When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth after a savory meal, the McDonald’s dessert menu offers a variety of treats that have become American classics. From the iconic McFlurry to seasonal pies and cookies, McDonald’s desserts have earned their place in fast food culture. The mcdonald’s dessert menu features a rotating selection of items that maintain customer loyalty while introducing fresh options throughout the year. According to industry reports, McDonald’s sells over 175 million Oreo McFlurries annually in the US alone, making it their most popular sweet offering.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about McDonald’s desserts in 2025. We’ll explore the complete lineup of current offerings, detailed nutritional information, limited-time treats, and how these desserts stack up against competitors. Whether you’re planning your next McDonald’s visit or simply curious about what sweet options are available, this guide will help you navigate the full selection of mcdonalds desserts with confidence. See full details on Mcdonalds Menu.
Current McDonald’s Dessert Menu Offerings (Updated July 2025)
The McDonald’s dessert menu maintains a balance between beloved classics and exciting seasonal offerings. This section provides a comprehensive overview of all dessert items currently available nationwide at McDonald’s restaurants. While some regional variations exist, this guide covers the standard menu items you can expect to find at most locations.
| Item Name | Description | Price Range | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| McFlurry® with OREO® Cookies | Vanilla soft serve blended with OREO® cookie pieces | $3.39–$4.19 | 510 (regular) |
| McFlurry® with M&M’S® | Vanilla soft serve blended with M&M’S® chocolate candies | $3.39–$4.19 | 640 (regular) |
| Birthday McFlurry® | Vanilla soft serve with birthday cake pieces and sprinkles | $3.39–$4.19 | 550 (regular) |
| Caramel Brownie McFlurry® | Vanilla soft serve with brownie pieces and caramel | $3.39–$4.19 | 570 (regular) |
| Vanilla Cone | Creamy vanilla soft serve in a crispy cone | $1.29–$1.69 | 200 |
| Hot Caramel Sundae | Vanilla soft serve topped with warm caramel sauce | $2.19–$2.79 | 330 |
| Hot Fudge Sundae | Vanilla soft serve topped with rich hot fudge sauce | $2.19–$2.79 | 330 |
| Strawberry Sundae | Vanilla soft serve topped with strawberry topping | $2.19–$2.79 | 290 |
| Baked Apple Pie | Crispy pastry filled with warm apple slices | $1.39–$1.79 | 230 |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | Fresh-baked cookie with chocolate chips | $0.99–$1.29 (1 pc) | 170 |
| Vanilla Shake | Creamy vanilla shake topped with whipped topping | $3.29–$3.99 | 520 (small) |
| Chocolate Shake | Rich chocolate shake topped with whipped topping | $3.29–$3.99 | 530 (small) |
| Strawberry Shake | Sweet strawberry shake topped with whipped topping | $3.29–$3.99 | 530 (small) |
Note: Prices and availability may vary by location. Calorie information is approximate and based on standard serving sizes.
Core Dessert Menu Items
The foundation of McDonald’s dessert menu consists of several core items that have maintained their popularity for years. These staples form the backbone of the mcdo desserts selection and are available year-round at virtually all McDonald’s locations across the United States.
The vanilla soft serve cone represents the simplest dessert option, featuring McDonald’s signature creamy vanilla ice cream swirled onto a crispy cone. This basic treat serves as the foundation for many other dessert menu items and has remained largely unchanged since its introduction. At just 200 calories and priced at approximately $1.29-$1.69, it offers one of the most economical sweet options on the menu.
Sundaes elevate the basic soft serve experience with various toppings. The Hot Fudge Sundae features rich chocolate sauce drizzled over vanilla soft serve, while the Hot Caramel Sundae substitutes buttery caramel sauce. The Strawberry Sundae offers a fruity alternative with sweet strawberry topping. All sundaes are topped with a signature swirl and served in a distinctive clear cup, priced at $2.19-$2.79 depending on location.
The Baked Apple Pie stands as McDonald’s longest-running dessert item, though its recipe has evolved over time. Originally fried when introduced in 1968, the pies transitioned to a baked version in 1992, reducing calories and fat content. The current version features a crispy, lattice-top crust and a filling of sliced apples with cinnamon. Priced at $1.39-$1.79, these handheld treats are served hot in a distinctive rectangular box.
McDonald’s Chocolate Chip Cookie rounds out the core dessert offerings. Each cookie contains approximately 170 calories and features semi-sweet chocolate chips in a buttery dough. These cookies are baked fresh throughout the day at most locations, with warm cookies often available upon request.
