What is a Smarties McFlurry?
The Smarties McFlurry is a popular dessert that combines McDonald's creamy, whipped vanilla soft serve with colorful crushed Smarties candy. The appeal of this dessert lies in the contrast between the smooth, milky ice cream and the satisfying, crunchy texture of the candy pieces. Unlike the American Smarties candy, the Smarties used in the McFlurry, particularly in Canada and the UK, are a type of milk chocolate covered in a crisp sugar shell, similar to M&Ms but with a distinct flavor and texture.
The Core Components
A Smarties McFlurry is relatively simple in its construction, which is part of its charm. The two main ingredients are the soft serve and the candy mix-in.
- Vanilla Soft Serve: The base of any McFlurry is McDonald's classic vanilla soft serve. Its ingredients generally include milk products, sugar, and stabilizers like guar gum and carrageenan to create its signature creamy texture.
- Crushed Smarties: The crushed Smarties are what give this McFlurry its name and flavor. These are small, milk chocolate candies with a hard sugar coating that provides a satisfying crunch. The coloring for the shells is derived from natural sources, such as spirulina, turmeric, and anthocyanin, and the candy also contains wheat flour and modified corn starch.
Regional Availability and History
The Smarties McFlurry has a particularly interesting history tied to its Canadian origins. It was invented in Canada in 1995 and was one of the original McFlurry flavors available. The dessert was discontinued in Canada in 2015, which sparked a significant social media outcry and even online petitions from fans. Due to this demand, McDonald's Canada brought the Smarties McFlurry back to its menu in 2021.
Its availability varies significantly by region. While it is a permanent fixture or a rotating favorite in Canada and parts of Europe, it is not consistently available in the United States. This difference often leads to confusion for US customers who are more familiar with the chalky, tablet-style Smarties candy, which is sold under the name 'Rockets' in Canada.
Nutritional Information and Allergens
For those monitoring their diet, it is helpful to know the nutritional content. A regular-sized Smarties McFlurry from McDonald's Canada contains approximately 600 calories, with high levels of sugar and carbohydrates. The exact nutritional breakdown can vary based on the portion size and specific regional recipes. As a dessert, it should be consumed in moderation.
Allergen information is also critical, especially for those with sensitivities. The Smarties McFlurry typically contains common allergens due to its ingredients and production environment. The milk chocolate contains dairy, and the sugar shells contain wheat. McDonald's also notes that cross-contamination with other allergens, including soy and tree nuts, is possible because equipment is shared for multiple menu items.
McFlurry Production and Customization
The process of creating a McFlurry involves blending the mix-in with the soft serve using a specialized, long-handled spoon that attaches to a machine. This ensures the toppings are evenly distributed throughout the dessert, creating the characteristic swirl.
For those who crave a little extra indulgence, some regions, including Canada, offer the option to add extra toppings like hot fudge to their Smarties McFlurry, adding another layer of flavor and texture.
Smarties vs. M&M's: A Comparison Table
| Feature | Smarties | M&M's (Milk Chocolate) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | UK / Canada | USA |
| Candy Shell | Harder, crunchier, and more matte finish | Softer, thinner, and glossy finish |
| Chocolate Flavor | Often described as less sweet and more chocolate-forward | Known for a distinct, sweet milk chocolate taste |
| Availability | Primarily UK, Canada, and parts of Europe (as a chocolate candy) | Widely available globally |
| Coloring | Uses 100% natural colours in many regions (UK/Canada) | Uses artificial colors and dyes in some markets |
| Taste Profile | Crisp shell with smooth chocolate; can have a slight cinnamon-graham taste | Classic sweet milk chocolate flavor |
How to Recreate a Smarties McFlurry at Home
If you're in a region where the Smarties McFlurry isn't available, or you simply want to make one at home, it's a relatively easy dessert to recreate. The key is to source the right type of Smarties and follow the steps below.
- Gather Ingredients: You will need quality vanilla ice cream, a splash of cold milk, and Nestle's Smarties candy (the UK/Canadian chocolate version). You can also add hot fudge for an extra touch, just like the Canadian option.
- Soften the Ice Cream: Allow the vanilla ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature for a few minutes. This is crucial for achieving the classic soft-serve texture.
- Crush the Smarties: Place the Smarties in a bag and use a rolling pin or the bottom of a glass to crush them. Aim for a mix of smaller pieces and larger chunks for better texture.
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened ice cream with the cold milk. Mix briefly with a spoon or electric mixer on low speed until it reaches a smooth, consistent texture.
- Fold in the Candy: Add most of the crushed Smarties into the ice cream mixture and fold them in gently. Don't overmix; you want to see streaks of candy throughout.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the mixture to a cup. Garnish with the remaining crushed Smarties and any additional toppings, like hot fudge. Enjoy immediately.
Conclusion
The Smarties McFlurry is more than just a dessert; it's a cultural staple in certain regions, particularly Canada, with a legacy that showcases the power of customer demand. It combines a simple concept—creamy vanilla soft serve with a chocolate candy mix-in—into a beloved treat. By understanding its key ingredients, regional variations, and nutritional profile, fans can appreciate this dessert even more. Whether you’re ordering one at a McDonald’s location where it's available or trying a homemade version, the Smarties McFlurry delivers a delicious combination of creamy and crunchy textures that has stood the test of time.
The Evolution of the McFlurry
Since its invention, the McFlurry has featured an array of different mix-ins beyond just Smarties. This demonstrates McDonald's commitment to dessert innovation and catering to diverse regional tastes. Other popular flavors include Oreo, SKOR, and limited-time seasonal options like the Cadbury Creme Egg McFlurry. The adaptability of the McFlurry platform is what has allowed it to remain a staple on menus around the world for decades. Learn more about how McDonald's adapts its menus globally.
