What are the common sizes of ice cream paper cups?

In the procurement and customization of ice cream paper cups, the most commonly used standard sizes are mainly concentrated in three "golden specifications": 3 ounces (approximately 90ml), 5 ounces (approximately 150ml), and 8 ounces (approximately 240ml). 3 ounces is typically used for single scoops or samples, 5 ounces is the most mainstream container for double scoops or standard portions on the market, while 8 ounces and larger sizes are mostly used for sundaes with rich toppings, yogurt ice cream, or takeaway packaging. As a professional ice cream paper cup manufacturer, we recommend that businesses consider not only the capacity but also the specific product category (such as Italian Gelato, American soft serve, or yogurt) when choosing the height and diameter of the cup.

1. Why is choosing the right ice cream paper cup size important?

For ice cream shops, dessert stands, or restaurant chains, ice cream paper cups are not just containers, but also a key tool for controlling costs and enhancing customer experience.

Cost control: Choosing a cup that's too large can lead to employees overfilling, resulting in uncontrolled raw material costs; choosing one that's too small can cause toppings to spill, affecting aesthetics.

Visual marketing: The appropriate ice cream paper cup size can make the ice cream scoop look fuller and more appealing (the "full cup effect"), stimulating consumers' desire to take photos and share them.

2. Detailed specifications breakdown: Which ice cream paper cup does your store need?

Although ice cream paper cups support non-standard customization, industry-standard mold specifications are more cost-effective. Below is a detailed table of sizes and corresponding scenarios:

(1) Small sample size: 3oz - 4oz (approximately 90ml - 120ml)

These ice cream paper cups are designed for children's meals, sampling events, or delicate single-scoop Gelato.

Applicable scenarios: Supermarket sampling, kindergarten activities, small portions of Italian ice cream.

Manufacturer's suggestion: These cups have a smaller diameter; we recommend using bright, customized printing designs to attract attention.

(2) Mainstream Best-Selling Group: 5oz - 6oz (approximately 150ml - 180ml)

If you only plan to purchase one size, then 5oz is the most forgiving option. It's the standard container for a single scoop (large scoop) or double scoop (small scoop).

Core Advantages: Most brands use this as the standard size for their ice cream paper cups. It has a comfortable grip and is suitable for eating on the go.

Suggested Pairing: Can be paired with a transparent dome lid, which protects the ice cream's shape and makes it convenient for takeout.

(3) Deluxe Sundae Group: 8oz - 12oz (approximately 240ml - 350ml)

When your product involves a variety of toppings (such as cookie crumbs, fruit, jam) or focuses on frozen yogurt, large-capacity ice cream paper cups are a must.

Wide-Mouth Design: To showcase the abundant toppings, these ice cream paper cups are usually designed with a wide mouth and a short body, making it easy for customers to scoop out the delicious contents at the bottom.

(4) Family Sharing/Takeout Group: 16oz - 32oz (approximately 470ml - 1000ml)

With the booming takeout market, the demand for large-capacity ice cream paper cups has surged. These cups usually require thicker paper weight and double-sided lamination to ensure they don't soften or leak during low-temperature transportation.

3. Technical Requirements for Custom Ice Cream Paper Cups: Materials and Processes

After confirming the size, many customers overlook the importance of the material. High-quality ice cream paper cups must have "low-temperature resistance" and "anti-condensation" properties.

Food-Grade Lamination: This is the baseline for a qualified ice cream paper cup. We usually use 18g-20g PE or environmentally friendly PLA lamination to prevent the liquid from melted ice cream from penetrating the cup.

Stiffness and Feel: In a frozen environment, inferior paper cups tend to soften. We recommend using high-grammage virgin wood pulp paper to ensure the cup body remains firm.

Printing Safety: Since it's packaging that comes into direct contact with food, the printing on ice cream paper cups must use soy ink or UV odorless ink, complying with national QS food safety standards.

Choosing ice cream paper cups starts with selecting the right size, while the material and printing process are crucial for ensuring brand quality. Whether you need classic 5-ounce standard cups or large 16-ounce tubs for takeout, finding a direct manufacturer of ice cream paper cups can save you significant costs and provide professional design and layout services.