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When it comes to holiday gifts, chocolate may be the way to go, according to a new trend report released by Ferrero North America.

After conducting a nationwide consumer survey of individuals ages 18 and up, the Parsippany-based confectionary giant found that 56% of adults would rather give – and receive – holiday chocolates instead of wine.

According to Ferrero, unwrapping presents (75%) and receiving homemade treats (74%) are the two most enjoyable ways to celebrate the holidays. That beats out opening holiday cards, watching holiday movies, decorating Christmas trees and attending holiday parties, the survey said.

Sixty-four percent said they’ll allow themselves to indulge their sweet tooth during the holidays compared with other times of the year. Of the 60% who bake goodies, the majority will make extra so they can have leftovers after the celebrations, Ferrero found.

The questionnaire also determined that 55% of participants would choose dessert over appetizers at the holiday dinner table. Additionally, Ferrero discovered 69% of respondents will repurpose the iconic blue tin for one of the company’s most popular holiday products – Royal Dansk cookies – for storage, crafts or gift packaging.

According to Ferrero, the online survey of 2,002 adults took place Nov. 12-20 by Golin in partnership with Dynata.

‘Proud to be part of those traditions’

Jim Klein, chief customer officer for Ferrero USA, said, “The holiday season is synonymous with celebration and sharing, and our data reveals that sweet treats are a must-have item when it comes to the festivities for most Americans.”

“In particular, we’re seeing different buying occasions for chocolate around the holiday season, whether it’s gifting, hosting, or personal consumption. Ultimately, it’s not just about the celebrations – it’s about creating joyful moments that last far beyond the holidays. We’re proud to be a part of those traditions and offer products that bring extra delight to the season,” he said.

Ferrero – which started in 1946 as a small pastry shop in Alba, Italy – has grown to become a global leader in sweet-packaged foods, including confectionery, biscuits, ice cream and better-for-you-snacking, with over 35 brands sold in more than 170 countries.

Since entering the North American market in 1969, Ferrero now has more than 5,400 employees in eight offices and 15 plants and warehouses in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean.

The company’s portfolio features several seasonal items, like Ferrero Rocher candies, Kinder Joy limited edition holiday eggs, Tic Tac “Naughty or Nice” mints, Nutella holiday glass jars, Mother’s “Reindeer Games” cookies and Fannie May peppermint s’mores mix. There’s also holiday versions of candy bar brands Butterfinger, Crunch and Baby Ruth.

The surveys also say:

• Halloween isn’t just for kids anymore
• This year’s most popular holiday food trends in the U.S.