McDonald’s has been home to some of the most iconic fast-food items, serving millions of customers with classics that have stood the test of time. But over the years, the fast-food giant has also quietly discontinued several beloved menu items, leaving fans craving their return.
From the ever-popular Snack Wrap to the short-lived McCafé Bakery items, here’s a deep dive into the McDonald’s favorites that have disappeared—and what’s still available to satisfy your cravings.
McCafé Bakery Items: Gone Too Soon
Despite launching with high hopes in 2020, the McCafé Bakery lineup, including items like the blueberry muffin, cinnamon roll, and apple fritter, has already been phased out.
Customers looking for a sweet McCafé fix now have to stick to classic options like the baked apple pie and chocolate chip cookie.
While these bakery items enjoyed a short run, McDonald’s is clearly focusing on maintaining its core dessert offerings instead of experimenting with newer varieties.
McSpaghetti: A Forgotten Fast-Food Pasta
Yes, McDonald’s once offered spaghetti and meatballs. Known as McSpaghetti, this unusual menu item debuted in the 1970s but was phased out by 1980 due to poor demand in the U.S.
However, McSpaghetti has found a niche in international markets, particularly in the Philippines, where it’s still available today.
Snack Wraps: A Missed Favorite
Snack Wraps, once a go-to for a quick bite, were officially discontinued in the U.S. in 2016. The decision left many fans disappointed, though the item remains available in several international locations.
With other fast-food chains like Burger King offering similar wraps, McDonald’s has yet to answer U.S. customers’ pleas for the return of this beloved item.
Chicken Selects & Buttermilk Crispy Tenders: A Crunchy Loss
McDonald’s Chicken Selects and Buttermilk Crispy Tenders were famous for their juiciness and crispy texture.
These tenders made multiple comebacks over the years, but they were finally removed from the menu, leaving customers with Chicken McNuggets as the only tender-like option available.
While nuggets are still a classic, fans of heartier chicken items lament the loss of these more substantial offerings.
McSalad Shakers: Ahead of Their Time
Introduced in 2000, McSalad Shakers were an innovative way to enjoy salads on the go, featuring a cup that allowed diners to shake their salad ingredients together.
Despite the concept’s appeal, these salads were discontinued in 2003, much to the dismay of fans who now see them as a precursor to today’s trendy mason jar salads.
Cinnamon Melts: The Sweet Goodbye
Fans of cinnamon-based desserts were left heartbroken when Cinnamon Melts, essentially a deconstructed cinnamon roll, were removed from the menu.
Though no longer available, McDonald’s patrons can find solace in other menu items or try making similar treats at home, like cinnamon roll casserole or cinnamon bun cookies.
McDonaldland Cookies: A Nostalgic Treat
McDonald’s once offered McDonaldland Cookies, a staple of Happy Meals in the 80s and 90s. These fun-shaped, animal-themed cookies were adored by kids and adults alike but were discontinued years ago. However, fans in Australia still enjoy these nostalgic treats, where they continue to be served as a dessert option.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich: A Health-Conscious Option Gone
McDonald’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich, a healthier alternative to the fried options, was removed from the menu in 2020. For those missing this option, making a similar grilled chicken sandwich at home is possible with just a few ingredients and the right seasoning.
What’s Still Available?
Despite discontinuing several popular items, McDonald’s continues to serve a host of classic fan favorites, from the Big Mac to the Filet-O-Fish. Additionally, they frequently introduce limited-time menu items and international flavors, keeping the menu fresh and exciting for its loyal customers.
Table of McDonald’s Discontinued Items
| Discontinued Item | Year Introduced | Year Discontinued | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| McCafé Bakery Items | 2020 | 2023 | Blueberry muffin, cinnamon roll, and apple fritter |
| McSpaghetti | 1970 | 1980 (US) | Spaghetti and meatballs, still available in the Philippines |
| Snack Wraps | 2006 | 2016 | Available in some international markets |
| Chicken Selects & Crispy Tenders | Early 2000s | 2020 | Juicy and crispy tenders, now only Chicken McNuggets available |
| McSalad Shakers | 2000 | 2003 | Salad served in a shakeable cup |
| Cinnamon Melts | 2005 | 2016 | Deconstructed cinnamon rolls |
| McDonaldland Cookies | 1970s | 2003 | Nostalgic cookies for kids, available in Australia |
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich | 2000 | 2020 | Healthier grilled chicken alternative |
Conclusion:
While McDonald’s continues to innovate and offer new items, the fast-food chain has retired several beloved menu items over the years, leaving some fans yearning for their return.
Whether it’s the Snack Wrap or McCafé Bakery treats, the golden arches have shown that they’re not afraid to shake up their offerings. However, customers can still enjoy plenty of other classic favorites and keep an eye out for future menu surprises.
FAQs
1. Why did McDonald’s discontinue Snack Wraps in the U.S.?
McDonald’s discontinued Snack Wraps in the U.S. in 2016 due to operational complexity and longer preparation times. While they remain popular in other countries, the U.S. market hasn’t seen their return.
2. Can I still get McSpaghetti at any McDonald’s locations?
Yes, McSpaghetti is still available in the Philippines, though it has been discontinued in the U.S. since 1980.
3. Will McDonald’s bring back the McCafé Bakery items?
McDonald’s has not announced any plans to bring back the McCafé Bakery items that were discontinued in 2023, though they often experiment with new menu offerings.
4. Why were Chicken Selects and Buttermilk Crispy Tenders removed from the menu?
Chicken Selects and Buttermilk Crispy Tenders were discontinued as part of McDonald’s efforts to simplify its menu, focusing more on core items like Chicken McNuggets.
5. What healthier alternatives does McDonald’s offer now that the Grilled Chicken Sandwich is gone?
While the Grilled Chicken Sandwich is no longer available, McDonald’s still offers options like the Filet-O-Fish, salads, and lower-calorie items from its breakfast and Happy Meal menus.