Labubu Ice Cream: The Most Viral Dessert of 2025 (and How to Make It)

Labubu ice cream is captivating dessert lovers everywhere—merging whimsical design with mouthwatering taste in a way that few confections dare to. Inspired by the mischievous Labubu character from The Monsters toy series, this viral dessert has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of food lovers across Asia and now the U.S. From TikTok to food festivals, Labubu ice cream is more than just a trendy snack—it’s a full sensory experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Labubu ice cream. You’ll learn about its origin, the ingredients that make it stand out, and why it’s gone viral online. We’ll show you how to make it at home, explore the health facts, and compare it to other famous frozen treats. Plus, we’ll include expert tips, real reviews, and answer the most frequently asked questions.

The Rise of Labubu Ice Cream

What is Labubu Ice Cream and Where Did It Originate?

Labubu ice cream isn’t your typical frozen dessert. This treat draws its charm from Labubu, the cheeky and adored figure from The Monsters—an iconic collectible series created by artist Kasing Lung. Labubu’s cute, wild expression is often recreated in dessert form using edible art. The result? A fusion of kawaii culture and creamy sweetness that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.

Originally debuting in East Asia, particularly in themed cafes and dessert shops in Taiwan and Hong Kong, Labubu ice cream quickly gained cult status. Its artistic presentation—featuring Labubu’s recognizable face sculpted from mochi, cream, or icing—makes it instantly shareable on social media platforms.

Viral Trends: How TikTok and Instagram Made It Famous

Labubu Ice Cream shot to global fame through viral TikTok and Instagram Reels, with creators sharing everything from flavor reactions to imaginative homemade spins. With hashtags like #LabubuIceCream and #CuteDesserts, influencers helped transform this novelty treat into a full-blown trend.

Why did it explode so fast? It checked all the boxes of a viral food item:

• Visually irresistible
• Emotionally nostalgic (especially for toy collectors)
• Uniquely textured and flavored
• Instantly shareable

Even celebrities and food bloggers jumped on the trend, helping Labubu ice cream enter mainstream dessert menus and festivals across Asia and beyond.

Unique Ingredients That Set Labubu Ice Cream Apart

Flavor Profile Breakdown: Creamy, Chewy, and Sweet Layers

Labubu ice cream is far more than just cute—it’s a multi-layered dessert that delivers a unique combination of textures and flavors. Unlike traditional soft serve or gelato, Labubu ice cream includes:

• Chewy elements like mochi or tapioca pearls
• Creamy bases such as milk tea-flavored ice cream or vanilla bean custard
• Topped in layers with sweetened condensed milk, rich brown sugar syrup, swirls of chocolate, and crunchy cookie crumbles

Each bite offers a contrast: soft and chewy, sweet and slightly savory, cold and melt-in-your-mouth. These textures make Labubu ice cream appealing to a wider audience—including those who usually shy away from standard frozen treats.

The addition of Asian-inspired flavors like matcha, black sesame, or taro adds an exotic twist, while the classic milk tea base ties it back to the boba craze, making it a perfect bridge between East and West dessert lovers.

Special Ingredients: Is There a Secret Recipe?

The magic of Labubu ice cream isn’t just in its design—it’s in the ingredient synergy. Though recipes vary, some of the common core ingredients include:

What makes each serving special is its handcrafted artistry. Shops and home chefs often customize each Labubu’s expression using:

• Chocolate chips for eyes
• Edible color gel for facial outlines
• Whipped cream for dimension
• Shaved ice or flavored foam for the “hair”

Some high-end dessert cafes even add gold leaf or flavored edible glitter, making it more of a statement piece than just a dessert.

