Dessert Pairings: What to Bake (and Eat) With Today’s Trending Drinks

Because the Perfect Drink Deserves the Perfect Sweet Treat

From matcha lattes to spicy chai and rich hot chocolates, today’s drink trends are all about bold flavours, comfort, and a little indulgence. And while a great coffee or latte can stand on its own, the right dessert pairing can turn a simple break into a proper moment.

At Jack & Beyond, we believe desserts should complement what’s in your cup -  enhancing flavours, balancing sweetness, and making every sip even better. Here’s our guide to the best desserts to pair with today’s most popular drinks, using some of our favourite bakes.

Matcha Lattes + Light, Creamy Desserts

Matcha’s earthy, slightly bitter notes pair beautifully with soft, creamy desserts that don’t overpower it.

Perfect pairings:

• Vanilla sponge cakes, such as our Strawberries & Cream Layer Cake 

• White chocolate brownies like our Pistachio Blondie 

• Light cupcakes with smooth frosting

Why it works:
The gentle sweetness of vanilla or white chocolate balances matcha’s depth, letting both flavours shine without competing.

Jack & Beyond tip:
A lightly frosted sponge or cupcake makes matcha feel indulgent without being too rich - ideal for an afternoon treat.

Chai Lattes + Spiced Cakes & Brownies

Chai is warming, aromatic and packed with spices like cinnamon, cardamom and clove - making it a dream match for comforting bakes.

Perfect pairings:

• Carrot & Cinnamon cake

• Spiced loaf cakes

• Chocolate brownies with warm undertones

Why it works:
Shared spice notes create harmony, while chocolate adds depth and richness to chai’s fragrant profile.

Jack & Beyond tip:
Our spiced cakes and brownies are perfect for slow sipping and cosy winter afternoons.

Hot Chocolate + Rich Chocolate Treats

When it comes to hot chocolate, leaning into indulgence is the way to go.

Perfect pairings:

• Gooey brownies

• Chocolate celebration cakes

• Chocolate & raspberry desserts

Why it works:
Layering chocolate on chocolate creates a luxurious experience, while fruit (like raspberry) cuts through the richness to keep things balanced.

Jack & Beyond tip:
A brownie and hot chocolate combo is unbeatable for cold days, movie nights, or festive gatherings.

Flat Whites & Cappuccinos + Classic British Bakes

Coffee lovers often prefer desserts that complement rather than overpower their drink.

Perfect pairings:

• Victoria sponge cakes

• Classic vanilla cupcakes

• Mince pies (in season!)

Why it works:
Coffee’s bitterness contrasts beautifully with buttery sponge and gentle sweetness, creating a well-rounded flavour experience.

Jack & Beyond tip:
This is where timeless bakes really shine - simple, nostalgic and endlessly satisfying.

Herbal Teas + Fruity or Citrus Desserts

Light, floral teas pair best with desserts that feel fresh and uplifting.

Perfect pairings:

• Lemon & poppy seed cake

• Raspberry-filled bakes

• Fruit-forward cupcakes

Why it works:
Citrus and berry flavours mirror the freshness of herbal teas without overwhelming delicate notes.

Jack & Beyond tip:
These pairings are ideal for daytime treats or when you want something sweet but not too heavy.

Iced Coffees & Cold Brews + Bold, Indulgent Treats

Cold drinks call for desserts that can hold their own.

Perfect pairings:

• Peanut butter brownies or blondies

• Chocolate banana cakes

• Rich layered cakes

Why it works:
Cold brews highlight nutty, chocolatey flavours, making them the perfect match for bold, indulgent desserts.

Jack & Beyond tip:
This pairing is a favourite for warmer days or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Create Your Own Perfect Pairing

Whether you’re hosting friends, planning a coffee break, or just treating yourself, matching desserts to drinks adds an extra layer of enjoyment. At Jack & Beyond, our range of cakes, brownies, cupcakes and treats means there’s always something to pair perfectly with whatever’s in your cup