Frozen Desserts & Novelties

Discover the Best Frozen Desserts & Novelties to Buy in the UK: From Mochi Kits to Classic Pints

Why frozen desserts and novelties are exploding in popularity

Have you noticed how the frozen aisle feels more exciting than ever? It’s not just about a tub of plain vanilla any more — frozen desserts are a playground for creativity, nostalgia, and bold flavours. From mochi ice cream kits you can make at home to quirky character bars that spark a smile, these treats tap into our desire for fun, convenience, and a little culinary theatre. Think of the frozen aisle like a candy-coated art gallery: there’s something to delight every mood and every appetite.

Menkind — the go-to for kits, gifts and novelty desserts

Menkind has carved out a niche selling novelty items and fun food kits, so it’s no surprise they feature products like the Treat Factory Mochi Ice Cream Kit. If you love the idea of hands-on dessert making without needing a full pastry degree, Menkind’s selection aims to make that approachable. They’re great for gift ideas, party activities, or just a weekend experiment with friends.

Treat Factory Mochi Ice Cream Kit — what makes it special?

The Treat Factory Mochi Ice Cream Kit lets you shape chewy rice-flour dough around small scoops of ice cream to create mochi-style balls in minutes. Think of it like a DIY chemistry set for your freezer: quick, tactile, and oddly satisfying. If you’re chasing that delicate balance between creamy and chewy, this kit nails it without needing specialised equipment. Perfect for experimenting with flavours like mango, chocolate, or a cheeky salted caramel.

How Menkind stands out for novelty desserts and food gifts

What sets Menkind apart is the mix of novelty and accessibility. They don’t just sell the end product; they sell the experience. Kits and unusual desserts are presented as conversation starters — ideal for birthdays, quirky dinner parties, or anyone who likes their food with a side of personality. If you want to give a gift that doubles as entertainment, Menkind is a smart stop.

Supermarkets that stock the classics: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Asda

When you need reliable favourites — think pints of rich vanilla, tubs of cookie-dough, or a box of multipack ice lollies — the big supermarkets are still king. Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Asda cover the staples with wide ranges at sensible prices. Expect premium brands like Häagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry’s alongside supermarket own-brand options that punch above their weight.

Tesco — broad range and seasonal novelties

Tesco loves variety. From family-size tubs to novelty bars and seasonal limited editions, they often have the broadest range in-store. Looking for festive flavours? Tesco usually rolls out unique twists for holidays, ideal if you want something showy for a celebration.

Sainsbury’s — quality options and store-brand gems

Sainsbury’s strikes a balance between value and quality. Their own-label tubs can be a real discovery, and they frequently stock premium brands too. If you’re experimenting with plant-based or lower-sugar frozen desserts, Sainsbury’s often has thoughtful alternatives that won’t feel like compromise.

Asda — value and family favourites

Asda’s frozen selection focuses on family needs: packs of ice lollies that won’t break the bank, crowd-pleasing multipacks, and seasonal novelties aimed at kids. If you’re planning a BBQ or a kids’ party, Asda is a practical place to load up without losing quality for the price.

Iceland, Ocado and Waitrose — specialist and premium selections

If you want more specialised choices, Iceland, Ocado and Waitrose each bring something different to the table. Iceland is a frozen-food specialist, Ocado offers fantastic online curation and hard-to-find labels, while Waitrose leans into premium, small-batch and artisan options. Together they cover convenience, variety, and luxury.

Iceland — frozen specialist with interesting finds

Iceland lives and breathes frozen food. Their aisle often houses innovation: mini desserts, novelty shapes, and the kind of limited-edition flavours you won’t spot in every store. If novelty is the goal, Iceland is worth a browse — they often stock unique collaborations and quirky brands.

Ocado and Waitrose — premium and curated choices

Ocado’s strength is online curation; it’s a treasure trove for premium labels and artisanal frozen desserts that might not be easy to find locally. Waitrose focuses on higher-end offerings, including small-batch ice creams, dessert bars crafted with single-origin chocolate, and delicate sorbets. If you plan to impress guests, these retailers offer the kind of quality that feels indulgent.

Budget-friendly frozen desserts: Aldi and Lidl

Don’t underestimate Aldi and Lidl. What they lack in celebrity brands they make up for in exceptional store-brand quality. Their special-buy weeks often include cleverly made frozen desserts that rival pricier names, and they’re consistently good for budget-conscious shoppers who still want flavour and novelty.