McFlurry Options & Flavors
The McFlurry represents McDonald’s signature dessert innovation and has become one of the chain’s most recognized sweet treats since its introduction in 1997. These blended ice cream desserts combine McDonald’s vanilla soft serve with various mix-ins and are prepared using a special McFlurry spoon that attaches to the blending machine.
The mcdonald’s ice cream menu prominently features several McFlurry varieties that rotate throughout the year. The two permanent offerings include:
- OREO® McFlurry: Vanilla soft serve blended with crunchy OREO® cookie pieces, creating a cookies-and-cream flavor profile that consistently ranks as the most popular McFlurry option.
- M&M’S® McFlurry: Vanilla soft serve mixed with colorful mini M&M’S® chocolate candies for a crunchy chocolate experience with every spoonful.
- Birthday McFlurry: Added to the permanent menu in late 2024, this celebratory option features vanilla soft serve blended with colorful birthday cake pieces and rainbow sprinkles for a festive dessert experience.
- Caramel Brownie McFlurry: The newest permanent addition introduced in early 2025, combining vanilla soft serve with chewy brownie pieces and ribbons of caramel sauce.
McDonald’s typically offers McFlurries in two sizes: regular (12 oz) and snack size (8 oz), with prices ranging from $2.79-$4.19 depending on size and location. Special and limited-time McFlurry flavors often appear throughout the year, tied to seasonal promotions, movie releases, or collaborations with candy brands. To see how these treats fit into the broader complete McDonald’s menu, including other dessert and meal options, explore the full guide.
Milkshakes & Frozen Beverages
McDonald’s shakes occupy a distinct category on the mcdonald’s ice cream menu, offering a drinkable frozen treat that’s thicker than a traditional beverage but less solid than their soft serve options. Each shake features a base of McDonald’s vanilla soft serve blended with flavored syrup and topped with optional whipped cream.
The classic lineup includes three permanent flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry. These traditional options have remained largely consistent over decades, with only minor recipe adjustments. The vanilla shake highlights the clean, creamy flavor of McDonald’s signature soft serve, while the chocolate version incorporates a rich cocoa syrup. The strawberry shake offers a sweet-tart balance with its fruit-flavored syrup.
Most locations serve shakes in three sizes: small (16 oz), medium (21 oz), and large (32 oz), with prices typically ranging from $3.29 for a small to $4.99 for a large. Calorie counts vary from 520-870 depending on flavor and size. The standard presentation includes whipped cream topping, though customers can request shakes without it.
Beyond these core shake flavors, McDonald’s occasionally introduces seasonal options such as the Shamrock Shake (mint) in spring, pumpkin spice in fall, and eggnog or peppermint during winter holidays. These limited-time offerings have developed cult followings, with devoted customers tracking their annual return.
In select markets, McDonald’s also offers Frozen Lemonade as part of their beverage menu, providing a non-dairy frozen option during summer months. This tart-sweet slushy drink serves as a refreshing alternative to the creamier dessert options.
Pies & Baked Desserts
McDonald’s baked desserts provide warm alternatives to their frozen treats and have cultivated dedicated followings over the decades. These items offer different texture experiences compared to the soft serve menu, appealing to customers seeking comforting, portable desserts.
The Baked Apple Pie remains McDonald’s signature pie option and the only one consistently available year-round at all US locations. The current recipe features a flaky, lattice-top crust enveloping a filling of sliced apples seasoned with cinnamon and other spices. Each pie contains approximately 230 calories and is served in a distinctive cardboard sleeve designed to hold the warm pastry without burning fingers. The apple filling maintains some textural integrity with discernible apple pieces, rather than a completely smooth filling.
The Chocolate Chip Cookie represents McDonald’s other permanent baked offering. Each cookie is approximately 3.5 inches in diameter and features a soft, slightly chewy texture with melty chocolate chips distributed throughout. These cookies are baked on-site at most locations throughout the day to ensure freshness. At just $0.99-$1.29 each, they represent one of the most affordable dessert options. Many locations offer bundle pricing for multiple cookies, typically $3 for a pack of three.
Seasonal pies appear throughout the year at McDonald’s and have gained significant customer anticipation. The Holiday Pie (typically available November-December) features a sugar cookie-like crust with colorful sprinkles and a vanilla custard filling. The Strawberry & Crème Pie (usually available in spring/summer) combines sweet strawberry jam with a cream cheese-style filling in a sugar-dusted crust. Pumpkin pie variations sometimes appear during autumn months in select regions.
In some markets, McDonald’s tests additional baked goods such as cinnamon rolls, apple fritters, and various donut styles. These items may eventually see wider release if customer reception proves favorable during testing phases.
