Coffee Ice Cream and Kids: A Sweet Treat or a Sleepless Night?
Coffee ice cream may seem like an innocent dessert, but parents often wonder—can kids eat it? The short answer: it depends.
While a single scoop isn’t likely to send your child bouncing off the walls, it does contain caffeine, and too much of it can impact sleep, focus, and even heart rate.
Caffeine levels in coffee ice cream vary by brand. Some contain as little as 10 mg per serving (about the same as a small piece of chocolate), while others pack over 50 mg—comparable to a can of soda!
Unlike adults, children process caffeine more slowly, meaning even a small amount can linger in their system for hours, potentially disrupting bedtime.
Beyond the caffeine, coffee-flavored desserts often have added sugars, which can contribute to hyperactivity and energy crashes. If your child enjoys the taste of coffee but you’re concerned about caffeine, there are alternatives.
Look for decaffeinated coffee ice cream or opt for flavors like caramel, vanilla, or chocolate for a similar creamy indulgence without the stimulant effect.
Ultimately, an occasional bite of coffee ice cream is unlikely to cause harm, but regular consumption may lead to sleep disturbances and jitteriness.
If your child is extra sensitive to caffeine or struggles with sleep, it’s best to keep coffee-flavored treats as an occasional indulgence—perhaps earlier in the day rather than after dinner!