Labubu Ice Cream: The Most Viral Dessert of 2025 (and How to Make It)

Recipe by LeoCourse: DessertCuisine: Asian FusionDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

This adorable, chewy-meets-creamy treat combines rich milk tea or vanilla ice cream with mochi and edible decorations shaped like the beloved Labubu character.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract or milk tea concentrate

• 1/2 cup mochi balls or mini boba (optional)

• Chocolate chips (for decoration)

• Edible gel or food markers (for drawing the face)

• Labubu silicone mold

Directions

• Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
• In a separate bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and flavoring (vanilla or milk tea).
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the sweetened milk mixture to keep the texture light and airy.
• Stir in the mochi or boba.
• Pour mixture into Labubu molds and freeze for at least 4 hours.
• Remove from molds and decorate with chocolate chips and edible gel to create Labubu’s face.
• Serve immediately with your choice of toppings like crushed cookies or syrup.

Notes

• Tip: Lightly oil the mold or dip in warm water for a few seconds before unmolding to keep the face shape intact.
• Optional: Replace dairy cream with coconut cream for a vegan-friendly version.
• Add crushed Oreos or sprinkles for extra texture and color.

How Labubu Ice Cream is Made

The Step-by-Step Process of Making Labubu Ice Cream

Creating Labubu ice cream isn’t just about flavor—it’s an edible art project. Whether made in specialty dessert cafés or at home, the process focuses on combining creamy textures with creative visuals. Here’s a typical step-by-step breakdown of how this unique dessert comes to life:

1. Choose the Base Flavor
   Most recipes start with a smooth base like milk tea, vanilla bean, or matcha. These provide a neutral canvas that complements various toppings.
2. Prepare the Molds
   For authenticity, chefs use silicone molds shaped like Labubu’s head or facial features. This is what transforms regular ice cream into the character-themed dessert fans love.
3. Layer in Chewy Ingredients
   Soft mochi pieces, tapioca pearls, or jelly cubes are placed between the scoops or as a core filling to deliver contrast in every bite.
4. Freeze and Set
   The ice cream mixture is frozen in layers to maintain form and texture. It’s crucial to get the freeze time right to avoid cracking the delicate face design.
5. Decorate with Edible Features
   Using chocolate pieces, whipped cream, food-grade pens, and icing gels, creators outline Labubu’s eyes, teeth, and iconic mischievous smile.
6. Add Toppings
   Depending on the flavor theme, toppings like Oreo crumbs, strawberry syrup, gold flakes, or popping candy are added for extra flair and texture.
7. Serve with a Story
   Many cafés serve it on collectible Labubu-themed plates or include a small toy for fans. Presentation is just as important as flavor.

Traditional vs. Commercial Preparation

There’s a big difference between homemade Labubu ice cream and the high-volume versions produced by commercial vendors. Here’s a quick comparison:

Both versions offer a delightful experience, but if you’re after creativity and fun, the homemade route allows for total personalization. On the other hand, if you’re craving a quick bite of nostalgia and visual delight, commercial Labubu treats are a great grab-and-go option.

Where to Buy Labubu Ice Cream

Best Stores and Cities to Find Labubu Ice Cream

As Labubu ice cream continues to gain popularity, more dessert spots are featuring it on their menus—especially in Asia and select international foodie hotspots. While still a niche treat, it’s now easier to find if you know where to look.

Here are some popular cities and regions where you’re most likely to find Labubu ice cream:

Most of these shops highlight the visual appeal of Labubu ice cream, often presenting it with collectible plates, mini figurines, or themed packaging. Since this dessert is heavily tied to visual storytelling, shops that specialize in Instagram-worthy treats are your best bet.

Online Ordering Options and Delivery Services

If you’re outside major metro areas, don’t worry—you can still experience Labubu ice cream from home.

Here are a few options:

• DIY Kits on Etsy and Amazon
  These include Labubu-shaped molds, edible markers, and ingredients for making your own at home.
• Asian Dessert Retailers
  Sites like YamiBuy or Weee! occasionally list pre-made Labubu ice cream pints or themed mochi desserts.
• Local Specialty Bakers
  Many U.S.-based bakers and small businesses now offer custom Labubu cakes and frozen novelties via Instagram or TikTok shops.

