Starting an ice cream truck business is a good option when venturing down the entrepreneurship route. These trucks for centuries have remained a very cherished and important part of summer, providing customers of all ages with mind-blowing refreshments that will leave them happy and eager to have more.
If you are considering starting this business and looking to come up with menu ideas that will wow your customers, below are the best-selling ice cream truck menu ideas that customers love.
Best-Selling Ice Cream Truck Menu ideas That Customers Love
-
Classic Soft Serve
Easy to recognize owing to its smooth and creamy texture, people love them because they are available in vanilla, chocolate, or a combination of both.
Another valid reason to include this in your ice cream truck menu is that it’s easy to serve directly from a machine into a cone or cup.
Aside from that, it can also be dipped in a hard chocolate shell to infuse a ravishing crunch into every bite. Consider making available toppings such as sprinkles, crushed nuts, and chocolate chips.
-
Ice Cream Sandwiches
Note that this is more or less a blend of the lusciousness of ice cream and the delectability of cookies. Known for being one of the most common items ice cream trucks can serve, it is necessary to point out that most traditional versions will encompass vanilla ice cream between two soft chocolate wafers, but there are numerous variations too. Some of the well-known include chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal cookies, or even brownies as the sandwich layers.
-
Popsicles
These are another classic favorite and are known to be very popular among younger customers. These frozen treats can be served to customers in a wide range of flavors and colors, providing a ravishing break from the heat.
You will find that a good number of modern ice cream trucks make available healthier versions made with real fruit juice, ensuring that health-conscious parents will have viable options for a guilt-free indulgence for their kids.
-
Snow Cones
Made from finely shaved ice and topped with flavored syrups, they have proven to be ideal for the hottest days. One other important fact to note is the ability to mix and match flavors, coming up with a colorful and personalized dessert.
Some of the most common flavors to provide include cherry, blue raspberry, and lime. You can also try out more exotic options like mango or piña colada.
-
Choco Tacos
Choco Tacos are a distinctive twist on traditional ice cream treats. They tend to include a taco-shaped waffle cone that is packed with creamy vanilla ice cream, covered with a chocolate shell, and finished with nuts.
Keep in mind that the combination of the crispy cone, smooth ice cream, and crunchy chocolate-nut coating ensures that customers will always enjoy this multi-textured delight.
-
Ice Cream Bars
This is a versatile option to give extensive thought, especially since your business will in many ways benefit from serving a wide range of flavors and styles.
Some of the well-known examples are vanilla ice cream coated in a thick layer of chocolate, as well as many other variations such as strawberry shortcake bars that feature a crumb coating or cookies and cream bars that come with chocolate pieces embedded in the ice cream. Your customers will love the fact that it is convenient to enjoy on the go and offer something for everyone.
-
Frozen Yogurt
Keep in mind that aside from the tangy flavour that makes it stand out, frozen yoghurt is known to be much lower in fat and calories while still ensuring that customers can enjoy its creamy texture.
Ice cream trucks can decide to serve this particular delicacy with a vast array of toppings, such as fresh fruit, nuts, granola, and chocolate chips, making it possible for customers to have a dessert that aligns with their taste preferences and dietary needs.
-
Slushies
You can’t go wrong with adding slushies to your ice cream truck menu since they are quite popular among those seeking a colorful and cooling beverage.
They are made from finely crushed ice mixed with sweet, flavored syrups. Also, note that they come in a wide variety of bright colors and flavors.
Some of the well-known choices include blue raspberry, cherry, and grape. You can also make available a vast array of tropical flavors like coconut or pineapple.
-
Drumsticks
This refers to a much-loved ice cream treat that comes with a waffle cone fully packed with vanilla ice cream and finished with a hard chocolate shell and peanuts. You will find that some have a chocolate-filled core or fudge at the bottom of the cone.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that the blend of the crunchy cone, smooth ice cream, and crispy chocolate coating makes it an enjoyable experience.
-
Sundaes
Ice cream sundaes will make your ice cream truck very popular within your location or neighborhood. Ideally, these treats come with one or more scoops of ice cream topped with a wide array of sauces and toppings.
Some of the most notable choices are hot fudge, caramel, and strawberry sauce, all topped up with whipped cream, nuts, and cherry.
These delicacies provide a whole lot of customization possibilities, making it possible for customers to come up with a tailored dessert that aligns with their cravings.
-
Bomb Pops
Bomb Pops also referred to as rocket pops, are one of the best items you can inculcate into your menu. This patriotic treat shaped like a rocket with red, white, and blue layers comes with very unique flavors—most often cherry, lime, and blue raspberry—to ensure that customers can relish this refreshing and visually appealing popsicle. Note they are very popular around national holidays.
