Ice Cream Packaging Designs that Inspire in Every Scoops of Creativity

Let’s be real—picking an ice cream flavour is hard enough, but what about the packaging? Ever noticed how some ice cream tubs just call to you from the freezer aisle? That’s no accident. Behind every scoop of your favourite frozen treat is a carefully designed package that grabs attention, builds brand identity, and (let’s be honest) makes us crave ice cream even more.

And with the global ice cream market projected to reach a staggering $109.20 billion by 2025, competition is fierce. A great flavour isn’t enough — brands also have to design packaging that grabs attention. So, let’s dive into all the various ice cream packaging designs and why they do or do not work.

1. Classic Ice Cream Tubs – The Freezer Staple

Ah, the good ol’ ice cream tub—probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think about grabbing a pint. These come in all shapes and sizes, from mini single-serves to party-size containers.

Why it works: Tubs offer tons of branding space, making them perfect for eye-catching logos, playful design elements, and bold colours. Plus, they’re stackable, so they look great in freezers (both in stores and at home).

Packaging Design Tip: A child-friendly design with fun illustrations works great for family-friendly brands, while a minimalist, premium look screams luxury for artisanal ice creams.

2. Ice Cream Cups – The Grab-and-Go Favorite

For the folks who just can’t wait to get home before diving in, ice cream cups are a lifesaver. These are the single-serve cups you see at convenience stores, cafes, or at summer events.

Why it works: Portable, mess-free, and easy to eat with a spoon—what’s not to love? Plus, cups give brands space to play with branding and colour schemes, making them fun and visually appealing.

Packaging Design Tip: Try transparent packaging for a trendy look—people love seeing what they’re about to eat! It builds trust and makes the product look fresher and more premium.

3. Ice Cream Bars & Sandwiches – No Spoon, No Problem

Some of the most nostalgic treats out there, ice cream bars and sandwiches, are all about convenience. These are typically wrapped in plastic or paper sleeves, making them easy to grab and eat on the move.

Why it works: They offer instant brand recognition—think about those iconic chocolate-dipped bars or the famous cookie sandwich.

Packaging Design Tip: Since there’s limited space, focus on bold typography and strong logo design to make the brand pop. Bright, fun colours also work well, especially for summer-themed launches.

4. Popsicle Packaging – Made for Kids

Popsicles are summer’s signature, They come packaged in long, thin wrappers, and contained in them is frequently a rainbow. These packages are meant to be playful, bright, and eye-catching — especially for children.

Why it works: The designs are loud, fun, and full of personality. They also offer great storytelling potential (like using cute mascots or interactive elements).

Packaging Design Tip: Want to make an impact? Try child-friendly design with quirky characters and bright colors. If your brand is all about natural ingredients, a transparent packaging window can be a great way to show off those real fruit chunks.

5. Ice Cream Cones – The Edible Packaging (Sort of!)

While the cone itself is part of the experience, ice cream cones still come with some level of packaging—think sleeves, wrappers, or even small boxes for multipacks.

Why it works: The cone is a classic, so packaging should emphasize nostalgia, fun, and easy indulgence.

Packaging Design Tip: A playful design with a retro vibe can make a brand stand out. Bold colors, vintage fonts, and a touch of whimsy? Perfect for a product that’s all about joy.

The Secret Ingredient? A Killer Design!

At the end of the day, a great packaging design does more than just hold the product—it tells a story. It builds brand identity, sparks cravings, and (hopefully) keeps customers coming back for more. Whether it’s a premium print with a sleek logo design or a fun, colourful child-friendly label design, the right approach makes all the difference.

So next time you’re standing in front of the freezer aisle, take a second to appreciate the thought and creativity behind those tubs, bars, and cups. And then, of course, grab your favorite flavor—because that’s the best part.