Be sure to read reviews before ordering, especially when buying pre-decorated versions. Some sellers ship only locally due to melting risks.

DIY Labubu Ice Cream at Home

Simple Homemade Labubu Ice Cream Recipe

Can’t find Labubu ice cream in your city? No problem—you can make it at home with a few simple tools and ingredients. The key is balancing visual creativity with rich, creamy flavor.

Here’s a beginner-friendly recipe that recreates the iconic Labubu look and taste:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract or milk tea concentrate
• Mochi balls or mini boba (optional)
• Chocolate chips and edible gel (for decorating the face)
• Food-safe Labubu-shaped silicone mold (can be found on Etsy or Amazon)

Instructions:

1. Whip the Cream
   Using a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until it holds firm, fluffy peaks.
2. Mix Condensed Milk + Flavor
   In a separate bowl, combine condensed milk with vanilla or milk tea flavoring, stirring until the mixture is silky and well blended.
3. Fold Mixtures Together
   Carefully blend the whipped cream into the milk mixture, maintaining a soft, airy texture.
4. Add Chewy Elements
   Stir in mini mochi or boba if using, then spoon the mixture into molds.
5. Freeze in Molds
   Place in the freezer for a minimum of 4 hours, or until fully set and firm. Carefully remove from molds.
6. Decorate Labubu’s Face
   Use melted chocolate, edible ink, or decorative gel to illustrate Labubu’s lively expression—complete with wide eyes, a cheeky grin, and those trademark jagged teeth.
7. Serve & Enjoy
   Serve immediately with crushed cookies, syrup, or toppings of your choice.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid When Making It at Home

Making Labubu ice cream can be super fun, but here are a few pro tips to avoid common pitfalls:

Pro Tip: Want more chew? Fold in taro paste or black sesame swirl before freezing for an authentic Asian dessert texture.

Nutrition and Health Facts

Calories, Sugar, and Fat Content Breakdown

Labubu ice cream is a decadent treat, but like any dessert, it’s important to understand what you’re actually consuming—especially if you’re indulging often. Here’s a breakdown of a typical serving size (1 mold-shaped portion) of homemade Labubu ice cream (about 150g):

Depending on the toppings and base (e.g., matcha vs. milk tea, mochi vs. fruit), the numbers can fluctuate. Toppings like condensed milk and chocolate add to the calorie count, while using plant-based creamers can reduce fat slightly.

Is Labubu Ice Cream Healthy? Pros and Cons

Let’s be real—Labubu ice cream isn’t a “health food”, but it’s not the worst thing you could eat either. Here’s a quick breakdown of the benefits and drawbacks:

Pros:

• Portion controlled: Each mold gives you a set, small serving
• Can be customized: Use low-sugar or dairy-free options at home
• Includes real ingredients: Some versions use natural flavors like taro, matcha, or fresh fruit
• Joyful eating experience: Adds emotional satisfaction to eating

Cons:

• High sugar and fat content: Especially from sweetened condensed milk and whipped cream
• Low in fiber or micronutrients: It’s dessert, after all
• Tempting to overeat: It’s cute, delicious, and hard to stop at one

If you’re watching your sugar or trying to eat clean, consider a modified version using:

• Coconut milk or oat milk instead of heavy cream
• Natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit
• Fruit-based toppings instead of chocolate syrup

Customer Reviews and Social Buzz

What People Are Saying About Labubu Ice Cream Online

The internet has played a massive role in Labubu Ice Cream’s explosive rise. From TikTok reviews to YouTube shorts and foodie blog posts, people are going wild over the presentation, flavor, and creativity of this adorable dessert.

