From Ice Cream to Cheese: How Honey Enhances the Coolest Dairy Trends of 2025

Honey serves as an exceptional complement in these indulgent creations. A wide range of flavor profiles can enhance fruit-based ice creams, adding depth and complexity. Alec's Ice Cream's Honey Blueberry Lavender is a velvety, vibrant flavor that combines organic blueberries, a delicate touch of lavender and a swirl of honey. Crafted with organic ingredients from regenerative farms, this ultra-creamy treat offers a unique and refreshing experience. Consumers can indulge in this delightful blend that brings together the sweetness of honey, the freshness of blueberries, and the essence of lavender.

Health-Conscious Choices

The start of the year often brings a focus on nutrition and wellness, with many individuals setting resolutions to improve their diets. The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) highlights that 66% of Americans rely on pre-portioned ingredients to support their health goals, and 50% have switched to yogurt from traditional snacks for healthier choices.

Incorporating honey into dairy products aligns with these health-conscious trends. Honey is a natural source of a wide array of nutrients, including trace amounts of 7 vitamins, 11 minerals, 5 antioxidants and 17 amino acids. When added to yogurts or smoothies, honey not only enhances taste but also provides a source of all-natural energy, appealing to those seeking nutritious and convenient options. Additionally, honey's antimicrobial properties can contribute to the preservation of dairy products, aligning with the demand for longer shelf life without artificial additives.

FAGE’s BestSelf Split Cup Honey is a delightful pairing of golden honey with FAGE's lactose-free, reduced-fat Greek yogurt. Crafted with 100% natural ingredients and non-GMO Project Verified, this protein-rich snack offers 12 grams of protein per serving. With only 2.5 grams of fat and 190 calories per 150-gram container, it's a wholesome choice for those seeking a balance of taste and nutrition. Plus, it’s convenient, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly.

Global Cheese Renaissance

There's a growing appreciation for international and artisanal cheeses, leading to what the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin describe as a "global cheese renaissance." Consumers are showing increased interest in bold and unique flavors, with cheeses like paneer, burrata and queso quesadilla experiencing significant retail sales growth.

Honey can play a pivotal role in this trend by pairing with various cheeses to create sophisticated flavor profiles. Drizzling honey over aged cheeses or incorporating it into cheese spreads can enhance the sensory experience, offering a balance of sweetness and acidity that delights the palate. Such combinations not only cater to the adventurous consumer but also elevate the perception of dairy products as gourmet offerings.

For example, Amanti’s Goat Honey Cheese Wheel is a harmonious blend of creamy goat cheese and honey. Crafted for connoisseurs seeking a unique culinary experience, this 4.5-kilogram wheel offers eye-catching packaging that is a feast for the eyes. The subtle aroma of honey complements the rich, tangy profile of the goat cheese, creating a balanced flavor that delights the palate. Perfect for pairing with fresh fruits, nuts, or artisanal bread, the Amanti Goat Honey Cheese Wheel elevates any cheese charcuterie board or gourmet recipe.

Whether you're crafting the next viral ice cream flavor, a better-for-you yogurt or an artisanal cheese, honey is your perfect partner. It’s a clean label-friendly ingredient and packed with functional perks consumers love. So, mix it, drizzle it or swirl it in—because everything’s better with honey!

Already churned out the next big dairy product for Natural Products Expo West? Let us know at [email protected], and we’ll get a mooove on to your booth for a chat!