The holiday season is officially here, and with it comes one of the most profitable opportunities for operators: Christmas-themed limited-time offers (LTOs). Whether you’re running a convenience store, pizza shop, brewery, entertainment venue, or any business with a foodservice program, festive LTOs can help you capture holiday traffic, increase average ticket size, and create memorable experiences your guests will want to return for.

And with the AutoFry®, MTI’s fully enclosed, ventless fryer, adding creative, seasonal items to your menu becomes easier than ever. No hoods, no extra staff, no complicated prep. Just plug, program, and serve holiday cheer by the basketful.

🎄 Why Christmas LTOs Work

Holiday LTOs aren’t just cute, seasonal add-ons, they’re powerful business drivers. Here’s why:

People love trying something new, especially when it’s tied to a holiday. A limited-time item gives guests a reason to stop in now instead of later.

Pair your holiday special with a drink, dessert, or a meal deal, and suddenly your average order jumps.

Festive food is highly shareable. When customers post their holiday treats online, your brand gets organic exposure.

Not sure if an item would work long-term? Introduce it as a holiday LTO and gather feedback without commitment.

🍟 Add Holiday Magic with AutoFry®

AutoFry makes rolling out LTOs incredibly simple. Since it’s self-contained and ventless, operators can fry seasonal favorites without needing extensive kitchen space, or even a traditional kitchen at all. Every model is designed for set-it-and-forget-it operation, so staff can drop in a product, press a button, and get back to serving guests while the AutoFry handles the hard work. This level of consistency is especially helpful during the busy holiday rush, when efficiency matters most.

And if you’re looking to make your holiday workflow even smoother, the brand-new AutoFry PrepShelf adds a whole new level of convenience. This sleek, attachable shelf connects directly to select AutoFry models, giving operators extra space to store utensils, seasonings, food boats, garnishes, and other essentials needed for your festive LTOs. With everything right at your fingertips, prepping and serving holiday menu items becomes faster, cleaner, and more organized...exactly what you need during peak season.

🎁 Festive Fried LTO Ideas to Try This Season

Here are holiday-themed menu ideas that crisp up beautifully in the AutoFry and bring Christmas flavor to your foodservice program:

Stuff wonton wrappers with creamy Brie and a dollop of cranberry chutney. Fry until golden and serve with rosemary-honey drizzle. A perfect holiday appetizer.

Candy Cane Funnel Cake Fries

Give a fair classic a festive twist: fry mini funnel cake fries and top with whipped cream and candy cane crumble.

Ginger, cinnamon, and sugar make this dessert pure Christmas in every bite. Serve with vanilla icing or warm caramel dip.

Use carved turkey, stuffing, and herbs to form handheld croquettes. Fry until crispy and serve with a side of gravy or cranberry aioli.

Sweet and seasonal! Toss tots in cinnamon and sugar then serve with a maple cream or marshmallow fluff dip.

🌟 How to Promote Your Christmas LTOs

To make the most of your festive offerings:

• Launch early to catch shoppers and holiday event attendees.
• Bundle items with drinks or meals for higher ticket value.
• Use signage near the counter or pump area for convenience stores.
• Share across social media, especially TikTok and Instagram.
• Train staff to upsell with simple scripts: “Have you tried our holiday special yet?”

🎅 Make This Holiday Season Your Most Profitable Yet

Christmas LTOs bring excitement, creativity, and revenue to your menu, and with the AutoFry, adding them is easier than ever! From sweet to savory, festive fried foods help you stand out during one of the busiest times of year.

If you’re ready to add Christmas magic to your menu this season, MTI and AutoFry are here to make it happen!