McDonald’s Ice Cream Menu | Tasty Frozen Treats
McDonald’s ice cream menu features favorites found almost everywhere in the U.S. You can enjoy a Soft Serve Cone, classic sundaes with Hot Fudge or Hot Caramel, and McFlurry blends with Oreo or M&M’s. Seasonal shakes and special McFlurry flavors also pop up.
These desserts are made with dairy and listed on McDonald’s nutrition and allergen pages. You can find calorie and ingredient details from corporate nutrition guides. These guides also highlight common allergens like milk, soy, and wheat in mix-ins.
Expect changes in offerings based on region and season. Franchise announcements and promotions bring in new McFlurries or deals through the McDonald’s app. But, the soft serve, sundaes, and McFlurry are always there for a sweet treat.
Overview of McDonald’s Frozen Desserts and Sweet Treats
McDonald’s has a variety of frozen treats for quick cravings. They offer soft serve in cones and cups, sundaes with hot fudge or caramel, and McFlurry mixes. These include candy or cookies in soft-serve. They also have limited-time novelties and shakes.
McDonald’s frozen desserts are easy to spot. They include soft-serve cones, cups, sundaes, McFlurries, shakes, and special treats. These are made on-site or with prepackaged mix-ins and served cold.
These treats are affordable and perfect for families or those on the go. McDonald’s sees them as a way to add a sweet touch to meals or enjoy as a treat. They often introduce new flavors with seasonal campaigns and tie-ins with pop culture.
Not all McDonald’s locations offer the same treats. Most U.S. places have soft serve, sundaes, and McFlurry options all year. But, some flavors and shakes change by location. Smaller places might not have as many options.
To see what’s available near you, check the McDonald’s app or local menus. The app often has deals on desserts and special releases. This makes it easier to plan when to grab a sweet treat.
| Category | Typical Items | How It’s Made | Common Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Serve | Cone, Cup | Soft-serve mix dispensed from machine | Nationwide, year-round |
| Sundaes | Hot Fudge Sundae, Hot Caramel Sundae | Soft serve topped with heated sauce | Most locations, year-round |
| McFlurry | Oreo McFlurry, M&M’s McFlurry (varies) | Soft serve blended with candy or cookies | Widespread; flavors vary by region |
| Shakes & Frappes | Vanilla Shake, Chocolate Shake | Soft-serve base or milkshake mix with flavor syrup | Common; some items limited by location |
| Limited Novelties | Seasonal pies, frozen treats | Prepackaged or special on-site prep | Regional and seasonal |
mcdonald’s ice cream menu
McDonald’s offers a variety of frozen treats for quick snacks and family fun. They stick to classic favorites but also introduce new flavors and local twists. Here’s a list of common items, plus notes on special flavors and regional treats.
Complete list of current menu items
Here’s a quick list of items you’ll find at many McDonald’s in the U.S. Keep in mind, what’s available can change based on location and franchise choices.
- Soft Serve Cone (Vanilla)
- Soft Serve Cup
- McFlurry — commonly Oreo and M&M’s
- Hot Fudge Sundae
- Hot Caramel Sundae
- Shakes — Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry
- Occasional pies or frozen novelties (varies by store)
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Serve Cone (Vanilla) | Creamy vanilla soft serve in a sugar cone. | Approx. 200 kcal | $1.00–$2.00 |
| Soft Serve Cup | Simple cup of classic vanilla soft serve. | Approx. 180 kcal | $1.00–$2.00 |
| McFlurry (Oreo) | Vanilla soft serve blended with Oreo cookie pieces. | Approx. 510 kcal | $2.50–$3.50 |
| McFlurry (M&M’s) | Vanilla soft serve with M&M’s candy mix-ins. | Approx. 530 kcal | $2.50–$3.50 |
| Hot Fudge Sundae | Soft serve topped with warm hot fudge sauce. | Approx. 330 kcal | $2.00–$3.00 |
| Hot Caramel Sundae | Classic soft serve finished with hot caramel topping. | Approx. 340 kcal | $2.00–$3.00 |
| Shakes (Vanilla/Chocolate/Strawberry) | Thick milkshake made from soft serve and flavored syrup. | Approx. 530–650 kcal | $2.50–$4.00 |
| Seasonal Pie / Frozen Novelty | Rotating item such as fruit-filled pies or specialty bars. | Varies by product | $1.50–$3.50 |
Seasonal and limited-time frozen treats
McDonald’s brings out special treats for holidays and events. These include limited McFlurry flavors and seasonal shakes.
