3 Ways to Boost Coffee Sales with Pastry Pairings

Thoughtful pairings that enhance the customer experience—and your bottom line.

For many coffee shops, food is more than just an add-on—it’s a powerful tool for deepening the customer experience and increasing sales. While elaborate kitchen setups may be out of reach for most cafés, strategic pastry pairings offer a simple, low-effort way to create value and boost ticket averages.

Here are three practical ways to use pastries to elevate your coffee program:

1. Curate Signature Pairings

Pairing specific pastries with certain coffee drinks helps guide customer choices and creates a memorable experience.For example:

• A buttery almond croissant can balance the bold intensity of a cappuccino.

• A savory ham and cheese croissant pairs well with a cold brew, offering a satisfying contrast.

• A rich chocolate croissant can be a perfect complement to a double espresso.

Even just one or two house pairings listed on your menu or shared on social media can encourage customers to try something new—while giving your brand a unique flavor profile.

2. Feature Seasonal Flavor Matches

When launching a new seasonal drink, think beyond the cup. Is there a pastry that can match or contrast the drink’s flavor?

A few ideas:

• A vanilla bean scone with a lavender latte

• A citrus-glazed mini pastry alongside a honey oat milk cold brew

• A spiced bun with a pumpkin latte in the fall

Featuring these seasonal pairings on signage or specials boards adds visual interest and encourages customers to try both items together.

3. Lean into Morning Habits

Morning customers are often looking for quick, no-fuss options they can eat on the go. Offering mini-sized pastries near the register makes it easy for them to grab something without waiting in another line or making a big decision.

Consider simple pricing strategies like:

• “Add a mini for $2”

• “Coffee + pastry combo”

• “Three minis for $5”

These quick wins can make a noticeable difference in daily sales—and feel like a thoughtful touch to the customer.

Whether you're a third-wave café or a cozy neighborhood spot, adding intention to your pastry offerings doesn’t have to be complicated. A few thoughtful pairings can elevate your service, improve your coffee program, and keep customers coming back for the full experience.