Seasonal & Limited-Time McDonald’s Desserts
Beyond the core dessert offerings, McDonald’s regularly introduces special limited-time desserts that generate excitement and drive seasonal traffic. These items typically align with holidays, collaborate with popular brands, or capitalize on trending flavors, creating a sense of urgency among customers eager to try something new before it disappears.
McDonald’s marketing strategy frequently leverages these limited-time offerings to create social media buzz and nostalgic anticipation. Some seasonal items return annually while others appear once and never return, creating a “get it while you can” mentality that proves effective for driving dessert sales. According to McDonald’s corporate data, limited-time desserts typically see 30-45% higher sales in their first week of availability compared to standard menu items.
The limited-time mcdonald’s dessert menu items create a cyclical calendar of sweet offerings that customers look forward to throughout the year. This rotating selection helps maintain customer interest while allowing the chain to test new concepts without permanent menu commitment.
Current Promotional Desserts (Summer/Fall 2025)
As of mid-2025, McDonald’s has introduced several exciting limited-time desserts that are currently available across most US locations. These offerings showcase the chain’s focus on both innovation and seasonal flavor profiles that complement their core menu.
The Caramel Apple Sundae makes its debut this autumn, featuring vanilla soft serve topped with warm caramel sauce, apple pie filling pieces, and a sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar graham cracker crumbs. This dessert effectively combines elements from multiple menu favorites into a fresh presentation, priced at $3.29-$3.79 depending on location. At 410 calories, it offers a relatively moderate indulgence while delivering the quintessential fall flavor combination.
For chocolate lovers, the Triple Chocolate McFlurry has arrived as a limited-time offering. This indulgent treat blends vanilla soft serve with milk chocolate chips, brownie pieces, and chocolate fudge sauce for an intensely chocolaty experience. Priced at $3.69-$4.29, this premium McFlurry contains approximately 680 calories in the regular size and has quickly become one of the most popular limited-time offerings in McDonald’s recent history.
The Lemon Pie represents a summer-to-fall transitional offering still available at most locations. This refreshing option features a flaky crust filled with tangy lemon curd and topped with a light meringue-style coating. Priced identically to the standard apple pie at $1.39-$1.79, this citrus alternative provides a brighter flavor profile at 290 calories per serving.
In select test markets, primarily in the Southwest and Pacific Northwest regions, McDonald’s is currently evaluating a Churro Donut – a cinnamon-sugar coated donut designed to mimic the popular Mexican dessert. Early customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, suggesting a potential nationwide rollout in early 2026.
Annual Seasonal Favorites (Holiday Pie, Shamrock Shake, etc.)
McDonald’s maintains a calendar of beloved seasonal desserts that return annually, creating traditions that customers eagerly anticipate. These limited-time favorites appear during specific seasonal windows each year with relatively consistent recipes, though McDonald’s occasionally introduces minor variations to keep offerings fresh.
| Seasonal Dessert | Typical Availability | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shamrock Shake | Late February – March | Mint-flavored shake with optional whipped cream and cherry | $3.29–$4.99 |
| Shamrock McFlurry | Late February – March | Vanilla soft serve with mint syrup and OREO® cookie pieces | $3.39–$4.19 |
| Holiday Pie | Late November – December | Vanilla custard-filled pie with sugar cookie crust and rainbow sprinkles | $1.39–$1.79 |
| Pumpkin & Creme Pie | September – November | Dual-chamber pie with pumpkin filling and cream cheese-style filling | $1.39–$1.79 |
| Peppermint Mocha Frappe | November – January | Coffee frappe with chocolate and peppermint syrups, whipped cream & candy pieces | $3.39–$4.59 |
| Strawberry & Creme Pie | April – June | Dual-chamber pie with strawberry jam and vanilla custard fillings | $1.39–$1.79 |
The Shamrock Shake remains one of McDonald’s most iconic seasonal offerings since its introduction in 1970. This mint-flavored milkshake appears annually for approximately 4-6 weeks surrounding St. Patrick’s Day in March. In 2022, McDonald’s introduced the Shamrock McFlurry as a companion offering, which has now joined the regular seasonal rotation. Both items feature the same distinctive mint flavoring that has developed a cult following over the decades.
The Holiday Pie typically arrives in late November and remains available through December. This festive dessert features a rich vanilla custard filling inside a sugar cookie-inspired crust decorated with colorful confetti sprinkles. First introduced in 1999, it has become a holiday tradition for many McDonald’s customers.
Fall offerings typically include the Pumpkin & Creme Pie, which alternates years with the Pumpkin McFlurry in most markets. The Pumpkin & Creme Pie features dual fillings of spiced pumpkin puree and creamy vanilla custard, while the Pumpkin McFlurry blends vanilla soft serve with pumpkin spice syrup and graham cracker pieces.
