Are you addicted to iced coffee? I know I am. Yet, even as a huge iced coffee fan, this new TikTok trend took me by surprise. The latest TikTok trend involves literal buckets of iced coffee, served in clear plastic tubs by local coffee shops. Just a quick search on TikTok and you’ll find dozens of different videos showcasing these oversized iced coffees in all different flavors. One coffee shop, McGee Black Irish Coffee Company, is even making these delicious buckets with cannoli cold foam cream and a cannoli on top (yes, that sounds delicious).
What is an iced coffee bucket?
Is the appeal of the iced coffee bucket simply the excess quantity of iced coffee — or is it aesthetics? I asked Jennifer Stock, Senior Director of Product Management at Cuisinart, her thoughts on what’s making the iced coffee bucket gain popularity. Stock has been in charge of the beverage category for Cuisinart for the past seven years and is an avid iced coffee drinker herself. She shared:
“Coffee is more than just a caffeinated drink; to many, it’s their lifeline for the day- a therapeutic morning ritual or an anticipated afternoon reward. This trend taps into two big consumer drivers: indulgence and control. People want to experience moments of indulgence in everyday life while also controlling and customizing their beverages. And let’s not forget the visual “wow” factor. These oversized coffee buckets overflowing with cold foam and dripping caramel in a giant container look fantastic on camera,” she shares.
“[Iced coffee buckets] are playful, convenient, and eye-catching, which is why they’re resonating, especially with TikTokers who love turning everyday rituals into something fun and ‘social media worthy.” We’ve seen it pop up across our social feeds as food creators, lifestyle influencers, and even everyday consumers show off their favorite drinks this summer.”
I’d have to agree with Stock on this assessment of the iced coffee bucket. I think it’s the visual “wow” factor that’s driving the most interest in these iced coffee buckets. Sure, iced coffee is delicious, but would it be as appealing in a box (such as in cold brew on tap)? The visual appeal of the cute little coffee bucket is really what catches your eye about this trending concept.
Could the iced coffee bucket become dangerous?
There’s no question these iced coffee buckets are adorable and delicious, but my caffeine-addicted brain instantly sees one major flaw in these buckets. At over 30 ounces, these iced coffee buckets contain a massive portion of iced coffee, which contains way more caffeine than the recommended daily limit of 400 mg. Upon talking with Stock, it also came to my attention that the amount of sugar lurking in these iced coffee buckets could also be problematic.
“Although this trend is bold and creative, the downside is that with large and loaded drinks, it’s easy to lose track of just how much caffeine or sugar you’re consuming. The best way to control this is by making your iced coffee creations at home,” says Stock.