-
Italian Ice
This refers to a smooth, semi-frozen dessert made from finely blended ice and flavored syrups. While it is quite similar to a snow cone, it is important to clarify that it possesses a smoother, more consistent texture.
Some of the most common flavors include lemon, cherry, and blue raspberry. You can choose to go with more exotic options like mango and watermelon. Italian ice is dairy-free and this makes it attractive to those with lactose intolerance.
-
Push-Up Pops
You should also look towards this fun and convenient ice cream treat. They are known to feature sherbet or ice cream in a cylindrical tube as well as a stick at the bottom that moves the ice cream up as you eat it.
Its vibrant colors and tangy flavors, often in combinations like orange, lime, and raspberry, have made it a very popular choice for both kids and adults.
-
Ice Cream Floats
Another well-known and delightful combination of ice cream and soda. Its most classic version is the root beer float, which brings together creamy vanilla ice cream with fizzy root beer. This will result in a frothy, sweet beverage.
Some other well-known variations include cola floats or orange soda floats, known for the mind-blowing and refreshing treat that soothes thirst as well as meets sweet cravings.
-
Frozen Bananas
Frozen bananas especially those dipped in chocolate are a very healthy treat that is highly sought after by people of all ages. The bananas are often rolled in nuts, sprinkles, or coconut after being dipped in chocolate to give them extra texture and flavor. These treats are a wonderful way to enjoy fruit in a fun and delicious way.
-
Mochi Ice Cream
This particular treat brings together the chewy texture of mochi (a Japanese rice cake) and the creamy ice cream inside. These bite-sized treats come in a wide range of flavors, such as:
Traditional options like green tea, red bean, and mango, in addition to more common flavors like chocolate and strawberry. Truth be told, it is a fun and exotic treat that inculcates an international flair to the menu.
-
Fudge Bars
You will love the fact that they are a simple yet indulgent treat. This particular treat is made from creamy chocolate fudge frozen on a stick. It will most definitely attract customers who are looking to enjoy a rich, velvety texture that chocolate lovers appreciate.
Also note that fudge bars are a wonderful option for an individual seeking a straightforward, no-frills dessert that aligns with their chocolate cravings.
-
Dipped Cones
One of the first things to note is that this treat is an elevated version of the classic soft serve cone when you consider the fact that the ice cream is dipped in a hard chocolate shell that immediately solidifies, guaranteeing a crunchy outer layer.
You can choose from a wide array of variations like butterscotch, cherry, or white chocolate. This a popular treat for both kids and adults who are looking to enjoy the delightful contrast between the creamy soft serve and the crispy shell.
-
Creamsicles
Creamsicles are known to bring together the soothing taste of orange popsicles with a creamy vanilla center, ensuring that your ice cream truck will be offering a blend of tangy and sweet flavors.
Aside from that, note that the smooth vanilla ice cream inside contrasts superbly with the icy orange shell, thus making this treat loved and appreciated by those who love citrus flavors.
-
Mini Sundaes
Mini sundaes make it easier for ice cream trucks to offer customers the sweetness of a traditional sundae but in a more manageable portion.
While they can be served in small cups, these treats more or less come with a scoop of ice cream topped with a choice of sauces, whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry.
Be sure to give this extensive consideration as they are known to be ideal for customers eager for a quick and satisfying dessert without the commitment of a full-sized sundae.
-
Banana Splits
You wouldn’t want to neglect this classic dessert that comes with a split banana that is finished with scoops of ice cream, most often vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.
These scoops are then topped with chocolate syrup, strawberry sauce, and pineapple chunks, and finally with whipped cream, nuts, and cherries. Note that the blend of fruit, ice cream, and various toppings works to give off a symphony of flavors and textures.
-
Frozen Lemonade
Frozen lemonade is a wonderful option when you consider that customers always ask for it due to being ideal for quenching thirst on hot days.
This slushy drink is made by blending ice with fresh lemonade, guaranteeing the tangy, citrusy treat that is known to be hydrating and exciting. Aside from that, it has proven to be a valid alternative to sweeter ice cream options.
-
Chocolate Eclairs
Very popular among modern ice cream trucks, these frozen treats look somehow like the pastry of the same name. Nevertheless, it is known to come with a rich vanilla ice cream center covered in a chocolate-flavored shell and coated with a layer of chocolate cookie crumbs.
