Taco Bell is exploring the growing category of frozen coffee for the first time, as well as shakes. The company announced today that it is testing Coffee Chillers and Churros Chillers at two Southern California locations while supplies last. Starting Dec. 15, the Coffee Chillers will be available all day at a Mission Viejo, Calif., restaurant, while the Churro Chillers will be available all day at an Irvine, Calif., restaurant. The offerings are both available for $4.19
The Coffee Chillers are served in a 16-ounce cup filled with blended iced coffee and topped with a layer of cold foam. They’re available in Mexican Chocolate, Caramel Churro and Spiced Vanilla flavors. The Churro Chillers are served in a 16-ounce cup filled with a blended sweet shake and topped with a layer of cold foam and churro crumbles. They’re available in Mexican Chocolate, Dulce de Leche Coffee, Wild Strawberry and Sweet Vanilla flavors, the latter of which features a purple tint.
“We’re always pushing the boundaries to deliver bold and craveable Mexican-inspired flavors our fans have come to expect from us and these frozen drinks showcase how far our innovation goes,” CMO Taylor Montgomery said in a statement. “We are constantly listening to what our fans are craving next, and we are thrilled to offer them a frozen creation that’s just as delicious and desirable as their favorite menu item.”
Taco Bell’s test comes as the conversation surrounding specialty beverages picks up significantly, thanks in large part to McDonald’s launch of its new CosMc’s concept, as well as the staggering growth of concepts such as Dutch Bros, 7 Brew, Biggby’s, Scooter’s, and more. Last year, Gen Z consumers ordered cold coffees more than hot coffee, according to Mintel data, and chains like Starbucks and Tim Hortons now generate most of their sales through cold coffee options. According to Technomic Ignite data, the overall sales growth of cold beverages outpaced hot beverage growth in 2022, with cold beverage sales growing at a rate of nearly 15%.
Taco Bell has been on a tear with tests recently, experimenting with everything from a grilled cheese dipping taco to a Baja Blast Gelato. Check out more about some of these recent tests here.
Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]