They’ve had peppermint and pumpkin-spice shakes in the past. These items are available for a short time. Check the app or local stores for the latest.
Regional variations to look for
McDonald’s sometimes adds local flavors to their menu. This includes unique McFlurries and toppings based on where you are.
What’s on the menu can change based on where you are. Exploring different McDonald’s can lead to discovering new treats.
McDonald’s soft serve: texture, ingredients, and serving sizes
McDonald’s soft serve is known for its creamy texture and classic vanilla taste. It’s made from dairy and freezes fast in machines. This makes it light and airy, just like fast-food ice cream should be.
What makes this soft-serve unique
The mix includes milk, cream, sugar, and stabilizers. Machines mix and aerate it for perfect swirls every time. This makes McDonald’s soft serve consistent across locations.
Typical portion sizes and calorie info
Serving sizes vary by item. You can get small cones, sundaes, McFlurries, or shakes. A small cone has about 150 kcal. A small sundae has 210 to 300 kcal.
Regular McFlurries range from 350 to 600 kcal, depending on the mix-ins. Calorie counts can change by region and recipe updates. Check the official nutrition pages for exact numbers.
These details help when picking between McDonald’s ice cream flavors and frozen treats.
Allergen and ingredient considerations
All soft-serve items have milk and dairy products. McFlurry mix-ins might include wheat, soy, eggs, or nuts. There’s a chance of cross-contact with other menu items during preparation.
Guests with allergies should look at McDonald’s allergen guides. Staff can help with ingredient questions at the counter or drive-thru. Knowing this information helps avoid risks when trying different McDonald’s ice cream flavors and frozen treats.
| Item | Description | Approximate Calories | Typical Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Cone | Classic vanilla soft serve in a cake cone | ~150 kcal | $1.00–$1.69 |
| Small Sundae | Soft serve with hot fudge or caramel topping | 210–300 kcal | $1.29–$2.19 |
| Regular McFlurry | Soft serve blended with candy or cookie mix-ins | 350–600 kcal | $2.39–$3.49 |
| Small Shake | Soft serve blended into a flavored milkshake | 250–450 kcal | $2.19–$3.29 |
- Portion control tip: choose smaller sizes to cut calories while keeping flavor.
- Flavor note: vanilla soft serve forms the base for many mcdonald’s ice cream flavors and dessert mash-ups.
- Allergen reminder: always check ingredient lists before ordering mcdonald’s frozen desserts if you have food sensitivities.
Classic McDonald’s sundaes and sundae options
McDonald’s sundaes are simple and comforting. They mix warm sauce with cold vanilla soft serve. These treats are quick and reliable for a sweet end to your meal.
The Hot Fudge Sundae and Hot Caramel Sundae are at the heart of McDonald’s desserts. The Hot Fudge Sundae has rich chocolate sauce over smooth soft serve. The Hot Caramel Sundae adds a sweet caramel drizzle. Both come in a cup with a spoon for easy eating or sharing.
Guests often ask about toppings and customizing their sundaes. While McFlurries are the most mix-in friendly, some places allow extra sauce or a drizzle on sundaes. You can ask for sprinkles, an extra swirl, or more sauce at the register. But, availability can vary, so it’s best to check first.
Ordering the perfect sundae is easy. Just ask for “extra sauce” or “light sauce” to adjust the flavor. Choose a cup instead of a cone for easier sharing and better sauce coverage. For McFlurry mix-ins, specify the candy or cookie you want. The staff can tell you if your customizations are possible at your location.
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hot Fudge Sundae | Vanilla soft serve topped with warm chocolate fudge. | 250 | $1.29–$1.79 |
| Hot Caramel Sundae | Vanilla soft serve with warm caramel sauce. | 260 | $1.29–$1.79 |
| Extra Sauce | Additional hot sauce portion added to any sundae. | 30–80 | $0.30–$0.70 |
| Cup Instead Of Cone | Swap for easier sharing and saucy coverage. | 0 | $0.00–$0.20 |
McDonald’s sundaes are simple yet satisfying. They’re a favorite for families and those in a hurry. Always check the local menu to avoid disappointment with custom requests.
McFlurry and mix-in choices at McDonald’s
McDonald’s mixes creamy soft serve with crunchy or chewy mix-ins for McFlurries. Fans love classics like crushed cookies or candy pieces for their texture and flavor. These treats are part of McDonald’s desserts and sweet treats that families and snack-lovers enjoy.
