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Ice Cream Cup Size Guide: Picking the Perfect Sizes for Your Menu

By Nikita Nielsen · 18. July 2024

Choosing the right ice cream portions for your menu is the first step to providing a great ice cream experience.

Once you’ve decided on the ideal portion sizes, the next step is to find the perfect ice cream cups to match!

This blog post covers everything you need to know about selecting the right ice cream cup sizes to cater to all appetites and preferences.

Exploring the Range of Ice Cream Cup Sizes

Different Sizes of Ice Cream Cups Different Sizes of Ice Cream Cups

A variety of ice cream cup sizes are available, including standard options like 3 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz, 20 oz, and 32 oz.

These various sizes cater to different serving quantities and offer flexibility in managing portion control.

Standard Ice Cream Cup Sizes

Selecting the right paper ice cream cup sizes plays a crucial role in serving your delightful frozen treats.

From petite single scoops to generous servings for groups, these cups cater to varied appetites and preferences.

Here’s a look at the standard sizes available:

  • 3 oz: Ideal for sample sizes or children’s servings, these cups often hold one small scoop of ice cream. They’re perfect when you want to offer a taste without overwhelming your customer with quantity.
  • 12 oz: A step up, these are suited for regular servings, including two to three scoops of ice cream. They provide enough space for some toppings too, making them a popular choice on many menus.
  • 16 oz: These larger containers can comfortably accommodate three to four generous scoops, ideal for those who love their ice cream with extra toppings or mixed flavours.
  • 20 oz: Designed for true ice cream aficionados or sharing among friends, the 20 oz cups support larger portions that include multiple scoops and ample room for toppings and mix-ins.
  • 32 oz: The largest size typically offered, these voluminous cups are great for family-sized servings or particularly indulgent treats like sundaes and parfaits that include several types of ice cream and layers of toppings.

Choosing between these sizes allows businesses to manage portion control effectively while catering to the diverse preferences of their customers.

Selecting the Perfect Cup Sizes for Your Menu 🍨

Choosing the right size ice cream cups for your menu has a direct impact on how you serve different amounts of ice cream.

The more diverse your menu is – from simple scoops in a 3 oz cup to extravagant sundaes served in 16 oz cups – the more you cater to everyone’s preferences.

For those considering how many sizes of ice cream cups to have on their menu or which ones are ideal, it’s important to consider both small and large portions.

A 14 oz ice cream cup is perfect for medium-sized portions, while 16 oz cups with lids are ideal for larger takeaway orders.

Each variety satisfies different appetites and influences portion control and the choice of ice cream cup size needed for serving.

This ensures customers get their favourite treat exactly the way they love it, while allowing businesses to manage portion sizes efficiently.

Ice Cream Cup Sizes to Satisfy Every Appetite 🍧

mans hand holds paper cup of ice cream mans hand holds paper cup of ice cream

When selecting the ideal ice cream cup size, consider how much you plan to serve and portion control.

Evaluate the different types of ice cream treats you offer, such as scoops, sundaes, and frozen yoghurt, to determine which sizes best suit your menu.

Smaller Servings (10 oz and below)

Smaller options, 10 oz and below, serve as an excellent choice for single scoops, children’s servings, or for customers who prefer a lighter treat.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of why these smaller sizes might be the most ideal ice cream cup sizes for your menu:

  • Satisfy Different Customer Needs: Offering cups that hold 10 oz or less allows you to serve everything from a modest single scoop to slightly heftier servings suitable for sundaes and parfaits, without overwhelming customers who prefer smaller portions.
  • Cost-Efficient Serving Solutions: Using smaller cups can help in managing inventory and reducing wastage. For instance, the 4 oz cup represents an economical option that still delivers on quality and visual appeal.
  • Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: By including smaller size options in your assortment, you cater to those looking for portion control or wanting to indulge in multiple flavours without overcommitting to a large container.
  • Customisation Opportunities: Smaller cups don’t limit branding opportunities; they equally support custom printing options allowing your brand to shine through personalised touch points that resonate well with both existing and potential customers.
  • Optimal Menu Variety: Incorporating a range of sizes up to 10 oz encourages variety in your menu offerings without overwhelming your inventory management systems. This strategic approach ensures you have just the right size available for any customer request or serving need.

Larger Servings (14 oz and above)

Larger ice cream cup sizes, starting from 14 oz and above, cater to those desiring a generous serving or looking to share.

These options are excellent for sundaes, frozen yoghurt, and other ice cream desserts that call for more space and creativity.

  • Satisfy Large Appetites: Cups of 14 oz and larger are perfect for customers who have a big craving or want an indulgent treat. They can hold ample amounts of ice cream along with various toppings, making every scoop a delight.
  • Shareable Portions: With sizes extending up to 32 oz, these cups encourage sharing among friends and family. It aligns perfectly with the growing trend of communal dining experiences.
  • Versatile Uses: Beyond ice creams, the larger cups serve multiple purposes. During colder months, they can be ideal for serving warm soups, showcasing their versatility.
  • Custom Branding Opportunities: Larger cups offer more space for branding and personalised printing. Businesses can leverage this by adding their logos or unique designs to create a memorable customer experience.
  • Enhanced Menu Appeal: Including larger cup sizes on your menu caters to varied customer preferences. It demonstrates an understanding of different appetites and enhances the overall appeal of your menu offerings.

Deciding on the Perfect Cup Sizes 🍦

Choosing the right ice cream cup sizes for your menu means thinking about your serving needs and what your customers want.

It’s a good idea to offer a variety of sizes, from smaller cups under 10 oz for those who want a light treat, to larger ones over 14 oz for those looking for a more indulgent dessert.

This way, you can enhance customer satisfaction while optimising portion control.

Summary

When choosing the right size ice cream cups for your business, it’s important to find a balance between what you need operationally and what your customers want.

By offering a mix of sizes – smaller cups under 10 oz for those who want a quick treat, and larger cups over 14 oz for people who want something more substantial or to share – you cater to a wide range of tastes and appetites.

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