Every once in a while, Burger King decides to switch things up by changing certain menu items around and getting rid of certain promotions. We really miss some of these discontinued Burger King items.
Cupcake Shake
Some menu items are weird, some strange, some downright disgusting. The Cupcake Shake was anything but. If you’re a fan of thick milkshakes, this was for you.
This was just as delicious (and sweet) as it sounds. It was a yellow cake-flavored milkshake that was topped with whipped cream and colorful sprinkles.
It’s unfortunately no longer around. It only ran for one year, being taken off the menu in 2010. But that doesn’t mean we can’t dream!
Crown-Shaped Nuggets
Well, who said that fun nuggets are only for kids? Burger King gave everyone what they really wanted when they released their own version in 2006.
What were they? Exactly what they sounded like: the chain’s chicken nuggets shaped like crowns. Do we need nuggets shaped like crowns? No, but we want them!
Honestly, we can’t imagine why they were discontinued in 2011. They returned for a short while in 2021, but Burger King took them away just as quickly.
Shake ‘Em Up Fries
Whereas some of the items here have petitions of people calling for their return, you’ll see no such thing for Shake ‘Em Up Fries. There is one, but only 41 people have signed it.
It was basically a bag of their regular signature French fries with a side of the cheese seasoning of your choice. You poured the seasoning in (as much as you wanted) and shook them all up in the bag.
After 2002, they faded into total obscurity. We can’t really imagine what was going through the Burger King execs’ minds at the time, but we hope it never happens again.
Whopperito
Seriously. It was ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles wrapped in a tortilla instead of put on a bun, like a normal burger.
This sounds a lot like something Taco Bell tried out back in the day. While burger tacos might be a cool recipe to try your hand at in your own kitchen, fast food joints just can’t seem to get it right.
It was topped with queso sauce instead of ketchup or mustard. Why? We may never know. It was created in 2016 and didn’t last long, and honestly… maybe we don’t miss this one.
Chicken Tenders
Yes, Burger King still has Chicken Nuggets. One Reddit user wrote that they missed, “Burger King’s original chicken tenders (the toasty, lightly-peppered variety, not this bland crap they serve now).”
We think this was a terrible idea, maybe even worse than McDonald’s ditching their Chicken Selects. Sometimes chicken nuggets just don’t cut it, you know?
In order to compete with the McDonald’s chicken nugget, they swapped out their tenders for something more similar. They made a huge mistake by getting rid of them, though.
Burger Shots
Burger Shots were available back in 2008, when they were sold in six-packs and two-packs. Each pack contained mini Burger King burgers, which basically looked exactly like White Castle burgers.
To make them different from White Castle, they removed the onions, and, apparently, all the reasonable cooking methods that went along with grilling sliders.
In the end, that’s what did them in. Even though the Burger Shots weren’t terrible, people seemed to have preferred White Castle’s tried and true sliders.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is starting to be seen more and more as the days gone. However to believe it was once at BK is pretty wild.
Oatmeal comes and goes, but from Burger King not so much. Even with the fixings they included, it just was not very popular.
Burger King has some other staples that are way more worth considering. Also, just wait till lunch and get a Whopper.
Meatloaf Sandwich
The meatloaf sandwich…Another no-go. People love meatloaf and some love it in sandwich form too, but to think that Burger King actually came out with this…
It did not last, and we don’t need to explain much about why. The best meatloaf is made at home, not in the back of a fast food restaurant.
When somebody is at Burger King, they want a juicy whopper. Not a slice of meatloaf between to slices of bread!
Frozen Lemonade
Frozen lemonade is a super refreshing beverage served at plenty of different fast food locations. It’s somewhat surprising that BK didn’t get this right.
It’s no more than crushed ice with lemon juice that’s heavily condensed with sugar. It is also heavily tasty. Especially if you’re already a fan of lemonade.
Burger King is not necessarily known for its drinks. It will be a different story if they can get one of these right.
Grilled Pacific Salmon Burger
Where to even begin here. The salmon burger, it came, it went, it saw, and it most certainly did not conquer…it was not meant to be.
Burger King here made an attempt to be “oceanic” but fell very short. A low-quality salmon patty just is not very tasty.
