Gingerbread cookies have emerged as the undisputed champion of holiday baking across the United States, according to a recent analysis of sales data from retail giant Target. The company’s comprehensive review, which examined cookie purchases nationwide between November 1 and December 6, 2025, identified gingerbread as the top choice in a significant majority of states.

This festive favorite secured its top spot by dominating sales in a remarkable 76 percent of U.S. states. Gingerbread cookies proved to be the most sought-after treat from the Midwest to the Southern regions, capturing the palates of consumers in 38 different states. Notable states where gingerbread reigned supreme include California, Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Arizona, Ohio, Indiana, Oregon, Washington, Utah, Colorado, and Nevada.

While gingerbread claimed the crown, other classic holiday cookies also found favor among shoppers. Sugar cookies secured the second most popular position, topping sales lists in eight states. These include Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming, showcasing a diverse range of regional preferences.

Rounding out the top three, shortbread cookies proved to be a beloved choice in four states. The rich, buttery flavor of shortbread made it a fan-favorite in Kansas, Maine, Montana, and New Jersey, demonstrating its enduring appeal as a holiday indulgence.

Target’s release of this popular cookie data coincides with the retailer’s intensified efforts to optimize the holiday shopping experience for consumers. The company has recently expanded its next-day delivery service for online orders to an additional 30 metropolitan areas across the country. This strategic move aims to streamline the purchasing process and ensure customers can receive their items promptly during the peak holiday season.

This enhanced delivery capability is part of a larger, multi-billion dollar investment strategy by Target to revitalize its store and digital operations. The company plans to allocate approximately $5 billion towards store improvements, product assortment updates, and the strengthening of its online and digital infrastructure. These upgrades are intended to address recent consumer feedback regarding store conditions and product variety.

Target’s incoming CEO, Michael Fiddelke, has articulated a clear objective to reignite growth for the company, emphasizing the need to enhance the in-store experience, curate more appealing merchandise, and leverage updated technology. This significant capital injection signals a commitment to overcoming recent sales challenges and re-establishing Target as a preferred shopping destination.

The investment is particularly timely as the company has reported its twelfth consecutive quarter of stagnant or declining sales. By focusing on improved store environments, more attractive product offerings, and enhanced technological capabilities, Target aims to address shopper concerns and bolster its market position ahead of the crucial holiday shopping period.

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Keywords: Target holiday cookies, most popular cookie by state, gingerbread cookie sales, sugar cookie popularity, shortbread cookie sales, Target delivery expansion, holiday shopping trends, retail sales analysis