Gourmet and artisanal contenders: independent makers and online boutiques

Beyond the chains are independent ice cream makers and online boutiques that specialise in craft frozen desserts. Think small-batch pints that use single-origin chocolate, locally sourced fruit sorbets sold in pint-sized tubs, or vegan coconut-based creations that texture just right. These are the desserts you pick when you want to elevate an occasion — like swapping a paper napkin for a linen one, dessert edition.

Where to look for artisan frozen desserts

Check farmers’ markets, local deli websites, and specialist online shops for artisan ice cream. Many makers ship frozen in insulated packaging, so you can enjoy proper small-batch pints at home. These vendors often rotate flavours frequently, so it’s a great way to explore seasonal or experimental combinations.

Trends shaping the frozen dessert scene

Which trends are worth watching? Mochi and DIY kits are big, alongside plant-based alternatives that actually mimic creamy mouthfeel. Aerated bars — think clouds of foam and ice — and hybrid desserts (cookie base topped with ice cream, anyone?) are also gaining traction. Health-conscious options like reduced-sugar or protein-fortified frozen yogurts show the market is diversifying, catering to taste and lifestyle simultaneously.

Mochi mania and why DIY kits appeal

Mochi’s chewy outer layer paired with ice cream is a texture contrast people crave. DIY kits like the Treat Factory Mochi Ice Cream Kit let you play with textures and create bite-sized treats quickly. It’s almost like crafting edible jewellery; the result looks impressive but doesn’t require a master’s touch.

Vegan and allergen-friendly novelties

Vegan frozen desserts are no longer an afterthought. Brands now deliver creamy, satisfying alternatives using bases like coconut, oat, or almond, designed to mimic dairy’s richness. The allergen-friendly market is innovating too, offering gluten-free cones and dairy-free ice creams that don’t compromise on flavour.

How to choose the perfect frozen dessert for any occasion

Choosing the right dessert is part art, part logistics. For big parties, aim for variety: a few pints, a multipack of bars, and a novelty or two to make things fun. For date nights, a premium pint or dessert bar with a bold flavour will feel luxurious. And for family treat nights, kid-friendly multipacks and DIY kits keep everyone entertained. Think about palate balance — rich chocolate alongside a bright sorbet keeps things interesting.

Portion sizes and planning

Scale by appetite: a pint usually serves two people as a dessert portion, while multipack bars serve one each. If you’re feeding a crowd, aim for one-and-a-half servings per adult to be safe. Planning ahead avoids last-minute supermarket scrambles and keeps your freezer stocked with both staples and showstoppers.

Storage and serving tips to get the best texture and flavour

Storage matters. Keep tubs sealed and avoid temperature swings — repeated thaw-and-freeze cycles ruin texture. When serving, let premium pints sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften; this unlocks the full flavour and makes scooping smoother. For bars and lollies, a quick rinse of the wrapper under cool water can prevent sticking without melting the treat.

Simple finishing touches to elevate presentation

Little details make a big impression. A small sprinkle of flaky salt over a salted caramel scoop makes flavours pop, while crushed biscuit crumbs add crunch. Serve sorbets with a sprig of fresh mint or a citrus twist for brightness. Presentation is the cherry on top of a great frozen dessert — it turns a snack into an experience.

Where to find deals and seasonal specials

Keep an eye on supermarket weekly flyers and online deal pages. Chains like Tesco and Sainsbury’s often rotate buy-one-get-one-free offers or multi-buy discounts. Iceland’s special buys and Menkind’s novelty promotions are great for scoring imaginative items at good prices. Signing up for newsletters from your favourite retailers can unlock early access to limited editions and flash sales too.

Final thoughts: make frozen desserts part of your culinary toolkit

Frozen desserts and novelties are no longer a simple afterthought — they’re versatile, social, and full of personality. Whether you’re picking up a Treat Factory Mochi Ice Cream Kit from Menkind for a crafty night in, grabbing classic pints from Tesco, or trying a rare small-batch pint from an artisan maker, the frozen aisle now reads like a menu of experiences. Treat your freezer like a pantry of joy: a mix of dependable classics, seasonal novelties, and one or two wildcards for when you want to surprise someone (or yourself).

So, next time you’re planning a party, a cosy night in, or an adventurous baking session, don’t forget the frozen section. It’s where convenience meets creativity — and where some of the best culinary memories are chilled and ready to serve.