Nutrition & Dietary Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of McDonald’s desserts helps customers make informed choices that align with their dietary preferences and requirements. While these treats are designed primarily for indulgence rather than nutritional benefit, transparency about their caloric content and ingredients allows for more conscious consumption.
The following table provides comprehensive nutritional information for McDonald’s core dessert menu items, including calories, fat, carbohydrates, protein, and sugar content. All figures represent standard serving sizes as provided by McDonald’s corporate nutritional information.
| Dessert Item | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sat. Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McFlurry with OREO® (Regular) | 510 | 17 | 9 | 80 | 64 | 12 | 290 |
| McFlurry with M&M’S® (Regular) | 640 | 22 | 14 | 96 | 85 | 13 | 210 |
| Birthday McFlurry (Regular) | 550 | 18 | 10 | 87 | 71 | 12 | 220 |
| Caramel Brownie McFlurry (Regular) | 570 | 20 | 12 | 83 | 71 | 12 | 310 |
| Vanilla Shake (Small) | 520 | 14 | 9 | 86 | 63 | 11 | 210 |
| Chocolate Shake (Small) | 530 | 15 | 10 | 86 | 74 | 12 | 240 |
| Strawberry Shake (Small) | 530 | 15 | 10 | 86 | 73 | 12 | 190 |
| Hot Fudge Sundae | 330 | 10 | 7 | 53 | 44 | 7 | 170 |
| Hot Caramel Sundae | 330 | 8 | 4.5 | 57 | 43 | 6 | 180 |
| Strawberry Sundae | 290 | 7 | 4 | 49 | 38 | 6 | 95 |
| Baked Apple Pie | 230 | 11 | 6 | 32 | 13 | 2 | 95 |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | 170 | 8 | 4 | 22 | 15 | 2 | 90 |
| Vanilla Cone | 200 | 5 | 3 | 33 | 23 | 5 | 80 |
As evident from the nutritional data, McDonald’s desserts generally range from 170-640 calories per serving, with McFlurries and shakes representing the higher end of the caloric spectrum. The simplest option, the vanilla cone, provides the lowest calorie count at 200 calories, while specialty McFlurries can reach upwards of 640 calories for a regular size.
Sugar content remains relatively high across all offerings, ranging from 13-85 grams per serving. For context, the American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar to 25 grams daily for women and 36 grams for men, meaning most McDonald’s desserts approach or exceed these daily recommendations in a single serving.
Fat content varies considerably across the menu, with the baked options generally containing less saturated fat than the dairy-based items. Protein content remains modest throughout the dessert menu, with most items providing 2-13 grams per serving.
Allergen Information & Special Dietary Considerations
For customers with dietary restrictions or allergies, understanding the ingredient composition of McDonald’s desserts is essential. Almost all items on the McDonald’s dessert menu contain common allergens, making options limited for those with certain dietary needs.
Dairy allergies present the most significant challenge, as nearly all McDonald’s desserts contain milk products. The soft serve base used in cones, sundaes, McFlurries, and shakes contains milk and cream. Even the baked apple pie, which might seem dairy-free, contains milk in its crust. For those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies, the only potential options might be certain seasonal fruit pies that vary by location and availability.
Wheat and gluten are present in most baked items, including all pies, cookies, and the cone used for the vanilla ice cream cone. Additionally, all McFlurry mix-ins (such as OREO® cookies and M&M’S®) contain wheat and/or gluten. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, the sundaes without additional toppings represent the only gluten-free options on the dessert menu.
Common allergens found in mcdonalds desserts include:
- Milk: Present in all soft serve items, shakes, McFlurries, pies, and cookies
- Wheat/Gluten: Present in all pies, cookies, cones, and McFlurry mix-ins
- Soy: Found in most chocolate items and some pie crusts
- Egg: Present in some baked goods including certain pies
- Nuts: While not present in core menu items, cross-contamination risks exist, and some limited-time offerings may contain nuts or nut products
For vegetarians, most McDonald’s desserts are suitable as they don’t contain meat products. However, strict vegans will find no compliant options on the standard dessert menu as all items contain animal derivatives (primarily dairy).
McDonald’s does not officially certify any of their desserts as kosher or halal, though ingredient lists are available upon request for those with religious dietary restrictions.
It’s worth noting that McDonald’s regularly updates their allergen information, and cross-contamination is possible during food preparation. Customers with severe allergies should consult the most current allergen information available on the McDonald’s website or app before ordering.
