Carvel ice cream menu prices are something you want to check before you visit, especially if you are planning a party or just a sweet treat. Carvel ice cream offers soft serve and their iconic Fudgie the Whale cake for any celebration, but knowing the costs helps you budget better. Whether you are grabbing a cone or ordering a custom cake, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about Carvel’s current menu and pricing.
Carvel has been around since 1934, and they are famous for their soft serve ice cream and ice cream cakes. Their menu is pretty straightforward, but prices can vary by location. This article gives you a clear picture of what to expect when you walk into a Carvel shop.
Carvel Ice Cream Menu Prices Overview
Carvel keeps things simple with a focus on soft serve, sundaes, shakes, and their famous ice cream cakes. The prices here are based on typical franchise locations across the United States. Keep in mind that prices may be higher in cities like New York or Los Angeles.
Here is a quick look at the most popular items and their average prices:
- Soft Serve Cone (small): $3.50 – $4.50
- Soft Serve Cone (regular): $4.50 – $5.50
- Soft Serve Cup (small): $3.50 – $4.50
- Soft Serve Cup (regular): $4.50 – $5.50
- Fudgie the Whale Cake (8-inch): $24.99 – $29.99
- Fudgie the Whale Cake (10-inch): $34.99 – $39.99
- Cookie Puss Cake (8-inch): $24.99 – $29.99
- Cookie Puss Cake (10-inch): $34.99 – $39.99
- Round Ice Cream Cake (8-inch, 2 layers): $29.99 – $34.99
- Round Ice Cream Cake (10-inch, 2 layers): $39.99 – $44.99
- Ice Cream Sundae (small): $5.99 – $6.99
- Ice Cream Sundae (large): $7.99 – $8.99
- Milkshake (regular): $6.99 – $7.99
- Milkshake (large): $8.99 – $9.99
- Floats: $5.99 – $6.99
- Banana Split: $8.99 – $9.99
- Ice Cream Sandwich: $4.99 – $5.99
- Soft Serve Quart (to-go): $8.99 – $10.99
- Soft Serve Gallon (to-go): $15.99 – $18.99
Soft Serve Cones And Cups
Carvel’s soft serve is the base of almost everything on the menu. It is a vanilla and chocolate swirl that is creamy and light. You can get it in a cone or a cup.
Prices for cones and cups are usually the same. A small size is perfect for kids or a light snack. A regular size is more filling and comes with a bigger portion.
- Small Cone/Cup: $3.50 – $4.50
- Regular Cone/Cup: $4.50 – $5.50
- Add sprinkles: $0.50
- Add chocolate dip: $1.00
Fudgie The Whale Cake
Fudgie the Whale is probably Carvel’s most famous cake. It is a whale-shaped ice cream cake with chocolate and vanilla soft serve, a layer of fudge, and crunchy chocolate bits. It comes with a message on the cake, like “Happy Birthday” or “I Love You.”
The price depends on the size. The 8-inch cake feeds about 8-10 people. The 10-inch cake feeds about 12-16 people.
- 8-inch Fudgie the Whale: $24.99 – $29.99
- 10-inch Fudgie the Whale: $34.99 – $39.99
- Custom message: included
Cookie Puss Cake
Cookie Puss is another iconic Carvel cake. It is shaped like a character with a cookie face and ice cream body. It is similar to Fudgie but has a different shape and design.
- 8-inch Cookie Puss: $24.99 – $29.99
- 10-inch Cookie Puss: $34.99 – $39.99
- Custom message: included
Round Ice Cream Cakes
If you want a more traditional cake shape, Carvel offers round ice cream cakes. You can choose between chocolate and vanilla soft serve layers. You can also add a custom message and decorations.
These cakes are great for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration. They come in two sizes.
- 8-inch Round Cake (2 layers): $29.99 – $34.99
- 10-inch Round Cake (2 layers): $39.99 – $44.99
- Add extra fudge layer: $3.00
- Custom design: $5.00 – $10.00 extra
Sundaes And Shakes
Carvel’s sundaes are made with soft serve and topped with hot fudge, caramel, or strawberry syrup. You can also add whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry. Shakes are thick and creamy, made with soft serve and your choice of syrup.
- Small Sundae: $5.99 – $6.99
- Large Sundae: $7.99 – $8.99
- Regular Shake: $6.99 – $7.99
- Large Shake: $8.99 – $9.99
- Add extra syrup: $0.75
- Add whipped cream: $0.50
Other Menu Items
Carvel also has a few other treats you might want to try. These include floats, banana splits, and ice cream sandwiches. They are all made with their soft serve.
