Five ways to use toppings to add value, not just decoration

1. Use toppings to dial up flavour without reformulating the base 

Instead of reworking a dough, ice-cream or batter, toppings can introduce flavour in a targeted and concentrated way. A drizzle of caramel, a ChocoDecs® addition or a layer of flavoured inclusions can transform a familiar product into something premium without changing the core recipe. 

It is a faster, more flexible route to innovation, especially when timelines or reformulation constraints are tight. 

2. Build layered texture for a more indulgent experience 

Texture is becoming just as influential as flavour in purchase decisions. Toppings can bring crunch, melt, chew, pop or creaminess. These sensations keep consumers coming back for more. 

Think: 

• Crackle and crunch on soft glazed doughnuts 
• Smooth chocolate drizzle against a crisp biscuit 
• Chewy caramel within a tender brownie 
• Ginger biscuit crumb in a festive cheesecake  

 Contrast creates character. A memorable bite is a repeatable sale. 

3. Increase product value through premium feel finishes 

A topping can elevate perception instantly. Gold shimmer, rich cocoa coatings, real fruit pieces, colourful marshmallows…all these visual signals cue quality before the product is even tasted. 

It is about perceived value rather than just attractiveness. A standard bakery item can step into the “premium” space with a finish that looks crafted, not mass-produced. 

4. Use toppings to tell flavour stories and seasonal narratives 

Consumers buy with emotion as much as taste. Toppings can help products feel festive, nostalgic or trend-led with minimal change to the base. 

• White chocolate igloo for winter 
• Strawberry and cream pearls for Wimbledon 
• Apple and Cinnamon fudge for autumn launches 
• Red, blue and white sprinkles for a 4th of July bake  

A visual story travels quickly across shelves, social media and seasonal menus and toppings make that story unmistakable. 

5. Improve cost control and reduce recipe dependency 

Premium doesn’t always require costly ingredients inside the formula. A decadent outer layer can deliver the indulgent hit without relying on expensive inputs throughout the entire bake. 

For manufacturers, this means: 

• Greater margin flexibility 
• Easier reformulation when costs shift 
• Ability to premiumise without full recipe overhaul 
• Faster anticipation and reaction to market trends  

Toppings are a cost-smart way to do more with less and deliver an authentic sensory experience. 

Toppings should never be an afterthought. When used with intent, they become one of the most effective levers for adding value, improving sensory impact and differentiating products in a crowded market. 

At OV, we believe that what goes on top can change everything. Get in touch with our experts to explore how toppings can transform your products.