The History of Custard: How Freddy's Keeps the Tradition Alive

From sweet applications like crème brûlée to savory creations like quiche, many people may know and love dishes incorporating custards, even if they may not realize the presence or origins of the custard component itself. So, why is it that the history of custard continues to unfold today? In this guide, explore some of the important moments in the history of custard and popular dishes that have stood the test of time, like the frozen custard treats on the Freddy’s menu!

A Brief History of Custard

The word “custard” was likely connected to the words for crust as well as dishes like tarts and pies. Given the common uses of custard, this connection may not be too surprising. However, the first appearance of custard meaning “a cooked mixture made of eggs and milk or cream and usually having a thick, creamy consistency” dates back to the early 1600s, per Merriam Webster. During this same time, it seems that the significance of custard in the annals of history really seemed to flourish especially across Europe and Asia, as Tasting Table notes.

While baked, stirred and steamed custards have graced many tables over the centuries, frozen custard rose to prominence in America in the 20th century. Although it was not a smash success immediately, its presence at the 1933 World Fair in Chicago is often noted as the start of its popularity, especially across the Midwest. From our first location in Kansas to one of the more than 500 locations across the country, Freddy’s proudly continues sharing the joy of frozen custard treats and hopes to do so for many future generations to come.

Delicious Dishes in the History of Custard

Throughout the history of custard, many dishes have leveraged the smooth luxurious mouthfeel of the egg and cream custard base, as this list of curated custard recipes from Food&Wine highlights. Interestingly, some custard creations including Quiche Lorraine celebrate the place of their origin, while others such as the recipe for the Pastel De Belém, are well-guarded secrets known by only 6 people in the world. So, why is there so much love for custard?

Custard is incredibly versatile. Its soft and rich texture is the perfect foil for light, crispy pastry or caramelized sugar. The egg and cream combination also deliciously embraces savory additions like bacon and mushrooms, as well as tart fruit and a variety of spices. Additionally, it can act as a filling for eclairs or doughnuts or as a binder in dishes like casseroles or bread puddings. It can even stand alone as a sauce, such as crème anglaise.

At Freddy’s, we appreciate the grand history of custard, but we are especially proud of our rich and creamy premium frozen custard that we freshly churn throughout the day at each restaurant. From seasonally-inspired specialty items like the Caramel Apple Pie Concrete to classic selections including pints of our delicious chocolate and vanilla flavors, Freddy’s frozen custard treats are the kind of sweets that are sure to bring smiles. Here are three of our top-selling treats!

Signature Turtle

This luxurious treat begins with our freshly churned creamy vanilla custard. Then, we add rich hot fudge and hot caramel, which we then accompany with toasted pecans, not to mention fresh whipped cream and a cherry on top. Our Signature Turtle is an invitation to indulgence with its sweet match-up of incredible flavors.

Oreo® Custard Sandwich

Our Oreo® Custard Sandwich combines crispy chocolate wafers with your choice of our creamy vanilla or chocolate frozen custard. Not just the perfect summer treat, this portable treat is also the perfect pick-me-up for any reason and every season.

Create Your Own

At Freddy’s, our whole menu invites you to customize your selections to your specific preferences. Using your choice of chocolate, vanilla or a half and half mix of the two custards as a base, then determine if today feels like a concrete day or a sundae day. Next, pick your size and then personalize your treat with toppings such as cheesecake bites, candy pieces or fruit and sauces including peanut butter, hot fudge and caramel. With so many topping options to enjoy, design your favorite treat or try out hundreds of possible combinations when you customize your custard at Freddy’s.

At Freddy’s, we are honored to be part of the history of custard as well as its continued appreciation, specifically by sharing our freshly churned frozen custard at locations across the country. For rich, creamy frozen custard available onsite or for carry-out, delivery or catering, find a Freddy’s near you and get ready to enjoy a truly tasty treat!