Popular flavor combos
- Oreo McFlurry — vanilla soft serve mixed with crushed Oreo cookies for a chocolate-cookie taste and smooth base.
- M&M’s McFlurry — sweet candy shells add color and crunch to the soft serve.
- Hot Fudge McFlurry Mash — soft serve swirled with hot fudge and cookie bits for a warm-cold mix.
Limited-time releases and collaborations
McDonald’s sometimes introduces special McFlurry collaborations with candy and snack brands. These limited-time offers might include unique sauces, branded mix-ins, or themed names. They’re available for a short time, so guests should check often.
DIY McFlurry ideas using available toppings
If you can’t find your favorite McFlurry flavor, you have options. Order a cup of soft serve or a sundae and ask for extra toppings. You can even bring your own toppings and ask staff to mix them in for a custom treat.
Quick comparison of mix-in textures
| Mix-In | Texture | Flavor Profile | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oreo Pieces | Crunchy then soft | Chocolate-cookie | Classic McFlurry base; pairs with hot fudge |
| M&M’s | Firm candy shell | Milk chocolate with sugar | Adds color and crunch for kid-friendly appeal |
| Hot Fudge | Thick, smooth sauce | Rich chocolate | Creates sundae-style warmth when swirled in |
| Caramel | Sticky, silky | Buttery sweet | Pairs well with nuts or cookie crumbles |
Mix-ins let customers customize sweetness and texture. These McFlurry options add variety to McDonald’s ice cream flavors. They make McDonald’s desserts and sweet treats even more appealing.
Seasonal and limited-time McDonald’s ice cream flavors
McDonald’s introduces special frozen treats that excite and draw in customers. Fans eagerly await new twists on old favorites, shake mashups, and holiday-themed desserts. These limited-time offers keep the menu exciting and encourage people to try new flavors and desserts before they’re gone.
Examples of past seasonal favorites
In the past, McDonald’s has offered peppermint shakes during the holidays and Halloween sundaes with special toppings. They’ve also created McFlurries tied to movies or candy brands for a short time. Local markets have their own unique treats, adding to the variety of sweet options.
How to find current limited-time flavors
The McDonald’s app is the first to list new items, with photos, descriptions, and when they’ll be available. Menu boards in stores also show when new desserts are added. Follow McDonald’s social media and local franchise pages for updates on new treats.
Tips for catching seasonal releases early
- Enable push notifications in the McDonald’s app so you see launch alerts immediately.
- Follow nearby restaurant social pages for stock updates and early teasers.
- Visit on launch day, preferably in the morning or mid-afternoon, to avoid sellouts.
Nutrition, calories, and dietary info for McDonald’s desserts
People looking at the mcdonald’s ice cream menu want to know about calories and allergens. This section gives you calorie ranges, dietary notes, and tips to lower sugar and fat. You can enjoy great taste without overdoing it.
Calorie ranges for soft serve, sundaes, and McFlurries
Plain soft serve cones have about 120–180 kcal. Small sundaes are 200–300 kcal, depending on toppings. McFlurries range from 350 kcal for a small mix to 650 kcal for a large with candy.
Milkshakes can be 300–700 kcal, based on size and ingredients.
Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian considerations
Frozen desserts at McDonald’s are vegetarian because they don’t have meat. A plain cone or cup of soft serve is usually gluten-free. But, there’s a risk of cross-contamination with gluten in the kitchen.
McDonald’s doesn’t have a dairy-free frozen dessert nationwide. Guests with allergies should check the allergen guide or ask staff for detailed ingredient lists and warnings.
Healthier ordering tips and portion control
Ordering a smaller size can cut calories. Skip extra sauces and mix-ins to reduce sugar. Sharing a McFlurry or getting a plain cone can also help.
For quick nutrition info, use McDonald’s nutrition calculator on their website or app. It shows calories, fat, sugar, and sodium.
Here’s a quick reference table for common desserts, their descriptions, calorie estimates, and prices. It helps you make quick choices.
