What is the Difference between Frozen Custard and Ice Cream?
Although many people know Freddy’s for our incredible frozen custard, those unfamiliar with our restaurants may understandably mistake this sweet treat cup for ice cream. Available in the U.S. for more than 100 years, frozen custard also actually originates from French ice cream traditions. In terms of packaging and formats, such as the cones, cups or pints and sundaes, sandwiches or shakes, both ice cream and frozen custard are often purchased or enjoyed in similar ways. Furthermore, both desserts equally embrace beloved flavors like vanilla and chocolate as well as more unique combinations including fruit or candy. So, what is the difference between frozen custard and ice cream? In this guide, learn about 4 key distinctions that make frozen custard stand out.
4 Key Differences between Frozen Custard and Ice Cream
Ingredients: One of the most notable differences between frozen custard and ice cream pertains to a single ingredient: egg yolks. Otherwise, they share ingredients like milk, cream, sugar and salt. Plus, both dishes often utilize similar flavor enhancements, mix-ins and toppings. However, while ice cream may incorporate egg yolks in its base, the final ice cream product technically has to contain less than 1.4% of that ingredient in the final product to be designated as such. According to the FDA, products containing this percentage or in excess of it and at least 10% milkfat are actually “frozen custard,” which may also be referred to as “French ice cream” or “French custard ice cream.”
Production: Many differences emerge between frozen custard and ice cream in terms of product production. As we do at Freddy’s, frozen custard is typically made with its own special machine versus a traditional ice cream maker. Additionally, churning ice cream tends to be done at a faster speed than churning frozen custard, which is why there is more air whipped into ice cream than into frozen custard. Finally, the temperature during the churning process may be slightly warmer for frozen custard.
Taste: The difference between the air present in ice cream versus frozen custard, as well as the greater fat and egg yolk content, also impacts taste. Frozen custard has a greater richness and creaminess, due to the ingredient and air differences. The reduced air content in frozen custard also intensifies its flavors because this characteristic makes it more dense than ice cream.
Texture: Similarly, the substantial difference in air content accounts for the textural difference between frozen custard and ice cream. Less air gives frozen custard more of a hearty feel than traditional ice cream or soft serve. Consequently, this dish offers a more substantial creaminess and richness in the mouth.
How do the differences between frozen custard and ice cream impact their uses?
Often, frozen custard and ice cream are used interchangeably in a variety of sweet and savory culinary applications. For example, food and dining resource, Eater, notes that instead of egg or cream-based sauces chefs have been playing with frozen reinventions to serve similar flavor and textural purposes while also adding a varied temperature component. Although neither weekday dinners nor the menu at Freddy’s is likely to include a frozen ham and cheese custard anytime soon, embracing the differences between frozen custard and ice cream in terms of their characteristics can impact the overall experience of many classic desserts. Learn why frozen custard may actually work better than ice cream in three of the most beloved treats:
Milkshakes: Ice cream typically has a more milk-forward flavor and a thinner consistency than frozen custard. Since it has less air and greater density, frozen custard creates a thicker and creamier milkshake. At Freddy’s, we are happy to make your shake or malt the way you prefer including adding more or less milk to either selection for a different consistency.
Cookie sandwiches: The warmth of one’s hands can quickly turn a frozen sandwich treat into a sticky mess. Slower to melt because of its greater density, frozen custard can be a better choice for a cookie sandwich treat. Instead of sadly watching your sweet sandwich middle fall onto the sidewalk on a beautiful warm day, using frozen custard as in our Oreo® Custard Sandwich helps prevent the pain of dessert deterioration.
Sundaes: Understanding the differences between ice cream and frozen custard can help you make informed choices when it comes to creating your own sundae. Instead of grabbing the usual ice cream container, take time for indulgence with a pint or quart of Freddy’s frozen custard. Flavorful, rich and creamy, frozen custard may better hold up to a variety of innovative designs and topping combinations!
Understanding the difference between frozen custard and ice cream enables better choices when it comes to our palates and the dishes and desserts in which those creamy additions may be used. As a luxury for your taste buds that offer a rich depth of flavor with a similar versatility to ice cream, choose frozen custard for your next dessert experience. For delicious frozen custard and customizable custard creations, visit a Freddy’s near you today!