What is a Grandma McFlurry? McDonald’s tapping into social media for inspo

McDonald’s is currently promoting a new Grandma McFlurry, a vanilla ice cream treat made with chopped candy pieces. It is available for purchase for a limited time.

But what is it, exactly?

McDonald’s says the new McFlurry “is sweet — just like grandma — and features a delicious syrup and chopped, crunchy candy pieces (like grandma’s favorite treat that she hid in her purse!) — all blended in our creamy vanilla soft serve.”

Customers chatting online say it has a butterscotch flavor.

“Grandmas have always held a special place in our hearts, and today they’re having a major moment influencing culture — inspiring trends in fashion, decor and now, even food with our newest McFlurry,” said Tariq Hassan, chief marketing and customer experience Officer for McDonald’s.

Is McDonald’s marketing to Gen Z? It’s likely, since “grandmacore,” “grandparentcore” and “cottagecore” are popular terms used on Reddit, Pinterest and TikTok. The terms describe an aesthetic that inspires coziness and warmth and things that remind folks of grandmothers.

“Grandmacore” is about nostalgia and reminding folks of the comforts their grandparents may provide. Think handmade quilts, dainty tea cups, antique furniture and florals.

McDonald’s limited-time Grandma McFlurry launched at participating locations on May 21.

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