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Serve Cone | Classic vanilla soft serve in a wafer cone | 120–180 kcal | $1.00–$1.49 |
| Small Sundae (Hot Fudge) | Vanilla soft serve with hot fudge sauce | 200–300 kcal | $1.49–$2.29 |
| Small Sundae (Hot Caramel) | Vanilla soft serve with caramel sauce | 200–300 kcal | $1.49–$2.29 |
| McFlurry (Regular) | Soft serve mixed with candy or cookie pieces | 350–650 kcal | $2.39–$3.99 |
| Vanilla Milkshake (Small) | Blended vanilla soft serve and milk | 300–450 kcal | $2.99–$3.99 |
| Fruit & Yogurt Parfait | Layered fruit, low-fat yogurt, and granola | 150–250 kcal | $1.59–$2.49 |
| Plain Cup (Soft Serve) | Soft serve in a cup, no cone | 120–180 kcal | $1.19–$1.69 |
| Shareable McFlurry (Large) | Large mix-in McFlurry for two or more | 600–900 kcal | $4.29–$5.99 |
Use this guide when looking at the mcdonald’s ice cream menu or checking nutrition details. Making small changes can save calories while keeping the taste you love from mcdonald’s soft serve.
Pricing, value, and deals on McDonald’s sweet treats
Finding the best value on McDonald’s sweet treats is simple. Just know the typical prices and where to find deals. National averages give a good starting point. But, local prices and promotions can change things.
Typical price ranges for popular desserts
Soft serve cones and cups cost between $1.00 and $2.00. Classic sundaes are $1.00 to $2.50. McFlurries are about $2.00 to $4.00. Shakes usually cost $2.50 to $4.50.
Prices vary by city, state, and promotions. Check the mcdonald’s ice cream menu in your app before ordering. This way, you won’t be surprised.
How to use the McDonald’s app for discounts and offers
The McDonald’s app has coupons, discounts, and bundle deals. You can find special deals only available through the app. These might include discounted desserts or buy-one-get-one offers.
Make sure location services are on to see local offers. Use codes at checkout in-store, at the drive-thru, or through delivery partners in the app.
Combo options that include desserts for better value
Some value meals and bundles offer desserts at a lower price. Local deals might pair a meal with a discounted sundae or shake. This can save you money.
Look for current combos on in-store signage and the app. Adding an ice cream item to a sandwich or fries often gives the best value.
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Serve Cone/Cup | Classic vanilla soft serve, available in cone or cup | 150–200 kcal | $1.00–$2.00 |
| Sundae (Hot Fudge/Caramel) | Vanilla soft serve topped with hot fudge or caramel | 250–350 kcal | $1.00–$2.50 |
| McFlurry | Soft serve blended with candy or cookie mix-ins | 350–650 kcal | $2.00–$4.00 |
| Shakes | Thick milkshake in vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry | 400–700 kcal | $2.50–$4.50 |
- Tip: Use app coupons to lower costs on individual items from the mcdonald’s ice cream menu.
- Tip: Look for combo deals that bundle desserts to stretch your budget.
- Tip: Local franchises may run weekend specials on mcdonald’s desserts; check signage for day-specific offers.
Ordering tips for getting the best McDonald’s ice cream experience
For a great dessert at McDonald’s, start with a few simple steps. Ask for soft items to be served fresh. Make sure the cup is clean. When traveling, ask for sauces on the side to avoid soggy toppings.
Staff can make McFlurries and sundaes right in front of you. Ask them to mix it while you watch for the perfect texture. For sundaes, ask for extra sauce or a clean spoon. This way, you have more control over your dessert.
Timing is key for getting the machines ready. Mid-morning after breakfast is usually best. Early afternoon on weekdays works well too. Visiting early increases your chances of getting perfect soft serve.
Some stores might not offer certain customizations due to local rules or equipment. Be polite when asking for special requests. If a mix-in is not available, ask for a plain McFlurry cup and add mix-ins at the register. This way, you get the mix you want.
Simple tricks can make your dessert even better. Try a hot apple pie with soft serve for a quick treat. Order a plain cone and ask for extra chocolate or caramel on the side. Mixing menu items can lead to tasty surprises.
Below is a quick guide with tips, best times, and common customizations. Use it to plan a quick and reliable dessert trip.
| Tip | Why It Helps | Best Time | Common Customization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ask for fresh-served soft serve | Ensures smooth texture and clean cup | Mid-morning | Extra sauce on side |
| Request McFlurry mixing in front of you | Confirms mix-in distribution and consistency | Mid-afternoon (non-peak) | Extra mix-ins in plain cup |
| Order sauces on the side | Prevents soggy toppings during travel | Early day visits | Side caramel or hot fudge |
| Combine items for pie à la mode | Creates a warm-and-cold contrast | Anytime when pie available | Pie plus soft serve |
| Be ready for limits | Keeps expectations realistic and friendly | Weekdays off-peak | Swap mix-ins or sauces |
Comparing McDonald’s ice cream flavors to competitors
McDonald’s frozen treats are known for their steady texture and simple flavors. These are favorites among many customers. They offer reliable options everywhere they are found. This section compares McDonald’s ice cream flavors and offerings with other national fast-food dessert choices.
