgence in an array of festive delicacies. From Yee Sang, a colourful salad tossed for good luck, to pastries and an assortment of cookies, these festive foods are cherished by families as they come together to celebrate.
One delicacy that shines during the festive season is the iconic pineapple tart. Known for its golden hue and intricate design, this treat symbolises wealth and good luck. Its round or oval shape, reminiscent of coins or gold nuggets, represents prosperity, making it a must-have during the celebrations. Pineapples also known as “ong lai” in Hokkien and Cantonese, which translates to “fortune come,” are widely popular during the Lunar New Year. Giving pineapple tarts as gifts is a traditional way of sharing prosperity and good fortune.
The growing demand for such treats is reflected in the global confectionery market, projected to reach US$30.18bn in revenue by 2025, with an annual growth rate of 6.94% (CAGR 2025-2029)3. As a key player in this market, China leads in confectionery revenue, with an impressive US$89bn expected in 2025, showcasing the global demand for sweet treats during celebrations.
The history of pineapple tarts traces back to the Portuguese pastry pastel de nata. Over time, this pastry was infused with local flavours, creating a distinctively unique treat. The Peranakan communities in Malaysia played a significant role in popularising these tarts, blending European baking techniques with Southeast Asian ingredients1. Over time, pineapple tarts have evolved into a cherished festive delicacy, especially during Chinese New Year.
While traditional pineapple tarts remain a crowd favourite, modern twists on this classic treat are gaining popularity with innovative ingredients and global influences2.As tastes evolve, bakers and home chefs experiment with new ingredients, offering unique flavour combinations and contemporary presentations.
Add a modern twist to your tarts this Chinese New Year by incorporating FoodCraft Frozen Berries – Blackcurrant, Blueberry, Raspberry, and Strawberry, into the tart filling. These vibrant, antioxidant-rich berries can be blended into a refreshing, colourful jam filling, while also providing a burst of flavour on top of the tart.
The combination of mixed berries’ bold tartness and sweetness creates a uniquely delicious jam with stunning visual appeal. This twist not only elevates the flavour profile but also provides a nutritious boost, as berries are packed with antioxidants, fibre, and vitamin C.
FoodCraft Frozen Berries offer the perfect balance of taste and health benefits, making them an ideal addition to your pineapple tarts. With their rich flavour and vibrant colour, they transform this classic treat into a festive indulgence that enhances both its appearance and nutritional value. Food manufacturers can take inspiration from this innovative twist, offering a unique and healthier option that adds a fresh spin to this Chinese New Year.
Looking to innovate your festive products? Get in touch with us for premium ingredients and tailored solutions for your food business.