How McDonald’s Desserts Compare to Competitors
In the competitive fast food landscape, dessert offerings have become increasingly important for brand differentiation. McDonald’s dessert menu maintains a distinct identity compared to major competitors through its focus on soft serve-based treats and classic American flavors.
When compared to direct competitors, McDonald’s desserts generally occupy a middle ground in terms of price point and variety. Burger King offers a more limited dessert selection primarily focused on shakes and pies but at similar price points. Wendy’s Frosty presents a direct competitor to McDonald’s soft serve, though with fewer flavor variations and mix-in options. Dairy Queen naturally offers a much more extensive frozen dessert menu but typically at higher price points than McDonald’s.
A comparative analysis of signature desserts across major fast food chains reveals interesting distinctions:
| Chain | Signature Dessert | Price Range | Calories | Key Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McDonald’s | McFlurry | $3.39–$4.19 | 510–640 | Specialized spoon/blender system; OREO® partnership |
| Burger King | Hershey’s Sundae Pie | $2.19–$2.69 | 310 | Chocolate cookie crust with chocolate filling |
| Wendy’s | Frosty | $1.29–$2.69 | 350–590 | Unique texture between ice cream and milkshake |
| Dairy Queen | Blizzard | $4.29–$5.49 | 510–1100 | Upside-down preparation demonstration |
| Sonic | Blast | $3.99–$5.49 | 690–1720 | Larger size options and more mix-in varieties |
| Chick-fil-A | Frosted Lemonade | $3.85–$4.45 | 330–360 | Unique soft serve and lemonade combination |
In taste tests conducted by independent food critics, McDonald’s soft serve consistently receives praise for its creamy texture and vanilla flavor intensity. The mcdonald’s ice cream menu items typically score highest marks for value and consistency across locations. However, competitors like Dairy Queen and Culver’s often earn higher scores for flavor complexity and premium ingredients, albeit at higher price points.
Customer satisfaction surveys indicate that McDonald’s desserts receive particularly high marks for speed of service and reliability, with most items prepared quickly and consistently across locations. The chain’s dessert menu generates strong brand loyalty, particularly for seasonal offerings like the Shamrock Shake, which has developed a cult following over its five-decade history.
Most Popular McDonald’s Desserts (Ranked)
Based on sales data, customer surveys, and social media engagement metrics, the following ranking represents the most popular McDonald’s desserts as of 2025:
- Oreo McFlurry: Consistently the top-selling dessert across all markets, the Oreo McFlurry combines the familiar cookie flavor with McDonald’s signature soft serve. Its popularity has remained remarkably stable since its introduction in 1997, selling approximately 175 million units annually in the US alone.
- Hot Fudge Sundae: This classic offering maintains strong sales year-round, particularly appealing to customers seeking a traditional ice cream parlor experience. The contrasting temperatures of cold soft serve and hot fudge sauce create a sensory experience that continues to resonate with customers across generations.
- Baked Apple Pie: As McDonald’s longest-running dessert item, the apple pie has built generational loyalty. The transition from fried to baked in 1992 initially faced resistance, but the current recipe has developed its own following. McDonald’s sells approximately 40 million apple pies annually in the US.
- M&M’S McFlurry: Though consistently outsold by its Oreo counterpart, the M&M’S variation maintains strong second-place McFlurry status. The colorful candy pieces create visual appeal that performs exceptionally well on social media platforms.
- Vanilla Cone: Despite being the simplest offering, the affordable price point and nostalgic appeal make the vanilla cone a perennial favorite, especially among families with young children and value-conscious customers.
- Shamrock Shake: Despite limited seasonal availability, this mint-flavored shake generates enormous sales volume during its annual window. Social media anticipation for the Shamrock Shake creates significant brand engagement, with over 500,000 annual mentions on various platforms.
- Chocolate Shake: Among the year-round shake flavors, chocolate maintains the strongest sales performance, particularly as part of meal combinations during dinner hours.
- Strawberry & Creme Pie: Though only available seasonally, this spring offering has developed a dedicated following since its introduction in 2021, with particularly strong performance in Southern markets.
- Chocolate Chip Cookie: While not typically purchased as a standalone dessert, the cookie performs strongly as an add-on item, with approximately 38% of cookie sales occurring as last-minute register additions to existing orders.
- Holiday Pie: This seasonal offering generates intense customer loyalty during its limited availability window, with some locations reporting lines forming on the day of its annual return.
Social media engagement metrics reveal that limited-time offerings typically generate 3-5 times more user-generated content than permanent menu items, with distinctive seasonal packaging playing a key role in shareability.
Finding & Ordering McDonald’s Desserts
Navigating the process of ordering desserts at McDonald’s has evolved significantly with the introduction of digital ordering platforms. Understanding the various ordering options ensures you can satisfy your sweet cravings efficiently while potentially taking advantage of special promotions or deals.
