A new frozen treat just landed—but not everyone’s sold
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A fast food giant recently launched a bold frozen drink nationwide this spring that has stirred a lively debate online.
This latest concoction mixes a classic summer flavor with a surprising twist.
The question many are asking: Is this a clever innovation or an uninspired imitation of a rival’s beloved beverage?
The answer seems to depend on who you ask.
In celebration of National Strawberry Month, which takes place every May, the chain introduced a limited-time Frozen Strawberry & Nerds Candy drink at thousands of locations. The icy slush promises a burst of strawberry flavor topped with crunchy, colorful candy bits, evoking childhood nostalgia.
The chain even sweetened the deal by offering the drink free with any $1 purchase via their app until the end of the month. Despite the enticing offer, customer reactions have been mixed, highlighting a split between those who enjoy the playful treat and others who find it off-putting.
Some customers have not held back their critiques. One called the drink, “It's a cup of confused ice that has the consistency of a slush-covered city sidewalk in early February.”

The candy topping didn’t escape criticism either, described by another diner as “sugar-gravel.” For these fans, the combination of icy slush and crunchy candy clashed rather than complemented.
However, the new frozen treat also has its defenders. Many praised it as “good,” “refreshing,” and a welcome addition to the menu. One loyal fan suggested a simple hack: “Maybe just grab a spoon and eat the candy first.”
Another summed it up: “Slushes are ALWAYS cold and refreshing, and this one was no exception!”
This drink’s arrival also invites comparisons to a similar strawberry option from a longtime competitor. That rival’s version focuses on a strawberry lemonade made with “real strawberries picked at peak freshness,” boasting no artificial colors, flavors, or high fructose corn syrup.
This strawberry lemonade offers a more classic, natural take on the flavor, attracting fans who prefer a smoother, fruit-forward experience.
Also read: Big changes are coming to Burger King—and you might notice them soon!
Though not a direct copy—the toppings alone differentiate the two—both beverages clearly target the same summer crowd. The choice boils down to whether you want your strawberry fix with a side of nostalgic candy crunch or a straightforward, fresh lemonade.
This isn’t the first time the fast food giant has experimented with frozen drinks. Previous launches have included playful flavors like cotton candy, tropical mango, and tart pink lemonade.
Some found lasting success, while others quietly left menus as the seasons changed. Meanwhile, the rival chain has been shaking up its dessert lineup with new Frosty variations, intensifying the competition for summer dessert lovers.
Also read: Burger King is handing out free items all week—are you in on the deal?
Fast food fans also have plenty of value meal options to consider alongside their frozen treats. Current deals from the big players include:
So, how should consumers judge this new frozen concoction? Is it a bold innovation or just a misstep? It largely depends on individual tastes and tolerance for a candy topping mixed with slush.
If you enjoy sweet, icy drinks with a playful crunch, this could be your new summer guilty pleasure. If you prefer smooth slushies or classic flavors, you may want to stick with tried-and-true options or explore that competitor’s strawberry lemonade.
Read next: A new frozen drink adds a fun candy twist—and there's a way to get it for FREE
Have you tried this frozen treat yet? Is it a hit or miss? Do you see it as a clever twist or a copycat? And what’s your favorite fast food summer order? Share your thoughts and hacks with our community to help settle the debate—one sip at a time.
This latest concoction mixes a classic summer flavor with a surprising twist.
The question many are asking: Is this a clever innovation or an uninspired imitation of a rival’s beloved beverage?
The answer seems to depend on who you ask.
In celebration of National Strawberry Month, which takes place every May, the chain introduced a limited-time Frozen Strawberry & Nerds Candy drink at thousands of locations. The icy slush promises a burst of strawberry flavor topped with crunchy, colorful candy bits, evoking childhood nostalgia.
The chain even sweetened the deal by offering the drink free with any $1 purchase via their app until the end of the month. Despite the enticing offer, customer reactions have been mixed, highlighting a split between those who enjoy the playful treat and others who find it off-putting.
Some customers have not held back their critiques. One called the drink, “It's a cup of confused ice that has the consistency of a slush-covered city sidewalk in early February.”

Burger King recently launched a bold frozen drink nationwide this spring that has stirred a lively debate online. Image Source: Frozen Strawberry & NERDS / Burger King
The candy topping didn’t escape criticism either, described by another diner as “sugar-gravel.” For these fans, the combination of icy slush and crunchy candy clashed rather than complemented.
However, the new frozen treat also has its defenders. Many praised it as “good,” “refreshing,” and a welcome addition to the menu. One loyal fan suggested a simple hack: “Maybe just grab a spoon and eat the candy first.”
Another summed it up: “Slushes are ALWAYS cold and refreshing, and this one was no exception!”
This drink’s arrival also invites comparisons to a similar strawberry option from a longtime competitor. That rival’s version focuses on a strawberry lemonade made with “real strawberries picked at peak freshness,” boasting no artificial colors, flavors, or high fructose corn syrup.
This strawberry lemonade offers a more classic, natural take on the flavor, attracting fans who prefer a smoother, fruit-forward experience.
Also read: Big changes are coming to Burger King—and you might notice them soon!
Though not a direct copy—the toppings alone differentiate the two—both beverages clearly target the same summer crowd. The choice boils down to whether you want your strawberry fix with a side of nostalgic candy crunch or a straightforward, fresh lemonade.
This isn’t the first time the fast food giant has experimented with frozen drinks. Previous launches have included playful flavors like cotton candy, tropical mango, and tart pink lemonade.
Some found lasting success, while others quietly left menus as the seasons changed. Meanwhile, the rival chain has been shaking up its dessert lineup with new Frosty variations, intensifying the competition for summer dessert lovers.
Also read: Burger King is handing out free items all week—are you in on the deal?
Fast food fans also have plenty of value meal options to consider alongside their frozen treats. Current deals from the big players include:
- A Taco Bell's $7 Luxe Cravings box features a variety of tacos, burritos, chips with nacho cheese, and a medium drink.
- McDonald’s $5 meal with a choice between two classic sandwiches, chicken nuggets, fries, and a small drink.
- Wendy's $5 Biggie Bag bundle offers a junior burger or chicken sandwich, nuggets, fries, and a small drink.
- Burger King's $5 Your Way Meal is a customizable meal including a junior-sized sandwich, fries, nuggets, and a soft drink.
So, how should consumers judge this new frozen concoction? Is it a bold innovation or just a misstep? It largely depends on individual tastes and tolerance for a candy topping mixed with slush.
If you enjoy sweet, icy drinks with a playful crunch, this could be your new summer guilty pleasure. If you prefer smooth slushies or classic flavors, you may want to stick with tried-and-true options or explore that competitor’s strawberry lemonade.
Read next: A new frozen drink adds a fun candy twist—and there's a way to get it for FREE
Key Takeaways
- The chain launched a limited-time Frozen Strawberry & Nerds Candy drink nationwide for National Strawberry Month, with some customers able to get it free via the app.
- Fan reactions are mixed, ranging from harsh criticism calling it an “abomination” to praise for its refreshing qualities.
- Online reviews suggest some enjoy the flavor but recommend eating the candy topping separately for the best experience.
- The drink competes with a similar strawberry lemonade from a rival, sparking comparisons as summer heats up.