The Pop-Tarts Bowl, which debuted in 2023, has quickly become a standout event in college football’s bowl season. This year, the game will feature a unique spectacle in Orlando, Florida, with Miami facing off against Iowa State. The bowl is known for its quirky elements, including a live Pop-Tarts mascot, a working toaster trophy, and a giant toaster that turns the mascot into a toasted treat for the winning team.
The edible mascot, a giant Pop-Tart, is the highlight of the event. Last year, the mascot’s flavor was strawberry, and it was toasted in front of a cheering crowd. After Kansas State’s victory over NC State, players eagerly devoured the toasted mascot, turning it into a viral sensation. This year, there will be three different Pop-Tart mascots: Wild Berry, Hot Fudge Sundae, and fan-voted Frosted Cinnamon Roll, which was last available in 2022. The MVP of the game’s winning team will choose the flavor to be toasted.
The Pop-Tarts Bowl trophy also embraces the fun, featuring an actual working toaster built into the top of the football trophy. General Electric partnered with the game to design the toaster, which can toast a full Pop-Tart. The trophy showcases GE’s commitment to innovation, creating a piece that combines football and food in a truly unique way.
While the Pop-Tarts Bowl only became affiliated with the brand in 2023, the game itself has been around since 1990, originally hosted in Miami before moving to Orlando in 2001. Past sponsors have included Florida Tourism, Mazda, and Cheez-It, among others. Last year, Kansas State triumphed over NC State with a 28-19 victory.
This year’s game promises to be entertaining, with Miami having recently missed a playoff spot and Iowa State celebrating its historic 10-win season. While both teams are out of the playoff hunt, the Pop-Tarts Bowl offers an unconventional yet fun prize for the winning team—a toasted Pop-Tart, making it a memorable experience for all involved.