As 2025 winds down, several fast-food chains are rolling out limited-time menu items and reviving fan favorites. From savory entrees to seasonal desserts, the updates are keeping customers engaged.
Exciting Releases During the Last Days of 2025
Here are some noteworthy releases and menu announcements by renowned food brands to end the year on a memorable note. Some items are already available, while others are still rolling out.
Comeback of Taco Bell’s Burritos & Fries
Cheesy Dipping Burritos and Steak Garlic Nacho Fries will return to Taco Bell starting December 18. One can pair it with the sauce of their choice for an ultimate savory experience.
These nostalgic fan-favorites will be available nationwide. The snack-sized burritos are available with grilled marinated steak or slow-roasted chicken. Fans can also explore the $9 Discovery Luxe Box at participating restaurants while the supplies last.
McDonald’s New Chicken Menu Testing
A new chicken menu is currently being tested at select McDonald’s locations in Chicago. From a variety of sandwiches to McCrispy Strips, here is a list of items that might make it to the nationwide menu if the testing results are successful:
- BBQ Bacon Grilled Sandwich
- McSpicy Chicken Sandwich
- Deluxe Grilled Chicken Sandwich
- Glazed McCrispy Strips in Sweet Chili, Teriyaki, or Kickin’ BBQ
- Seasoned McCrispy Strips in Spicy Garlic, Sweet Asian, or Garlic Parm
- McSpicy Bone-in Wings
- App Exclusive Big Mac Sauce Dipping Cups
Dairy Queen’s Oreo Snowdrift Blizzard
Dairy Queen has added a winter twist to the seasonal dessert option. The Oreo Snowdrift Blizzard joins the chain’s winter Blizzard lineup and is expected to remain available for a limited period.
In January, fans can try this sweet treat of cake batter flavor with Oreo cookie pieces and marshmallow swirl. As soon as Snackolator announced the upcoming Blizzard, fans expressed their excitement and eagerness to try it out.
Potato Wedges at KFC are Back
KFC has brought back potato wedges at multiple locations nationwide till supplies last. The wedges could become a permanent menu item if customer demand is strong, according to Snackolator. Previously a fan favorite, the wedges were brought back for the holiday season.
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Skillet Queso at Chili’s
Skillet Queso was part of Chili’s menu and has been reinstated since December 9, 2025. The appetizer is available again at participating locations, though the company has not indicated whether the return is permanent.
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Culver’s Frozen Cocoa Concrete Mixer
Culver’s has brought back its Frozen Cocoa Concrete Mixer, a dessert made with frozen custard and cocoa. It is a limited-time offer and can be enjoyed in cocoa flavor or with a minty twist by adding Andes Mint Candies. Participating Culver’s locations are serving the winter treat, which pairs well with other menu items.
New Flavor at Nothing Bundt Cakes
Peppermint Chocolate Chip flavor returned at Nothing Bundt Cakes on December 8. Available for a limited time, fans are happy to have this rotating menu offering. Patrons can check their local Nothing Bundt Cakes outlet for availability of the Peppermint Chocolate Chip cakes.
New Gingerbread Flavors at Dutch Bros
On November 25, Dutch Bros revealed three flavors for the December lineup for fans to have Frosted Gingerbread on their holiday table. Hot Chai, Blended Freeze, and Iced Latte are the flavors to relish on cold days. All drinks can be topped with cinnamon sprinkles for added flavor.
A mix of returning favorites and limited-time additions is driving buzz across fast-food and casual dining chains. As many of these releases are temporary, they reflect how brands continue to test products and revisit past offerings as the year concludes.