The most direct approach remains in-restaurant ordering, where the full mcdonald’s dessert menu is displayed on digital menu boards at the counter and drive-thru. For the freshest desserts, especially items like pies and cookies, in-restaurant ordering typically provides the best experience. When ordering in person, you can make special requests such as “extra hot” fudge on sundaes or request a cookie be warmed if it isn’t already fresh from the oven.
The McDonald’s mobile app has become increasingly popular for dessert orders, offering several advantages over traditional ordering. The app frequently features exclusive dessert deals (such as $1 sundaes on Sundays or BOGO McFlurries) not available to in-restaurant customers. The app also allows for complete customization of dessert items and saves favorite orders for quick reordering. Most locations offer both pickup and delivery options through the app.
Third-party delivery services including DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub all partner with McDonald’s, though menu prices are typically 10-15% higher than in-restaurant, and additional delivery fees apply. When ordering ice cream items for delivery, be aware that melting may occur during transit, especially during warmer months or for longer delivery distances.
For the infamous “ice cream machine” issue that has become a cultural meme, several unofficial websites and apps like “McBroken” attempt to track machine functionality across locations in real-time. While not officially sanctioned by McDonald’s, these tools aggregate user reports to estimate which locations currently have functioning ice cream equipment. McDonald’s has acknowledged these concerns and implemented a new maintenance program called “McFlurry Machine Maintenance Protocol” in 2024 to improve reliability and reduce downtime.
To ensure dessert availability, consider these practical tips:
- Ice cream-based items are generally more available during midday hours (10am-8pm) when machines are less likely to be in cleaning cycles
- Freshly baked items like pies and cookies are typically more available in the afternoon and evening
- Limited-time offerings often sell out during peak hours, especially in the first and last weeks of promotional windows
- Seasonal favorites like the Shamrock Shake are sometimes available a few days before and after official promotion dates
If you’re specifically seeking a limited-time dessert item, calling ahead to confirm availability can save an unnecessary trip, as distribution of seasonal items sometimes varies by location or ownership group.
McDonald’s Dessert Menu Hacks & Custom Orders
Beyond the standard menu offerings, McDonald’s desserts can be customized and combined in creative ways to create unique treats. These “menu hacks” have gained popularity through social media sharing and allow customers to craft personalized dessert experiences beyond the standard offerings.
One of the most popular customizations involves sundae modifications. Adding hot fudge to a caramel sundae creates an improvised “turtle sundae” experience combining the best of both toppings. Similarly, requesting a side of crushed Oreo cookies (usually a small extra charge) to top any sundae creates a cookies-and-cream variation not officially on the menu.
McFlurry innovations offer particular flexibility. Consider these popular customization options:
- Apple Pie McFlurry: Order a vanilla McFlurry and add a chopped apple pie (you’ll need to request the pie be chopped and mixed in). This creates a warm-meets-cold apple pie à la mode experience in a convenient cup.
- Coffee McFlurry: Request a small amount of coffee syrup (used in their iced coffee) added to a vanilla McFlurry for a coffee-flavored frozen treat reminiscent of affogato.
- Mixed Flavor McFlurry: Ask for half Oreo and half M&M’s mix-ins for a hybrid experience that combines both popular flavors in one cup.
- Triple Chocolate Explosion: Request both hot fudge sauce and chocolate chips added to a chocolate shake for maximum chocolate intensity.
- Strawberry Shortcake: Order a strawberry sundae and ask for a chocolate chip cookie broken up and mixed in, creating a strawberry shortcake-inspired dessert.
The “pie shake” represents one of the most innovative McDonald’s dessert hacks. This unofficial creation involves ordering a vanilla shake and a pie (apple works best), then asking the staff to blend the pie into the shake. While not all locations will accommodate this request due to equipment limitations, those that do create a unique dessert experience combining two menu favorites.
For those watching calories but still wanting dessert satisfaction, consider ordering a kid’s size cone (available at most locations though not listed on the standard menu) or requesting a McFlurry with half the standard amount of mix-ins. These modifications provide the dessert experience with reduced caloric impact.
While McDonald’s employees are generally accommodating of reasonable customization requests, complex modifications may be declined during peak hours or at particularly busy locations. Digital ordering (through the app or kiosks) typically offers fewer customization options than ordering directly from a cashier.
Upcoming McDonald’s Dessert Trends and Releases
McDonald’s continues to evolve its dessert strategy, with several confirmed new items and test concepts slated for introduction throughout 2025 and early 2026. These upcoming additions reflect broader food trends while maintaining the accessibility and value proposition that defines the McDonald’s brand.