Your customers will appreciate the mixture of creamy ice cream and crunchy coating that makes these delicious treats a must-have.
-
Chipwiches
These refer to ice cream sandwiches that utilize chocolate chip cookies rather than the normal or traditional wafers. The cookies are most often packed with vanilla ice cream and rolled in mini chocolate chips, ensuring you can attract customers who want something that is as chewy as it is crunchy. Note that the blend of cookies and ice cream makes for a wonderful, exciting experience.
-
Sorbet
Renowned as a dairy-free frozen dessert made from fruit puree and sugar, it is important to point out that it serves as a lighter alternative to traditional ice cream.
Aside from that, it is a favorite for both kids and adults owing to its intense fruit flavors, like raspberry, mango, and lemon, and its smooth, icy texture. It is also necessary to note that it is a refreshing option that is ideal for individuals dealing with lactose intolerance.
-
Ice Cream Cups
If you choose to offer these pre-packaged ice cream cups, note that you will be providing your customers with a convenient and mess-free way to enjoy ice cream.
These cups tend to come with a small wooden spoon and you can choose from a wide range of flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. Also, note that it is a wonderful option when it comes to portion control and is easy to hand out at events or parties.
-
Ice Cream Cakes
This is a combination of cake and ice cream into one mind-blowing dessert. They are known to feature layers of cake and ice cream covered with whipped cream or frosting and finished with a wide array of toppings such as sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fruit. You will do well to add this to your menu if you intend to vend at events, celebrations, and special occasions.
-
Big Sticks
These refer to large, fruity popsicles that are loved for their enticing colors and flavors. Aside from that, they are easy to recognize owing to their size as well as the intense fruit flavor that works to make a refreshing and satisfying treat. Another thing to note is that this treat is quite attractive to those who enjoy bold, fruity tastes.
-
Frozen Custard
Known to resemble ice cream, it is important to point out that frozen custard contains more egg yolk, and this leaves it with a much richer, creamier texture.
In addition, this treat can be made available in vanilla, chocolate, and seasonal flavors, and you can decide to serve it in cones, cups, or sundaes.
Keep in mind that the smooth, dense texture of frozen custard makes it a wonderful and exciting alternative to traditional ice cream.
-
Novelty Shaped Ice Cream
One thing to note about this treat is that it comes in fun, easy-to-note shapes like cartoon characters, animals, or other playful designs.
These treats are known to be very popular with children owing to their bright colors and flavors that align with their whimsical appearance. These treats will most definitely inculcate a good level of fun and excitement into the ice cream truck experience.
-
Frozen Cheesecake on a Stick
Just as honey attracts flies, this mind-blowing dessert will draw customers to your ice cream truck due to its blend of the rich creaminess of cheesecake and the easiness of a popsicle. These treats are most often considered slices of New York-style cheesecake frozen solid and dipped in a chocolate coating.
Keep in mind that the contrast between the smooth, creamy interior and the crisp chocolate shell will work to make your ice cream truck a neighborhood favorite. You can choose to include extra toppings like crushed nuts or caramel drizzle.
-
Fruit Bars
Note that this refers to a healthier frozen treat made from real fruit puree. One thing you will appreciate about it is the fact that it comes in a wide array of flavors.
They are known to be ideal for individuals who want to enjoy a natural, refreshing snack. Keep in mind that its intense fruit flavour as well as vibrant colours attract and excite both kids and adults.
-
Bubble Gum Ice Cream
Aside from the fact that it is bright pink or blue and is flavored to taste like bubble gum, keep in mind that it most often features tiny pieces of actual bubble gum mixed in, and this can be chewed after the ice cream is finished. Your customers will love its distinctive flavor as well as the playful concept that sets it apart in every ice cream truck menu.
-
Ice Cream Tacos
This is a creative twist to the well-known ice cream cone. They tend to encompass a waffle cone shell shaped like a taco, fully packed with ice cream and covered with assorted sauces and toppings.
Some of the well-known options include chocolate syrup, caramel, and sprinkles. Aside from that, they are popular and a good option because they are easy to eat.
-
Cookie Dough Ice Cream
This particular treat brings together the best of both worlds: creamy ice cream and chunks of raw cookie dough. For decades, it has remained popular, drawing in customers with its sweet and slightly gritty texture of cookie dough mixed with smooth vanilla ice cream. Some variations to take into account include chocolate chips or brownie chunks.
-
Jolly Rancher Popsicles
Another valid option to consider is these vibrant and fruity frozen treats that buttress the mind-blowing flavors of Jolly Rancher candies. These treats are known to come in a wide array of flavors like watermelon, green apple, and cherry.
