National Dessert Day 2024: Free Treats and Deals at Baskin-Robbins, Portillo’s, Jason’s Deli, McAlister’s

Restaurant chains across the country are marking National Dessert Day on Monday with promotions ranging from free cakes with purchase to discounted ice cream bundles and limited-time menu items. Most offers require membership in the brand’s loyalty program and run through the week.

Portillo’s has introduced three Oreo-themed desserts for a one-week run: an Oreo Shake, a slice of Oreo Cake, and an Oreo Cake Shake blending both. The items are available through Saturday at all locations. Members of the chain’s Perks program can add a slice of Oreo Cake for $1 with any purchase of $5 or more, limited to one discounted slice per transaction.

Jason’s Deli is offering a free slice of Strawberry Shortcake with any entree purchase from Monday through Friday at participating restaurants. The deal does not require a coupon but is valid only for dine-in and takeout orders placed directly with the restaurant.

McAlister’s Deli rewards members can claim one free dessert with the purchase of an entree on Monday only. The offer loads automatically to member accounts and applies to the entire dessert menu, including the chain’s signature cookies and brownies.

Baskin-Robbins is running a month-long bundle for its rewards members: any three qualifying items — double scoops, small Mangonadas, small smoothies, or Creature Creations — for $15. The promotion lasts through October 31 and can be redeemed multiple times.

National Dessert Day, observed annually on October 14, was popularized by food marketing calendars and has no official congressional designation. Unlike National Ice Cream Day in July, which traces to a 1984 presidential proclamation, this observance emerged from industry promotion in the 2010s.

Loyalty programs remain the primary gateway to these offers. All four chains require enrollment in their respective apps or email clubs, most of which are free to join. Terms vary: Portillo’s Perks and McAlister’s Rewards use point-based systems, while Baskin-Robbins and Jason’s Deli operate on visit-based or purchase-triggered rewards.

For consumers planning multiple stops, the Portillo’s Oreo lineup and Jason’s Deli shortcake are the only limited-time menu items created specifically for the holiday. The Baskin-Robbins bundle and McAlister’s free dessert leverage existing menu items.

Portillo’s soft-opened its newest Texas location at 12221 Montana Ave. in El Paso earlier this year, drawing lines that wrapped the building during its first week.