Remember when holidays meant limited-time fast food magic? From Biscoff shakes to turkey-stuffed sandwiches, fast food chains had some seriously iconic holiday treats. They came, they dazzled, and they were gone. Here are nine fast food Christmas specials we wish would make a comeback.
8. Arby’s Christmas Dish Collections
Before fast food chains focused on edible promotions, Arby’s offered something truly special during the 1980s Christmas seasons: collectible dish sets. These were ceramic dishes that families could use for their holiday meals. Each purchase came with a piece of the collection, encouraging customers to return and complete the set. It was a marketing strategy that made Arby’s feel more like a family tradition than just another fast food chain.
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7. McDonald’s Christmas McNugget Boxes with Special Sauces
Every December in the 1990s, McDonald’s transformed their regular McNuggets into a festive experience using special Christmas-themed boxes and exclusive holiday dipping sauces. The most memorable was the orange cranberry sauce, which captured the flavors of the season. The limited-time sauces made even the most familiar menu item feel new and exciting.
6. Jack in the Box’s Biscoff Shake
Jack in the Box’s “24 Days of Jackmas” promotion in 2024 featured the iconic Biscoff Shake. This limited-time treat blended the caramelized cookie butter flavor of Biscoff with Jack in the Box’s creamy vanilla shake, creating a holiday dessert that was unique and incredibly delicious. It was a classic example of a brand taking a popular European flavor and turning it into a must-have American holiday special.
5. Sonic’s Holiday Mint Master Shake
Sonic’s holiday drink menu is always a treat, but the Holiday Mint Master Shake was a true standout. This festive shake combined Sonic’s real ice cream with the refreshing flavor of mint. It was a simple yet delicious combination that captured the essence of the season in a cup. It was the perfect companion for a drive to see Christmas lights, and we’re hoping Sonic brings back this masterpiece for another holiday season.
4. IHOP’s Milk ‘n’ Cookies Pancakes
IHOP’s Milk ‘n’ Cookies Pancakes were a dream come true for anyone with a sweet tooth. This holiday special featured buttermilk pancakes loaded with OREO cookie pieces and layered with a sweet milk mousse. Toppings included more mousse, a vanilla sauce drizzle, more OREO crumbles, powdered sugar, and festive red and green sprinkles. This over-the-top creation was like having dessert for breakfast, and it was a hit with both kids and adults.
3. Taco Bell’s Caramel Apple Empanada
Taco Bell’s Caramel Apple Empanada was a dessert that combined the flavors of fall and winter. This warm, crispy pastry was loaded with sweet, gooey caramel and chunks of real apple, making it a comforting treat. While it has made brief appearances on the “Decades Menu,” its inconsistent availability has left fans wanting more.
2. Subway’s Holiday Sub with Cranberry Dijon
Subway’s first-ever festive menu in 2024 was a welcome surprise, and the Holiday Sub with Cranberry Dijon came out as the star. This sandwich featured a combination of turkey, ham, and your choice of veggies, all topped with a tangy-sweet cranberry dijon sauce. It was a refreshing take on a holiday meal, and it was a welcome change from the usual fast food fare.
1. Pizza Hut’s Holiday Stuffer
Pizza Hut’s Holiday Stuffer from 1992 is the stuff of legend. This pizza was loaded with ten toppings: pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, Italian sausage, bacon, beef, ham and pork toppings, onions, and green peppers. It was so heavy and loaded it often required a fork and knife to eat. The Holiday Stuffer was a feast, and it was the perfect meal for a family gathering during the Christmas season.