- Float (soft serve with soda): $5.99 – $6.99
- Banana Split: $8.99 – $9.99
- Ice Cream Sandwich (two cookies with soft serve): $4.99 – $5.99
- Soft Serve Quart: $8.99 – $10.99
- Soft Serve Gallon: $15.99 – $18.99
How To Order From The Carvel Menu
Ordering at Carvel is easy. You can walk into any shop and order at the counter. You can also order online for pickup or delivery through third-party apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats.
Here is a step-by-step guide to ordering:
- Decide if you want a cone, cup, cake, or sundae.
- Choose your flavor: vanilla, chocolate, or swirl.
- If ordering a cake, pick the size and design.
- Add any toppings or extras you want.
- Pay at the counter or online.
- Enjoy your treat right away or take it to go.
Tips For Saving Money At Carvel
Carvel ice cream menu prices can add up, especially if you are ordering for a group. Here are some tips to save money:
- Look for coupons in the Carvel app or on their website.
- Sign up for their email list to get special offers.
- Buy a gallon of soft serve for parties instead of individual cups.
- Order a larger cake if you are feeding a crowd; it is often cheaper per serving.
- Check for seasonal promotions, like holiday-themed cakes.
Customizing Your Carvel Cake
One of the best things about Carvel is that you can customize your ice cream cake. You can choose the flavors, add extra fudge layers, and write a personal message. This is great for birthdays, graduations, or just because.
Here is how to customize a cake:
- Choose the shape: round, Fudgie the Whale, or Cookie Puss.
- Pick the soft serve flavors: vanilla, chocolate, or both.
- Decide if you want a fudge or crunch layer.
- Add a custom message (up to 20 characters usually).
- Choose any extra decorations like sprinkles or cookie pieces.
- Place your order at least 24 hours in advance.
Carvel Ice Cream Menu Prices By Location
Prices at Carvel can vary depending on where you live. Franchise owners set their own prices, so a cone in New York City might cost more than one in a small town. Here is a general idea of price differences:
- Urban areas (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago): Prices are 10-20% higher.
- Suburban areas: Prices are close to the averages listed above.
- Rural areas: Prices may be slightly lower.
Always check the menu board at your local Carvel or look online for the most accurate prices. You can also call ahead to ask about specific items.
Carvel Vs. Other Ice Cream Chains
Carvel is not the only ice cream chain out there. Here is how their prices compare to other popular brands:
- Dairy Queen: Similar prices for soft serve and cakes. DQ’s Blizzards are more expensive than Carvel’s shakes.
- Baskin-Robbins: Slightly higher prices for scoops and cakes. Baskin-Robbins has more flavor options.
- Cold Stone Creamery: More expensive for custom creations. Cold Stone’s mix-ins cost extra.
- McDonald’s: Cheaper for soft serve cones, but no cakes or sundaes.
Carvel is a good middle-ground option. You get quality ice cream and cakes at reasonable prices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carvel Ice Cream Menu Prices
Does Carvel Have A Secret Menu?
Carvel does not have an official secret menu, but you can ask for custom combinations. For example, you can request a sundae with extra fudge or a shake with cookie pieces mixed in. Some locations will make a “freakshake” if you ask nicely.
Are Carvel Ice Cream Cakes Cheaper Than Store-bought Cakes?
Carvel cakes are usually more expensive than a regular grocery store cake, but they are cheaper than custom bakery cakes. For a special occasion, many people find the price worth it for the taste and novelty.
Can I Get A Discount On Carvel Ice Cream Cakes?
Yes, sometimes. Carvel runs promotions like “buy one get one free” or percentage off cakes. Check their website or app for current deals. You can also ask at the counter if they have any specials.
How Much Does A Carvel Ice Cream Cake Cost For 20 People?
For 20 people, you would need a 10-inch round cake or two 8-inch cakes. A 10-inch cake costs about $39.99 – $44.99. Two 8-inch cakes would cost about $49.98 – $59.98. This is a good option if you want different flavors.
Do Carvel Prices Include Tax?
No, the prices listed are before tax. Sales tax varies by state and city. You should expect to pay an additional 5-10% on top of the menu price.
Final Thoughts On Carvel Ice Cream Menu Prices
Carvel ice cream menu prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes you get. Their soft serve is a classic, and their cakes are perfect for celebrations. Whether you are buying a single cone or a custom cake, you can find something that fits your budget.
Remember that prices can change, so always check with your local Carvel before ordering. Use the tips in this guide to save money and get the most out of your visit. Carvel is a great choice for a sweet treat that everyone will enjoy.
If you are planning a party, consider ordering a Fudgie the Whale or a round cake. They are crowd-pleasers and come at a good price. For a quick snack, a soft serve cone is hard to beat. Carvel has been serving happy customers for decades, and their menu continues to be a favorite.
So next time you are in the mood for ice cream, check out Carvel. You will find a menu that is simple, tasty, and affordable. Just remember to look for deals and order ahead for cakes. Enjoy your Carvel treat!