Here’s a roundup of some common reactions:

• TikTok Creators
  Food influencers regularly post reaction videos unboxing Labubu ice cream, often exclaiming over how “too cute to eat” it looks. Some even do taste tests blindfolded to focus purely on texture and flavor.
• Instagram Posts
  Labubu-shaped scoops flood IG feeds under hashtags like #labubuicecream, #cutedesserts, and #kawaiitreats. Aesthetics are everything here—followers love the edible art and charming expressions drawn on each scoop.
• YouTube Shorts & Reels
  Fans post how-to tutorials, with homemade versions gaining traction. Some videos have over 1M views, especially the ones showing the decorating process.
• Food Bloggers
  Several have written about the emotional nostalgia Labubu evokes, noting that it’s more than a dessert—it’s “a joyful experience for the kid inside every adult.”

Real User Reviews and Viral Moments

Here’s what real users have said across platforms:

“I thought it would be just cute, but the flavor is surprisingly rich. The mochi layers are a game-changer.”
— @sweettooth_craze (Instagram)

“My daughter screamed when she saw it. We kept one in the freezer just to look at it.”
— Sophia T., Yelp reviewer (Los Angeles pop-up)

“Blame TikTok for this craving—but honestly, no regrets at all.”
— Jason Lee, TikTok creator with 500K+ followers

“Best part? It’s fun to eat AND to make. I felt like I was building a toy.”
— @homechef.luna (YouTube Shorts)

Social Media Stats (As of 2025):

• #LabubuIceCream on TikTok: 9.3M views
• Instagram posts under #labubu: 180K+
• Etsy DIY kits sold (2024–2025): 12,000+ units

With viral moments like “Labubu bites back” face reveal reels, this dessert doesn’t just go on your plate—it takes over your feed.

The Future of Labubu Ice Cream

Will the Trend Last? Industry Predictions

Like all viral food trends, Labubu Ice Cream faces the challenge of staying relevant after the initial hype dies down. However, experts in the food and dessert industry believe this treat is not just a passing fad—and here’s why:

1. Crossover Appeal
   Labubu ice cream appeals to a wide audience: dessert lovers, toy collectors, anime fans, and content creators. This cross-market relevance gives it more staying power than typical one-hit-wonders.
2. Brand Collaborations
   With big names like Sanrio, LINE FRIENDS, and even boba tea chains embracing character-based desserts, it’s likely that Labubu-themed treats will appear in more official collaborations soon.
3. Scalability for Cafés and Franchises
   The format—custom molds, easy-to-make cream base, edible decorations—makes it ideal for dessert shops and franchises looking for Instagrammable menu items.
4. Cultural Longevity
   In regions like Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, character-themed food is a permanent subculture, not just a novelty. Labubu fits this niche perfectly and has room to evolve.

Innovations and Flavors Coming Soon

As demand grows, so will innovation. Here are a few new directions Labubu Ice Cream is expected to take:

• Limited Edition Seasonal Flavors
  Think pumpkin spice Labubu for Halloween, cherry blossom flavor for spring, or mango matcha for summer festivals.
• Vegan & Dairy-Free Options
  To reach more health-conscious audiences, creators are exploring coconut cream or oat-based Labubu variations without sacrificing texture.
• Interactive Kits for Kids & Collectors
  Labubu DIY ice cream kits bundled with collectible accessories are in development, especially as merch-driven dessert culture gains traction.
• Multimedia Integration
  As Labubu continues to grow as a character brand, ice cream collabs may include AR filters, in-app rewards, or loyalty programs in cafés.

Ultimately, Labubu Ice Cream is evolving into something much more than a dessert—it’s an experience, a brand, and a cultural phenomenon.

Conclusion

Labubu ice cream isn’t just another dessert—it’s a celebration of art, culture, and flavor. What started as a creative nod to a popular toy character has evolved into a full-blown viral trend that’s spreading joy across continents. Whether you’re enjoying it from a café in Tokyo or your kitchen at home, Labubu ice cream delivers a one-of-a-kind experience that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

With its visual charm, chewy-creamy texture, and endless customization options, Labubu ice cream is here to stay. And now, you know everything about it—from its viral beginnings to how you can whip it up in your own kitchen.

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