No amount of sauce or fixings would help. The salmon burger was just not a fine point of BK’s, unlike some others…
Ribs
The pork ribs were debuted in 2010 as a limited-edition item. They became so popular that Burger King sold 10 million of them and actually ran out a week before the limited offer was ending.
It may have been because they were made of real meat instead of frozen meat, like other fast food joints. Plus, Burger King just didn’t have high hopes for this promo.
Unlike some of their discontinued menu items, these sold out much quicker than expected. They were completely unprepared for the possibility for success, and haven’t brought back the ribs since.
Satisfries
Satisfries were a “healthier” alternative to French fries: they contained 40% less fat and 20% less calories. They were fried in a less porous batter that helped them absorb less oil.
Unfortunately, they lasted less than a year — as it turns out, “healthy” fast food just doesn’t perform well. Not to mention that they were more expensive.
Also, it’s pretty hard to convince the public that Burger King can be healthy. When you go to Burger King, you’re looking for some greasy fast food.
Enormous Omelette Sandwich
In 2005, Burger King introduced this huge breakfast item. If we’re still talking in terms of health, this breakfast sandwich was the exact opposite of Satisfries.
The sandwich contained 330 milligrams of cholesterol and 1940 milligrams of sodium, and was eventually discontinued in the U.S.
They actually caused Burger King’s sales to increase. However, once word got out just how unhealthy it was, sales slowly trickled out until the item was eventually taken off the menu.
Firecracker TenderCrisp
There were two versions, which were supposed to be a more upscale version of a regular chicken sandwich. The Firecracker version used a smoky, bold spicy sauce instead of mayo.
Before you start panicking, don’t worry: TenderCrisps, in general, are still around. For some reason, the Firecracker didn’t last very long — maybe they were just trying too hard?
It’s possible that people just preferred the sandwiches that they were already familiar with. That would explain why it arrived and eventually faded away without any fanfare.
Burger King Bundles
In 1987, the Bundles were around, and they were just mini burgers that came in packs of three. White Castle dominated the sliders game then, too, so they didn’t perform super well.
What’s worse is that they had pretty much all the same cooking problems they later had with the Shots, too. The patties were too small to grill, presenting a myriad of pesky issues for Burger King fry cooks.
Seriously, wouldn’t you kind of like one of these little sliders right about now? If there weren’t so many technical problems with making them, we think they’d have a fighting chance.
Western Whopper
It doesn’t make any sense. But the Western Whopper, which was a regular Whopper burger with the addition of bacon and smoky barbecue sauce, was still pretty tasty.
Since it’s Burger King, there’s endless versions of the Whopper. If you were a fan of the Western Whopper in the 90s, something similar was released in 2022 — but only in Japan.
It’s called the Western Smoky Whopper. It has lettuce, onions, tomatoes, and a special barbecue sauce. Though it was limited edition, maybe it’s a sign that these types of Whoppers are on the come up.
Fiery Chicken Fries
Burger King obliged and brought back their Chicken Fries, which you can still get. But you can’t get the Fiery Chicken Fries, which were a limited-edition offer in 2015.
They only lasted in stores for about a month, though we wish they would have lasted longer. Still, we have to admit that it was a good marketing scheme.
Since then, Burger King has been experimenting with all kinds of new Chicken Fries flavors. In Boston, they released Chicken Parm and Chicken & Waffle Fries flavors, albeit for a limited time only.
Dutch Apple Pie
Okay, this one is another surprise. McDonald’s has mastered the apple pie and many assumed that Burger King would be able to as well.
One would have hoped this could work, but sadly no. The apple pie concept just wasn’t meant for the people of Burger King.
It is a somewhat tough thing to do. You are making a delicious pie handheld. If you can nail it though, it will be popular no doubt!
Mozzarella Sticks
Another bummer! Mozzarella sticks are fantastic and go perfectly with a side of marinara sauce. Its a can’t-miss.
Somehow Burger King couldn’t get these to stay despite popularity. Good cheese isn’t cheap however! Could be why…
Mozzarella sticks have worked at a couple different fast food joints. The trick is breading them right. You have to make ’em crispy!
Grilled Dogs
Hot dogs are a great fast food item. They just typically aren’t seen at some of the bigger chains. Sonic rocks them though!
Something was a bit tricky about nailing these. Even with mustard and ketchup. And of course the relish too.
