Beyond the Cone: Expanding Your Ice Cream Cart Menu with Innovative Treats
At Business on Bikes, we’re all about helping entrepreneurs find innovative ways to grow their businesses and delight their customers. Ice cream bikes offer a unique, mobile way to serve treats that everyone loves, especially when the sun is shining. However, there’s a world of opportunity beyond the classic ice cream cone that can set your cart apart and captivate a wider audience. Let’s dive into some creative ideas to expand your ice cream cart menu with innovative treats.
Gourmet Sundaes
Transform the traditional sundae into a gourmet experience by incorporating unique flavours and high-quality ingredients. Think beyond vanilla and chocolate to offer options like salted caramel, matcha green tea, or even lavender-infused ice cream. Top these with homemade sauces, such as dark chocolate ganache or berry compote, and finish with a selection of premium toppings like handcrafted marshmallows, artisanal chocolate shards, or candied nuts. Gourmet sundaes not only elevate the ice cream eating experience but also offer an Instagram-worthy treat that customers will love to share.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
Ice cream sandwiches are a versatile and beloved option that can be customised in countless ways. Start with different cookie varieties – from classic chocolate chip and oatmeal to more adventurous flavours like red velvet or charcoal. Then, let customers choose their ice cream filling, offering a range of flavours that complement your cookie selection. For a truly unique twist, consider adding layers of texture with fillings like fruit compotes, spreads, or a sprinkle of sea salt for that irresistible sweet and salty combination.
Specialty Floats
Ice cream floats aren’t just for soda pop anymore. Experiment with a variety of cold beverages to create speciality floats that will intrigue and refresh your customers. Think about pairing craft sodas, cold brew coffee, or even artisanal teas with complementary ice cream flavours. For example, a floral hibiscus tea paired with lemon sorbet or a robust cold brew coffee with rich chocolate ice cream. These speciality floats offer a sophisticated twist on a nostalgic favourite, appealing to both traditional and adventurous palates.
Seasonal Specials
Leveraging seasonal ingredients not only supports local producers but also keeps your menu fresh and exciting. Offer special treats that celebrate the flavours of the season, such as strawberry shortcake sundaes in the summer or pumpkin spice ice cream sandwiches in the autumn. This approach not only diversifies your menu but also encourages repeat business as customers look forward to trying your latest seasonal creations.
Incorporating Vegan and Allergy-Friendly Options
With dietary preferences and restrictions more common than ever, offering vegan and allergy-friendly options can significantly broaden your customer base. Use plant-based milks and creams to create delicious vegan ice creams, and consider gluten-free cookies for your ice cream sandwiches. Clearly labelling these options and being mindful of cross-contamination will ensure everyone can enjoy your treats worry-free.
Tips for Success
- Quality is Key: Invest in high-quality ingredients to set your treats apart from the competition.
- Engage Your Customers: Use social media to showcase your innovative offerings and engage with your audience for feedback and ideas.
- Test and Learn: Don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavours and concepts, but pay attention to what sells best and adjust your menu accordingly.
Expanding your ice cream cart menu with these innovative treats not only offers something new and exciting for your customers but also sets your business apart in a crowded market. At Business on Bikes, we’re excited to see how you use these ideas to grow your ice cream bike business and create memorable experiences for your customers.