How McDonald’s Soft Serve Stacks Up Against Other Chains
McDonald’s soft serve is all about consistent taste and low price. Dairy Queen’s Blizzard is denser with more mix-ins. Burger King’s hard-serve shakes are different from McDonald’s smooth vanilla.
The quality of service and machine upkeep affects the texture. A well-maintained McDonald’s machine makes smooth soft serve like competitors. But, poor upkeep can lead to thinner or uneven servings.
Price, Taste, And Quality Comparisons
McDonald’s prices for single cones and sundaes are competitive. Families and busy customers often choose McDonald’s for its predictable costs and quick service.
Classic vanilla with sweet sauces is a favorite taste. McFlurry-style mix-ins are similar to Dairy Queen’s. But, mix-in variety and availability can differ, affecting value.
| Brand | Signature Dessert | Typical Price Range | Notes On Texture & Mix-Ins |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDonald’s | Soft Serve Cone, McFlurry | $1.00 – $4.00 | Light, creamy soft serve with seasonal sauces; mix-ins vary by location |
| Dairy Queen | Blizzard | $2.00 – $5.00 | Thick, spoon-up consistency with many mix-in options |
| Burger King | Soft Serve Cone, Shakes | $1.00 – $4.50 | Smooth but sometimes denser shakes; fewer seasonal mix-ins |
| Wendy’s | Frosty | $1.50 – $4.00 | Chocolate-forward texture that is thicker than typical soft serve |
Why Customers Choose McDonald’s Frozen Desserts
Many customers choose McDonald’s for convenience and habit. App deals and seasonal flavors keep interest high. Parents like the predictable portions and low prices for kids.
Customers looking for quick comfort choose McDonald’s desserts. They are available everywhere and have straightforward flavors. Repeat buyers value the consistent taste and value of McDonald’s soft serve.
Conclusion
McDonald’s ice cream menu offers favorites like creamy soft serve and sundaes. You can also try McFlurries with mix-ins and shakes. Plus, there are limited-time flavors to look out for.
Prices are affordable, and you can choose from light cones to richer McFlurries. This way, you can find treats that match your taste and health goals.
To get the most out of your visit, check the McDonald’s app. It shows current items, prices, and special deals for app users. If you have dietary needs, look at McDonald’s nutrition and allergen guides first. Ingredients and calories can change based on location and mix-ins.
McDonald’s desserts are great for families, busy people, and anyone who loves sweets. Use the app for alerts and visit early to catch new flavors and deals. With both classic and seasonal treats, McDonald’s is a quick and easy way to enjoy a sweet treat.
FAQ
What items are on McDonald’s ice cream menu?
McDonald’s offers Vanilla Soft Serve in cone or cup, Hot Fudge and Hot Caramel Sundaes, and McFlurry with Oreo and M&M’s. They also have shakes in Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry. Seasonal McFlurries and novelties are available too. But, what’s on the menu can change by location.
Are McDonald’s soft serve and McFlurry made with dairy?
Yes, McDonald’s soft serve and McFlurry are dairy-based. But, mix-ins like cookies and candies may have wheat and soy. For exact ingredients and allergens, check McDonald’s nutrition and allergen info for your area.
How many calories are in McDonald’s desserts?
Calories vary by dessert and size. Soft Serve Cone is about 120–180 kcal. Small Sundae is 200–300 kcal. McFlurry calories are 350–650 kcal, depending on mix-ins. Shakes are 300–700 kcal. Use McDonald’s nutrition calculator for exact values.
Do all McDonald’s restaurants serve the full ice cream menu?
Most U.S. locations have the main items all year. But, some small stores might not have every dessert. Seasonal and specialty McFlurries depend on the franchise and region. Check the McDonald’s app or local menu for what’s available.
What are common McFlurry flavor choices and seasonal releases?
Favorites are Oreo and M&M’s McFlurry. Limited-time flavors include collaborations and holiday treats. Seasonal McFlurries are announced on the McDonald’s app and social media. They’re available for a short time.
Can I customize sundaes or McFlurries?
Many places let you add extra or less sauce and choose between cone or cup. You can pick McFlurry mix-ins when ordering. But, extra toppings or special requests might not be available everywhere.
How can customers find the best deals on McDonald’s desserts?
The McDonald’s app has coupons, discounts, and deals. Local signs and in-store combos can also offer dessert discounts. Keep the app updated and check daily for savings.
