A good ice cream cup does more than simply hold the ice cream. The right size creates a neat presentation, helps prevent spills and makes it easier to offer different portion sizes. From a single scoop to an elaborate sundae with toppings, there is a suitable size for every order.

In this blog, you will discover which ice cream cup size suits your portions, how many scoops you can serve per cup and when a lid comes in handy.

Why choosing the right ice cream cup matters

The size of an ice cream cup has major impact on how your product is presented. A regular portion can look small in a cup that is too large, while a cup that is too small may not leave enough room for sauce, whipped cream or other toppings.

With the right ice cream cup, you can:

• present every portion neatly;
• prevent the ice cream from spilling over the edge;
• offer consistent and recognisable portion sizes;
• make takeaway and transport easier;
• leave enough room for toppings.

When choosing a size, do not only consider the number of scoops. The size of your ice cream scoop, the type of ice cream and the amount of toppings also determine how much space you need.

A compact scoop of ice cream, for example, takes up less space than light and airy gelato, soft serve or frozen yoghurt. It is therefore a good idea to test the cups with your own portions beforehand.

What size ice cream cup do you need?

The number of scoops that fit into a cup is always an indication. Not every ice cream parlour uses the same scoop, and scoop sizes can vary.

The guidelines below will help you choose the right size.

120 ml (4 oz) ice cream cups

This size is suitable for one scoop of ice cream or a small portion.

The cup is particularly useful when you want to serve a single scoop without the packaging looking too large. A 120 ml cup is also a practical choice for tastings, children's portions or small desserts.

150 ml (6 oz) ice cream cups

This size is suitable for one to two scoops of ice cream.

240 ml (8 oz) ice cream cups

This size is suitable for one to two scoops of ice cream. A 150 ml cup gives you slightly more room than the smallest ice cream cup. This makes it more suitable for a slightly larger portion or one scoop with some sauce or small topping.

300 ml (10 oz) ice cream cups

This size is suitable for approximately three scoops of ice cream.

The larger size makes it easy to serve the ice cream without the cup becoming too full. A 300 ml cup is also a good choice for portions with whipped cream or several toppings.

360 ml (12 oz) ice cream cups

This size is suitable for a large sundae or frozen yoghurt with toppings.

The cup provides plenty of room for several scoops, whipped cream, sauce and other extras. This makes the 360 ml size particularly suitable for elaborate ice cream desserts and generous portions.

The exact amount will always depend on the size of the scoops and the amount of toppings. Always test which portion size works best with your own serving method.

When should you choose ice cream cups with lids?

A lid is particularly useful when the ice cream is not eaten immediately. For on-site consumption, an open cup is usually sufficient. For takeaway, delivery or pre-prepared desserts, a lid offers additional protection.

For example, choose a lid when you:

• serve ice cream to take away;
• deliver orders;
• prepare portions in advance;
• display desserts in a refrigerated display case;
• want to protect whipped cream and toppings;
• want to reduce spills during transport.

Always check whether the lid fits the cup. Pay close attention to the diameter and product information. Even a small difference in size can prevent a lid from closing properly. 

Flat or dome lid?

The type of lid you need depends on the contents of the cup.

A flat lid is suitable when the ice cream and toppings remain below the rim of the cup. This type of lid is compact, easy to store and usually easy to stack.

A flat lid is suitable for:

• individual scoops of ice cream;
• compact takeaway portions;
• pre-filled desserts;
• cups without tall toppings.

A dome lid provides additional space above the cup. This helps keep whipped cream, fruit, biscuits and other toppings intact.

A dome lid is suitable for:

• elaborate ice cream sundaes;
• frozen yoghurt with toppings;
• desserts with whipped cream;
• cups where the presentation should remain visible.

For desserts with plenty of toppings, a dome lid is usually the best choice. This helps keep the contents neat, even during takeaway.

Which ice cream spoons are suitable for your ice cream cups?

An ice cream cup naturally needs a suitable ice cream spoon. The type of spoon you choose depends on the size of the cup and the type of dessert.

For small and medium-sized ice cream cups, a compact ice cream spoon is usually sufficient. If you serve tall sundaes or desserts in deep cups, a longer spoon is more comfortable to use.

You can choose from options such as bamboo ice cream spoons or reusable spoons. Bamboo has a natural appearance, while reusable spoons can be used multiple times.

Also pay close attention to quantities when ordering. Make sure you have enough spoons in stock so that every order can be served complete.

Which ice cream cups suits your business?

The right ice cream cup depends on your portion sizes, your product range and the way you sell your ice cream. A 120 or 150 ml cup is suitable for smaller portions. Sizes between 240 and 300 ml are practical for regular portions and toppings. For large sundaes and elaborate desserts, a 360 ml cup is often the better option.

By offering several sizes, you can serve every order in a suitable cup. This ensures that the ice cream looks presentable, there is enough space for toppings and customers know exactly what portion size they are getting.

Can ice cream cups be customized?

Want to make your brand stand out even more? You can have your ice cream cups custom printed with your own logo or design. This gives every order a recognisable look and makes the packaging part of your brand.

Custom-printed ice cream cups are suitable for ice cream parlours, hospitality businesses, festivals and events. They create a professional presentation and make your brand visible while customers enjoy their ice cream.

Explore the possibilities for custom-printed products and discover which packaging suits your business.

Ice cream cups at TakeAware

Looking for high-quality ice cream cups for your ice cream parlour, hospitality business or event? At TakeAware, you will find a wide range of ice cream cups in different sizes, materials and designs.

From a small cup for a single scoop to a generous ice cream cup for sundaes, frozen yoghurt and desserts with toppings, there is always a size to suit your range.

You can also order ice cream cup lids and ice cream spoons from us. This makes it easy to order everything you need to serve your ice cream neatly and completely.

View TakeAware's full range of ice cream cups.

Auteur: Manon Schram