Find a Job You Really Want In
The Most Popular Christmas Treat in Every State (Spoiler: It’s Looking Pretty Cheese-y)
Christmas remains one of the most cherished federal holidays in the United States, celebrated by families and friends with various traditions. While many essential workers may be on duty during the festivities, the majority enjoy a well-deserved day off to celebrate with loved ones. The holiday season is synonymous with gift-giving and, notably, indulgent treats. From delightful Christmas fudge to delectable cakes and an array of cookies, the culinary aspect of Christmas cannot be overlooked.
This festive season has us wondering: what are the go-to treats in each state? Are some regions more inclined towards trifle than others? Is anyone particularly obsessed with cheesecake? To find out, we analyzed Google search trends to uncover each state’s favorite Christmas treat.
The findings? A surprising love for cheesecake across the country!
Most Interesting Findings
- Nine states indulge in cheesecake during the winter holidays.
- Twenty states prefer cakes, while twelve lean towards candy, and ten states have a cookie obsession.
- Pennsylvania and Hawaii stand out with unique favorites like gingerbread cheesecake and Oreo cheesecake.
- Missouri is on the hunt for “vegan Christmas cookies” more than any other state, leaving California in the dust.
- Wyoming and Arizona enjoy their treats in liquid form, with hot chocolate and eggnog reigning supreme.
- New Jersey’s preference for chocolate Santas elevates it above typical candy store offerings.
- North Dakota is a steadfast fan of the underrated peanut butter blossoms.
- Christmas pudding has a special place in the hearts of Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Tennessee.
- The Carolinas remain loyal to the often-maligned fruitcake.
How We Figured This Out
Using Google Trends, we identified which Christmas treats each state searches for disproportionately. We examined over 40 holiday classics, including candies, cakes, and everything in between. By analyzing search volumes, we could highlight the treats that stand out in each region.
For instance, while Wisconsin enjoys a wide array of Christmas classics, the state’s unusual search interest in Andes mints signifies their popularity there, making it more searched for than in Maine.
In cases of ties, we selected the dessert with the highest overall search volume. Generally, there is a nationwide surge in interest for fudge, peppermint bark, cheesecake, and gingerbread, yet certain states showcase a preference for more niche treats.
Some creative liberties were taken, such as including hot chocolate as a snack, given its popularity and comforting nature during the winter months.
Our analysis focused on search data from December 2019 to gauge festive interest. While we can’t predict future trends until after Christmas, it’s safe to say that favorites like candy canes and Christmas fudge will likely endure through the years.
Eat Up, You Need Your Strength for Job Hunting
The holiday season from Thanksgiving to New Year’s often sees a dip in job hunting activities. Many people prefer to avoid the added stress of job interviews during this bustling time, and companies commonly postpone hiring until the new year.
So, take this time to unwind, refine your resume, and enjoy an extra Oreo ball. Job hunting season is on the horizon, and this year, you might just unwrap the gift of a job you truly love.
Each State’s Favorite Treat
| State | Treat |
|---|---|
| Wisconsin | Andes Peppermint |
| Idaho | Candy cane |
| Arkansas | Cheesecake |
| Connecticut | Cheesecake |
| Florida | Cheesecake |
| Michigan | Cheesecake |
| Nevada | Cheesecake |
| New Mexico | Cheesecake |
| New York | Cheesecake |
| Ohio | Cheesecake |
| Oklahoma | Cheesecake |
| Delaware | Chocolate chip cookie |
| Vermont | Chocolate chip cookie |
| Illinois | Chocolate Santas |
| New Jersey | Chocolate Santas |
| Maine | Chocolate truffles |
| Massachusetts | Christmas Trifle |
| Rhode Island | Christmas Trifle |
| Kansas | Cinnamon Roll |
| Wyoming | Egg Nog |
| North Carolina | Fruitcake |
| South Carolina | Fruitcake |
| West Virginia | Fudge |
| Colorado | Gingerbread Cake |
| Maryland | Gingerbread Cake |
| Pennsylvania | Gingerbread Cheesecake |
| New Hampshire | Gingerbread man |
| Virginia | Gingerbread man |
| Arizona | Hot chocolate |
| Utah | Jolly Rancher |
| Alaska | M&Ms |
| Iowa | Oreo balls |
| Hawaii | Oreo Cheesecake |
| North Dakota | Peanut butter blossoms |
| Oregon | Peppermint bark |
| California | Peppermint chocolate chip cookies |
| Texas | Peppermint chocolate chip cookies |
| Minnesota | Peppermint kiss cookies |
| Indiana | Pudding |
| Kentucky | Pudding |
| Louisiana | Pudding |
| Tennessee | Pudding |
| Alabama | Red velvet cake |
| Mississippi | Red velvet cake |
| Georgia | Red velvet pound cake |
| Washington | Skittles |
| South Dakota | Sugar cookie |
| Missouri | Vegan Christmas cookies |
| Nebraska | York Peppermint Pattie |
| Montana | Yule Log Cake |