Hot dogs are fantastic at ball games, sometimes at a bar, or at a BBQ. You wouldn’t normally expect to find one at BK.
Fruit Loop Shake
Fruit loops are some peoples favorite cereal, by a long shot. Its not surprising why, fruit loops are fantastic.
Fruit Loop milkshakes sound about as good as it gets. Not only is it in the ice cream, but used as a topping too!
Unfortunately it just was not possible for this one to stick. A lot of these promotions sometimes just do not pan out.
Ham Omelet Sandwich
The ham omelet sandwich was supposed to be a great on the go option. It was packed with a bunch of tasty ingredients.
Sadly its very difficult to make a good omelet on the go. You have to cook it perfectly and find a way to keep it warm.
The ham itself was delicious and Burger King uses it in other dishes but they could not get the omelet sandwich going!
Caramel Frappe
A delicious beverage-the caramel frappe was supposed to be an homage to many other places that make the beverage.
In general, Burger King is not well-known for their coffee. Plenty of people enjoy and drink it regularly, its just not a staple.
The drink didn’t last too long, although you occasionally see other versions of it come out. Who knows maybe soon again!
Double Ham & Sausage Breakfast Burrito
This breakfast burrito was meant to fill you up. Filled with a bunch of different delicious breakfast components all in a crispy tortilla.
Sadly this has not been a go to in the Burger King breakfast world. They have some other classics that are way better.
Regardless of what happened with this burrito, you must credit Burger King for their willingness to make these types of ventures.
Tacos
Plenty of fast food places wish they could make tacos. Some try and fail, a few make them well. We get to BURGER King, though…
They just could not make them work. Perhaps it had to do with the beef they were using, which was the same as the burgers.
There is no saying for sure, tacos are an art. Burger King has plenty of other good options that aren’t tacos.
Halloween Whopper
So the Halloween whopper needs to be put on here because its not always on the menu and it features a black bun…
Yup, a black bun. It’s bizarre, but very fitting for that time of year. BK tends to do a lot of promos with it and it does well marketing-wise.
We can’t say this one is “discontinued”, it’s more just a seasonal item of Burger King’s. One definitely worth trying.
Extra Long Pulled Pork Sandwich
Here is a sad one, because what is better than a pulled pork sandwich? Stacked with sauce and coleslaw, it’s unbeatable!
Burger King couldn’t get this one right either. They unfortunately failed to make it as good as some BBQ joints people frequent.
Pulled pork is a tough one. You first off have to make the meat perfectly. Then you have to find everything! It’s not easy!
Donut Holes
A few years ago, Burger King offered donut holes, which were really popular as a breakfast option. The Donut Holes were basically what you would think: small round donuts similar to Dunkin’ Munchkins.
Well, unfortunately, the Donut Holes didn’t come in any other flavors or with any other toppings, and maybe that’s why they ultimately didn’t stick around.
However, there were some other issues with the Donut Holes (though we think they could easily be fixed). Apparently, they didn’t stay warm for long enough, and the glaze was really thin.
Turkey Burger
They started selling the Turkey Burger for a limited time only as a way to offer a “healthier” option to customers who were more health-conscious.
Honestly, we don’t understand why this had to be a limited edition thing. It was $3.99 — pretty cheap if you ask us — and made a great alternative for those who don’t eat red meat.
We don’t think that Burger King should give up on turkey burgers! It’s a totally untapped market, if you ask us. With a little more flavoring and experimentation, it could totally be the next big thing.
Crispy Pretzel Chicken Fries
Oh, the Crispy Pretzel Chicken Fries from Burger King. Talk about a twist! Launched in 2018, these fries were Burger King’s funky take on their classic Chicken Fries.
Imagine the original, beloved crispy chicken strips but jazzed up with a salty, crunchy pretzel coating. They were a dream come true for crunch and salt lovers.
Sadly, like all good things that come for a limited time, they vanished from the menu, leaving fans hoping for a comeback. Here today, gone tomorrow.
The Yumbo
This throwback from Burger King’s menu first made its appearance in the ’60s. It couldn’t have been more simple — just a toasty ham and cheese sandwich.
The Yumbo took a bow and exited stage left in 1974. Fast forward to 2014, Burger King pulled a nostalgia card and brought it back.