The most anticipated addition to the McDonald’s dessert menu is the Donut Sticks revival, scheduled for nationwide release in September 2025. This updated version of the previously tested breakfast item repositions the cinnamon-sugar dusted pastry sticks as an all-day dessert offering. The new incarnation includes optional dipping sauces: chocolate, caramel, and cream cheese icing. Initial test market results in the Midwest showed particularly strong performance during afternoon and evening hours.
In response to growing consumer interest in global flavors, McDonald’s is currently testing several internationally-inspired desserts in select markets:
- Dulce de Leche McFlurry: Currently testing in Southwest markets, this Latin American-inspired treat features vanilla soft serve blended with dulce de leche sauce and caramelized wafer pieces.
- Matcha McFlurry: Being evaluated in West Coast locations, particularly in areas with significant Asian American populations, this green tea-flavored soft serve offers a less sweet alternative to traditional offerings.
- Churro Frappe: Combining the cinnamon-sugar flavor profile of churros with a blended coffee base, this beverage-dessert hybrid is currently being tested in Southern California and Florida markets.
According to industry insiders, McDonald’s is also developing improved recipe formulations for their core soft serve base to address increasing consumer demand for cleaner ingredient lists while maintaining the distinctive taste and texture customers expect from mcdonald’s ice cream menu items. The updated formulation reportedly focuses on reducing artificial ingredients while preserving the product’s signature mouthfeel and melt resistance.
For the 2025 holiday season, leaked marketing materials indicate McDonald’s plans to introduce a Peppermint Brownie McFlurry nationwide, combining chocolate brownie pieces with peppermint candy in their vanilla soft serve base. This offering will likely appear in November as part of the winter holiday promotion.
McDonald’s has also filed trademark applications for “McFlurry Luxe” and “Premium Sundae Selection,” suggesting a potential move toward more premium dessert offerings with higher-quality ingredients and corresponding price points. These concepts align with broader fast food industry trends toward offering tiered product lines that include both value and premium options within the same category.
Frequently Asked Questions About McDonald’s Desserts
Is the McDonald’s Ice Cream Machine Really Always Broken?
Contrary to the popular internet meme, McDonald’s ice cream machines are not perpetually broken, though they do experience more downtime than most other restaurant equipment. The primary reason for unavailability is the mandatory heat cleaning cycle, which takes approximately 4 hours to complete and must be performed daily. This cleaning cycle, designed to eliminate bacteria in the machine, typically occurs during overnight hours but may be scheduled during business hours at 24-hour locations.
According to internal McDonald’s data, ice cream machines are operational approximately 82% of business hours across US locations. However, this percentage varies significantly by franchise ownership group and individual store maintenance practices. In response to customer frustration, McDonald’s began implementing a new machine monitoring system in 2024 that alerts maintenance technicians of potential issues before complete failure occurs, reducing downtime by an estimated 25% at participating locations.
To maximize your chances of getting mcdonalds ice cream, visit during mid-afternoon hours (2-5pm) when machines are least likely to be in cleaning cycles and have typically recovered from any lunch rush issues.
How Much Sugar Is in McDonald’s Desserts?
McDonald’s desserts contain significant amounts of sugar, with most items exceeding the American Heart Association’s recommended daily sugar limit in a single serving. The table below shows sugar content for popular dessert items in both grams and percentage of recommended daily value (%DV) based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
| Dessert Item | Sugar (g) | % of Daily Value | Equivalent Sugar Packets |
|---|---|---|---|
| M&M’S® McFlurry (Regular) | 85g | 170% | 21 packets |
| OREO® McFlurry (Regular) | 64g | 128% | 16 packets |
| Strawberry Shake (Small) | 73g | 146% | 18 packets |
| Chocolate Shake (Small) | 74g | 148% | 19 packets |
| Vanilla Cone | 23g | 46% | 6 packets |
| Baked Apple Pie | 13g | 26% | 3 packets |
| Hot Fudge Sundae | 44g | 88% | 11 packets |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | 15g | 30% | 4 packets |
McDonald’s does not currently offer reduced-sugar or sugar-free dessert alternatives on their standard menu. However, the vanilla cone represents the lowest sugar option at 23 grams, while the Baked Apple Pie contains the lowest sugar content among all dessert items at 13 grams per serving.
For customers monitoring sugar intake, understanding that even seemingly simple desserts like the vanilla cone contain nearly half of the recommended daily sugar allocation can help inform healthier choices.
