I’m a big fan of giving food gifts. A curated cookie delivery or soup care package is a top-tier way to show someone you care.

Sending tasty eats—especially to a long-distance loved one—is not without its challenges, though. You have to contend with dietary restrictions, costly shipping fees and perishables staying fresh.

For a tongue-in-cheek alternative, I’ve recently turned to Jellycats. These amusing plushies are the perfect pick-me-up, and there’s a foodie friend for every celebration. (Egglantine is a personal favorite!) Here’s everything you need to know about this viral toy brand.

Jelly cat toy products placed in a grid
TASTE OF HOME, VIA MERCHANT (3)

Editor's Pick

Jellycat Amuseables Food and Drink Toys

From plush birthday cakes to burgers, Jellycat stuffed animals make a great gift.

What are Jellycats?

Jellycats toys placed on a blue coloured chair
KATIE BANDURSKI FOR TASTE OF HOME

Jellycats are uber-soft stuffed animals that come in a wide array of whimsical shapes. The brand makes plenty of classic plushes, like Bashful Bunnies and Bartholomew Bears, but my personal favorites are the Amuseables Food and Drink toys. If you have a favorite nosh, there’s likely a Jellycat to match.

The brand has been bringing joy with its silly toy designs for over 25 years. More recently, Jellycats have gone viral on TikTok and Instagram, making some new releases (looking at you, Malachy Dragon!) sell out instantly. Just like the Stanley cup craze, they’ve become a collector’s item for kids and adults alike. Think of ’em as this generation’s Beanie Baby!

My Top Gift Picks

Coffee Bean Bag Charm toy product placed in a white circle background
VIA MERCHANT

Coffee Bean Bag Charm

Bag charms are all the rage this summer. And your BFF will love showing off their caffeine obsession with this joyful coffee bean Jellycat keychain. Talk about the perfect companion for cafe hopping!

Baguette Jellycat toy product placed in a white circle background
VIA MERCHANT

Baguette

Ooh la la! This slim breadhead is an adorable gift for bakers. The Jellycat baguette measures over a foot long and would look adorable sitting atop your stand mixer.

Apple Jellycat toy product placed in a white circle background
VIA MERCHANT

Shopping for a teacher’s back-to-school gift or a health-nut friend? This apple Jellycat is an excellent example of the brand’s fruit and veg offerings. You’ll also find a broccoli, carrot and pear friend, among others.

Pretzel Bag Charm Via Jellycat.com
VIA MERCHANT

Pretzel Bag Charm

As a Wisconsinite, I can appreciate the artistry that goes into the perfect soft pretzel. And this Jellycat pretzel bag charm lets me show off my state pride (or just my obsession with snacks) everywhere I go.

Birthday Cake Via Jellycat.com
VIA MERCHANT

Birthday Cake

When their special day rolls around, the iconic Jellycat birthday cake will be a welcome surprise.

Earlier in the summer, Jellycat launched a new cheese line, including this dashing Camembert plush. It’s the little details—like tiny rosemary sprigs on his head—that make him an oh-so-charming addition to wine and cheese night.

But Don’t Take My Word for It!

I am far from the only staffer who has these cutie-pie plushies on the brain.

“I’ve been fortunate to use my children as an excuse to amass a variety of these cheerful stuffies. But they’ve basically become my emotional support animals,” says Digital Product Manager Gina Burke. “While their price tag makes them more of a ‘special occasion’ purchase, they truly are special every day. Their quality is exceptional, so I know they can endure the love of a child. And, they’re perfectly giftable. With such an array of creative figures, you can pick one that feels custom to the intended receiver.”

Shopping editor and new mom Mary Henn agrees, saying: “I love Jellycats because most of their stuffed animals are safe from birth, with securely stitched seams, no loose or small parts and materials that are nontoxic and hypoallergenic. They’re perfect gifts and comforting companions for babies and toddlers (and adults, of course).”

Where to Buy Jellycats

You can buy Jellycats online directly from the brand. Select styles are also available at Crate & Barrel Kids, Nordstrom, The Paper Store and F.A.O. Schwarz, among other retailers. New releases and popular styles sell out fast, so don’t hesitate to buy if you see one you want in stock.

One word of caution? Be careful of Jellycat knock-offs. Many third-party sellers list faux plush using images of the real deal. If you see a price that is significantly lower than the list price through Jellycat, it’s likely too good to be true.


FAQ

Faq Group Shot 1 Photo By Katie Bandurski
Katie Bandurski for Taste of Home

Why are Jellycats so expensive?

There’s no denying that Jellycat plushes are pretty pricey. This is due to several factors, including the brand’s use of quality materials, responsible sourcing practices, rigorous safety standards and dedication to sustainability. When buying a Jellycat, rest assured that the toy is safe for both you, the consumer, and everyone involved in bringing it to life.

How do you wash Jellycats?

It depends on the product. Some Jellycats can be tossed in a washing machine on cold, while others are spot-clean only. All toys are incompatible with dryers, irons or dry cleaners. For full instructions, consult the “safety + care” instructions on each toy’s list page.

Are Jellycats weighted?

No, Jellycats are not weighted stuffed animals. Some of the plush, like the dragons, have beads in their design, but they’re still primarily light, floppy and fiber-filled.