11 Grocery Aisle Favorites That Americans Hoard During Holidays

The holiday season in the U.S. means more than festive lights and family gatherings. It also means crowded grocery stores and carts piled high with seasonal staples. From ingredients tied to decades-old traditions to indulgent treats that only appear in winter, certain foods dominate the holiday shopping rush. These items are stocked up not just for Thanksgiving dinners and Christmas desserts but also for casual entertaining and cozy nights at home. Here are 11 grocery aisle favorites that Americans reliably hoard as soon as the holiday season begins.

1. Canned Pumpkin

No holiday baking list is complete without canned pumpkin. Thanksgiving alone accounts for the majority of annual pumpkin sales, with Libby’s supplying most of the market. Shoppers use it in pies, breads, pancakes, and even savory soups. Because demand is so high, shelves often empty weeks before the holiday. Canned pumpkin provides both convenience and consistency, delivering the rich, earthy flavor that defines fall desserts. Since it is shelf-stable and versatile, many households buy several cans at once to avoid shortages. It remains the quintessential symbol of holiday baking season.

2. Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted turkey and stuffing. While some families make it from scratch, canned cranberry sauce dominates sales because it is quick, reliable, and nostalgic. Its tangy-sweet balance cuts through heavier dishes, making it indispensable on the table. Shoppers often buy multiple cans so they can use leftovers for turkey sandwiches or as a glaze for meats. The familiar ridges from the can may look old-fashioned, but for many families, they represent tradition. Few grocery items are more strongly tied to the holidays than cranberry sauce.

3. Stuffing Mix

Stuffing is one of the most beloved holiday sides, but preparing it entirely from scratch takes time. Boxed mixes like Stove Top have become pantry staples, offering a reliable base that can be easily customized with sausage, celery, or dried fruit. Grocery stores stock extra cases in November, yet shelves still empty quickly as families prepare for Thanksgiving feasts. Affordable, easy to prepare, and adaptable, stuffing mix remains a comfort food that bridges convenience with tradition. Shoppers hoard it early to ensure there is enough to go around when holiday gatherings begin.

4. Evaporated Milk

Evaporated milk is one of those items many people forget until holiday baking season arrives. It is a crucial ingredient in pumpkin pies, fudge, and custards, giving them a creamy, rich texture. Because so many recipes call for it, stores see a dramatic spike in sales in November and December. Cans are shelf-stable and affordable, so families often buy multiples at once to last through the season. Whether for pies or homemade candy, evaporated milk is one of those unsung heroes of holiday grocery shopping.

5. Pecans

Pecans are one of the most in-demand ingredients in November and December. From the famous pecan pie to candied pecans and cookies, they are central to many holiday recipes. Their higher price compared to other nuts makes them feel special, which is why families splurge and stock up early. Beyond desserts, roasted pecans with spices or sugar are popular snacks at parties. Since demand often outpaces supply, pecans are one of the first nuts to sell out during the season. Their buttery crunch makes them synonymous with holiday indulgence.

6. Marshmallows

Marshmallows are more than hot cocoa toppings during the holidays. They are essential for sweet potato casserole, Rice Krispies treats, and festive desserts. Grocery stores dedicate extra shelf space to them in November and December, and families often grab several bags at once. Because they are inexpensive and versatile, marshmallows are used in everything from party snacks to holiday crafts with kids. Their fluffy sweetness adds both texture and nostalgia to seasonal cooking. For many households, marshmallows are as important as flour or sugar in creating holiday favorites.

7. Green Bean Casserole Ingredients

Green bean casserole is a holiday dish so popular that Campbell’s Soup has credited it with millions of cans sold annually. Shoppers stock up on three essentials: canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. This trio creates a creamy, savory casserole that has been a staple on American tables since the 1950s. Because each ingredient is shelf-stable, many households buy multiples to cover multiple gatherings. Stores often run out of fried onions in particular, proving just how iconic this casserole has become during the season.

8. Butter

Butter is always in demand, but holiday baking and cooking send sales soaring. It is the backbone of pies, cookies, cakes, and pastries, while also enriching mashed potatoes and sauces. Around Thanksgiving, grocery chains often discount butter, prompting shoppers to fill their freezers with pounds of it. Many families buy far more than they usually need, knowing it will be used throughout December. Butter’s ability to enhance flavor and provide structure in baking makes it one of the most hoarded and versatile ingredients of the season.

9. Sugar

Sugar is a pantry staple that becomes indispensable during holiday baking marathons. From cookies and pies to fudge and candies, it fuels most festive traditions. Stores rarely run out completely, but shoppers often purchase larger bags to avoid repeat trips. Many families stock up early, knowing they will use more in December than at any other time of year. Its affordability and universality make sugar a quiet star of the season. While it may seem ordinary, sugar is one of the most important items driving holiday kitchen activity.

10. Spice Blends

Pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are key flavors of the season. Grocery stores see a dramatic spike in spice sales starting in October. While pumpkin pie spice is the most famous, shoppers also stock up on cinnamon sticks for cider, nutmeg for eggnog, and cloves for cookies and glazes. Because spices keep well, families often buy extra jars to last beyond the season. Their warming aromas instantly evoke holiday cheer, making these blends and spices essential for both cooking and festive drinks.

11. Eggnog

Eggnog is one of the most seasonal grocery items, appearing in stores only around November and December. Its creamy, spiced flavor is polarizing but beloved by many, which is why shoppers hoard cartons before they disappear. Some enjoy it plain, while others spike it with rum or bourbon for parties. Eggnog’s limited availability adds to its appeal, making it a nostalgic tradition tied to holiday celebrations. Families often buy multiple cartons at once, ensuring they can enjoy the drink throughout the festive season.