In addition, with these Popsicles, your ice cream truck will seamlessly attract individuals who prefer bold, tangy flavors as well as a bright, colorful appearance.
-
Cotton Candy Ice Cream
This particular treat comes with a whimsical flavor that emulates the taste of the classic carnival treat. Aside from that being typically pastel-colored, it is known to possess a sweet, airy flavor reminiscent of cotton candy.
This ice cream most times comes with swirls of blue and pink, making it very attractive and much loved by both kids and adults.
-
Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream
This ice cream is very rich and comes with the sort of flavor that merges creamy peanut butter with chunks of chocolate peanut butter cups.
While it is super ideal for peanut butter lovers or those eager to have a decadent treat, note that its salty-sweet mixture makes it very ravishing, and the chunks of peanut butter cups inculcate another level of crunchiness to the creamy ice cream.
-
Spumoni
Spumoni is an Italian dessert that comes with layers of flavored ice creams, most often encompassing chocolate, pistachio, and cherry. Keep in mind that it also features nuts and candied fruit pieces combined into the ice cream layers.
Your customers will flock to your truck to order or enjoy this blend of flavors and textures that work to make this treat a distinctive and sophisticated option. Also, note that it will resonate with customers who want something a bit more exotic.
-
Ice Cream Pizza
You cannot afford to overlook this playful and indulgent dessert that mixes the concept of pizza with ice cream. Note that it comes with a cookie or brownie crust covered with layers of ice cream, and whipped cream, as well as other numerous toppings like chocolate chips, fruit, and candy pieces. The slices are cut like a pizza to ensure that they can be easily shared or enjoyed on the go.
-
Sundae Cones
Also referred to as Nutty Buddy or King Cones, this is one of the best options to include in your ice cream truck menu. These treats feature a flavorful waffle cone that is fully packed with vanilla ice cream, covered with a hard chocolate shell, and finished with crushed nuts.
You can choose to make versions like fudge-filled core or caramel layer. But irrespective of the versions you choose to make, your customers will love the mixture of creamy ice cream, crunchy cone, and chocolate topping.
-
Chocolate-Dipped Bananas
To make them, ensure that whole bananas are frozen and then dipped in rich chocolate. You can choose to give it extra flair by sprinkling it with toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or coconut. Nevertheless, it is a sweet and unique treat that brings together the natural sweetness of bananas and the decadence of chocolate.
-
Smoothies
Without arguments, smoothies are refreshing as well as a wonderful addition to any ice cream truck menu. You will have to make them with fresh fruit, yogurt, and ice.
Keep in mind that this blended drink remains a must-have for individuals who want a nutritious and cool beverage. These drinks have proven to be the most exciting way for people to enjoy the natural sweetness of fruit in a portable and refreshing format.
-
Gelato
This is an Italian-style ice cream well renowned for its dense and creamy texture owing to the usage of more milk and less cream.
You will also love the fact that they can be made in a vast array of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more distinctive options such as pistachio and tiramisu. You will attract numerous customers who are eager to enjoy the intense flavor and smooth texture of these mind-blowing treats.
-
Sorbetto
Although often mistaken for sorbet, keep in mind that sorbetto comes with a much smoother texture as well as obvious fruit flavors.
It is important to note that they are made without dairy, and this makes them a very good and unique option for individuals who are lactose intolerant or vegan. Also note that these treats can be made in flavors such as lemon, raspberry, and blood orange.
-
Milkshakes
Another well-known option to infuse into your ice cream truck menu is a classic ice cream truck offering that will most definitely ensure you attract a good number of customers.
Note that this treat is made by blending ice cream with milk to come up with a thick, creamy drink. Aside from that, they can be tailored with a wide array of flavors and toppings, including chocolate syrup, whipped cream, and sprinkles.
- Ice Cream Burritos
Quite popular for being a playful and indulgent dessert option, they are known to come with a massive colorful cotton candy or crepe “tortilla” wrapped around scoops of ice cream and numerous toppings such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, and whipped cream. Keep in mind that this treat excites persons who are willing to explore multiple textures and flavors in a portable format.
48. Vegan Ice Cream
Made without any form of animal products, this particular ice cream is made with bases such as almond milk, coconut milk, or cashew milk.
It comes in a vast array of flavors, from classic chocolate and vanilla to more unique options like salted caramel and peanut butter chocolate chip.
This particular ice cream is known to be ideal for individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences, ensuring that they can still relish a creamy and delicious alternative to traditional dairy ice cream.