Panera Bread is a familiar spot for many, often recognized for its bagels, soups, and the popular You Pick Two. Recently, I decided to check out their new winter menu items: Crème Brûlée Bites, Frozen Signature Hot Chocolate, and Signature Hot Chocolate. These treats hit the shelves on November 5, 2025, so I was eager to give them a try.
As a former Panera employee, it felt nostalgic to return as a customer. I chose to order through the app, skipping the line entirely. I wanted my food fresh, straight from the kitchen. So how did these new items stack up? Let’s dive in.
What’s the Buzz About the Crème Brûlée Bites?
The Crème Brûlée Bites come in a pack of three for about $4.99 (or $1.99 each). Each bite is a small cake made with vanilla and topped with a crumbly streusel. However, I found the flavor a bit lacking. The expected hints of brown sugar and caramel were faint. The bites were moist, almost too much so, making them stick to the plate.
While they looked appealing on the menu, they didn’t quite deliver in taste. Each bite has 130 calories, which is decent, but you might be left wanting more flavor.
Exploring the Frozen Signature Hot Chocolate
This one costs $5.99 for a 16-ounce serving. It’s a blend of half-and-half, chocolate syrup, and ice. The drink looks enticing, topped with whipped cream. But the flavor? It’s just a strong chocolate syrup taste.
Instead of a rich hot chocolate experience, it felt more like creamy chocolate milk. The texture is smooth and not overly sweet, making it suitable for a broad audience. But if you prefer something with more complexity, this might not be your go-to.
Unraveling the Signature Hot Chocolate
Panera’s Signature Hot Chocolate, priced at $4.39, is a straightforward mix of steamed milk and chocolate syrup. It’s an uncomplicated drink, but it doesn’t truly stand out. While it serves the purpose for a cozy night, it lacks depth compared to traditional hot cocoa, which often offers a more layered flavor profile.
Overall Impressions
In summary, the new winter item lineup at Panera didn’t leave me excited. While the drinks aren’t disappointing, they don’t offer anything particularly special. They fulfill their roles as chocolatey options, but if you’re looking for something to rave about, you might want to skip these.
Many customers on social media have shared similar sentiments, noting that while these items are fine for a quick treat, they aren’t memorable. If you need a sweet fix, go for the pecan braid instead. It’s a classic fan favorite with a warm, sweet, nutty flavor that far surpasses these new offerings.
As we approach colder months, enjoy what Panera has to offer, but keep your expectations in check. You might find better options elsewhere.
For more insights on seasonal treats, check out Tasting Table to stay informed on food trends and reviews!
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Panera Bread, hot cocoa, brown sugar, Crème Brûlée