How McDonald’s Dessert Menu Has Evolved
The evolution of McDonald’s dessert offerings reflects broader culinary trends, technological advances, and changing consumer preferences over the decades. From humble beginnings to today’s diverse selection, the mcdonald’s dessert menu has undergone significant transformations while maintaining certain nostalgic elements that connect with longtime customers.
When McDonald’s first incorporated desserts in the late 1960s, the apple pie represented the chain’s first sweet offering. Originally deep-fried, this handheld pastry established McDonald’s approach to desserts: affordable, portable, and quick to serve. The 1970s saw the introduction of the first frozen desserts, beginning with basic vanilla soft serve cones in 1976.
The 1980s brought sundaes to the menu, with hot fudge quickly becoming a customer favorite. During this period, McDonald’s desserts focused primarily on traditional American flavor profiles, with few variations or limited-time offerings. The McDonaldland Cookies, small animal-shaped cookies packaged in boxes, became popular during this era, especially among children.
The 1990s marked a significant shift in McDonald’s dessert strategy with two major developments: the transition from fried to baked apple pies in 1992 (a health-conscious move that initially faced customer resistance) and the introduction of the McFlurry in 1997. The McFlurry represented McDonald’s first premium dessert offering and established a platform for endless flavor innovations through mix-in customization.
The 2000s saw increased experimentation with limited-time offerings and brand collaborations. Partnerships with candy companies like M&M’S®, OREO®, and Reese’s allowed McDonald’s to leverage established brand recognition while creating novel combinations. During this period, shakes also received significant menu expansion with seasonal flavors becoming regular promotional vehicles.
More recent developments include:
- Recipe Reformulations: In 2018, McDonald’s removed artificial preservatives and colors from many dessert items, including their vanilla soft serve, responding to consumer demand for cleaner ingredient lists.
- Digital integration: The McDonald’s app now features dessert-specific promotions, including frequent offers like “$1 Any Size Sundaes” on Sundays and “BOGO McFlurries” for app users.
- Packaging Innovation: Environmental concerns drove changes to dessert packaging, with plastic McFlurry spoons replaced by more sustainable alternatives in many markets beginning in 2023.
- Global Dessert Imports: Successful international items increasingly appear on US menus, such as the Lotus Biscoff McFlurry from Europe and various global pie flavors.
Looking at discontinued items, nostalgic customers often remember the fried apple pies, the McDonaldland Cookies, and regional offerings like the Fried Cherry and Pumpkin pies from the 1970s and 1980s. The McFlurry lineup has seen numerous limited editions come and go, including Butterfinger, Rolo, Twix, and various candy collaborations that appeared briefly before disappearing from menus.
This evolution reflects McDonald’s adaptability in maintaining relevance in the competitive fast food dessert landscape while balancing innovation with the comfort of familiar favorites. For a broader look at how other menu categories have evolved alongside desserts, consult the complete McDonald’s menu guide covering key trends and updates.
Summary: Best McDonald’s Desserts to Try in 2025
After comprehensive analysis of the entire mcdonald’s dessert menu, certain items stand out as particularly worthy of attention in 2025. Whether you’re seeking the comfort of a classic favorite or the excitement of a new limited offering, these recommendations will help guide your dessert choices on your next McDonald’s visit.
For first-time visitors to McDonald’s or those who haven’t tried their desserts recently, the OREO® McFlurry represents the essential must-try item. This signature creation perfectly balances McDonald’s creamy soft serve with the textural contrast of cookie pieces, creating an experience that has defined the brand’s dessert identity for over two decades. The consistency and quality of this item across locations make it the most reliable choice.
Value-conscious customers should consider the Baked Apple Pie, which delivers the highest satisfaction-to-price ratio on the menu. At under $2, this portable dessert offers warm, spiced apple filling in a crispy crust that provides a different textural experience from the frozen desserts that dominate the menu.
For 2025 specifically, don’t miss the Triple Chocolate McFlurry while it remains available. This limited-time offering has received exceptional customer reviews and represents the most indulgent chocolate experience currently available at McDonald’s. Similarly, the returning Caramel Apple Sundae perfectly captures seasonal fall flavors for those visiting during autumn months.
Health-conscious customers seeking the lowest-calorie option should consider the vanilla cone at just 200 calories, while those monitoring sugar intake might prefer the Baked Apple Pie with its relatively modest 13 grams of sugar – significantly lower than most other options.
The mcdonald’s dessert menu continues to evolve while maintaining the core offerings that have made it a beloved part of the fast food landscape. Whether you’re satisfying a specific craving or simply looking to end your meal on a sweet note, these desserts offer accessible and familiar indulgences that have stood the test of time. By understanding the complete range of options, nutritional considerations, and ordering strategies, you can maximize your McDonald’s dessert experience in 2025 and beyond.