It was a blast from the past, but, like all good reunions, it was fleeting. The Yumbo’s return was a limited-time offer, and it’s gone again today.
Mac ‘N Cheetos
Oh, the Mac ‘N Cheetos from Burger King, what a wild ride that was! Launched in 2016, they were the ultimate snack fusion of macaroni and Cheetos.
Creamy macaroni and cheese bites encased in a crispy Cheetos-flavored shell. It was like someone took two of the best comfort foods and created a crunchy, cheesy lovechild.
Fans of both snacks were over the moon, and social media buzzed with excitement. However, like all novelties, they were only meant to be a fleeting affair.
King Boxes
King Boxes were Burger King’s answer to our collective hunger for variety and value. And they were all wrapped up in one neat package.
Imagine a little box filled with an entrée, a side of fries, a drink, and two cookies. It was a convenient way to get a full meal.
King Boxes launched in 2018 with options like a Whopper or chicken sandwich as the entree. It was just $3 through Postmates for a limited time.
Cini-Minis
Cini-Minis were little bundles of joy from Burger King that made breakfasts a bit more delightful. They were rolled out in the late ’90s, thrilling young millennials.
These mini cinnamon rolls quickly became a fan favorite for their warm, gooey centers and sweet, icing-topped goodness. They were the perfect post-Whopper dessert or sweet breakfast.
After disappearing from the menu, they made a nostalgic comeback in 2018. Cini-Minis truly proved that good things often do come in small, cinnamon-swirled packages.
French Toast Sandwiches
Here’s one you probably remember if you frequented Burger King in 2019. These sandwiches married the sweetness of French toast with a hearty breakfast sandwich.
In many ways, it was like having the best parts of breakfast in every bite. Yet again, this menu item was never meant to last.
The French Toast Sandwich quietly disappeared from the menu sometime after 2019. We’ll just have to try making one of these ourselves at home.
Maple Waffle Sandwiches
Another 2019 novelty release, the Maple Waffle Sandwich followed in the footsteps of the French Toast Sandwich. It was another sweet-and-savory menu option for breakfast-lovers.
The French Toast Sandwiches combined the sweet richness of French toast with classic breakfast fillings. The Maple Waffle Sandwiches offered a similar blend but with a twist.
They swapped French toast for fluffy, maple-infused waffles. So both team French toast and team Waffles could find something to suit their tastes.
Seasoned Sweet Potato Curly Fries
Burger King’s Seasoned Sweet Potato Curly Fries were another limited-time culinary delight introduced in 2012. They truly offered a “twist” on traditional fast food sides.
These fries combined the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a savory seasoning blend, delivering a mouthwatering contrast of flavors. And now we’re hungry.
While their stay on the menu was brief, they left a lasting impression on fans craving a comeback of this unique, flavorful alternative to regular fries.
Bacon Sundae
A bacon…what? That’s right, Burger King once offered a bacon sundae. In 2012, the King ventured into the bold territory of sweet and savory desserts.
The unique treat combined creamy soft serve ice cream with rich chocolate fudge, caramel, and a sprinkle of salty, crispy bacon bits over the top.
It was a limited-time offering that left customers intrigued, delighted, and a bit bewildered. We hope they bring it back, if only for a little while.
Sirloin Steak Sandwich
If you wanted something a cut above a typical hamburger, you could opt for a Sirloin Steak Sandwich at Burger King for a limited time in 1979.
The Burger King Sirloin Steak Sandwich offered a fast-food take on a steakhouse classic, aiming to elevate the typical menu with a more premium option.
This sandwich was part of Burger King’s strategy to diversify its offerings by including higher-quality meats and more sophisticated flavors. But apparently, that’s not what BK-goers wanted.
Bacon Cheesy Tots
In October 2018, BK brought back Bacon Cheesy Tots, which were a delicious little snack: tater tots filled with cheese and bacon bits, which definitely weren’t healthy.
The Tots were only around for a limited time, but Cheesy Tots were brought back to the menu for a limited time in December 2023, so chances are good that BK will have them back eventually!
As for the Cheesy Tots, they’re available as four or eight pieces! If you’re looking to reminisce over additional discontinued items from the past, we’ve got you covered.
