What Is Frozen Custard?
Frozen custard is a frozen dessert made from cream, milk, sugar and egg yolks. It is churned slowly and served very fresh, which makes it thicker and silkier than most ice cream. If you have ever wondered what is frozen custard and why people line up for it, this guide covers the ingredients, the history and the taste.
Freddy’s puts custard at the center of its menu alongside steakburgers. You can see it in items such as the Signature Turtle and the Oreo Double Trouble.
Frozen Custard Ingredients
| Ingredient | Role |
|---|---|
| Cream and milk | Provide milkfat and the creamy base |
| Sugar | Adds sweetness and keeps the texture soft |
| Egg yolks | Add richness and help the mix stay smooth |
| Flavoring | Vanilla, chocolate or other flavors and mix-ins |
Exact recipes vary by brand, so check the official ingredient and allergen guide for any specific product.
How Frozen Custard Is Made
The custard mix is cooked or pasteurized, cooled and then frozen in a machine that adds only a small amount of air. It comes out thick and soft, and it is meant to be served right away. Many shops make it in small batches through the day so it stays fresh.
A Short History
Frozen custard is often traced to Coney Island, New York, in 1919, where the Kohr brothers sold a smooth frozen treat that became popular on the boardwalk. It later spread across the Midwest, where custard stands remain a local tradition in places like Wisconsin and Kansas. Freddy’s, which started in Wichita, Kansas, is part of that tradition.
What Does Frozen Custard Taste Like?
Expect a rich, creamy, almost buttery flavor with a dense, smooth texture. Vanilla tastes fuller than in most ice creams, and chocolate feels deeper. Because there is less air, a small serving feels satisfying. Custard also works well as a base for concretes and sundaes, such as the Maple Pecan Concrete.
What Is Frozen Custard Made Of?
The base of frozen custard is a cooked mixture of cream, milk, sugar and egg yolks. Under U.S. standards, frozen custard must contain at least 10 percent milkfat and at least 1.4 percent egg yolk solids. So what is frozen custard compared with plain ice cream? It is ice cream with egg yolks and less air.
Frozen Custard vs Ice Cream vs Soft Serve
| Dessert | Egg Yolks | Air | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frozen custard | Yes | Low | Dense and silky |
| Ice cream | Usually no | More | Light and scoopable |
| Soft serve | Varies | More | Soft and airy |
For a full side-by-side look, read our custard vs ice cream guide.
What Is Frozen Custard Served With?
Frozen custard works in cones, cups, sundaes, shakes and concretes. Popular add-ins include nuts, cookie pieces, fruit and caramel. Try it in a Banana Split Sundae or with a crunchy Waffle Cone. Because it is best fresh, many shops make custard throughout the day. People who ask what is frozen custard usually fall in love with the smooth texture after one bite.
Where to Try Frozen Custard
Frozen custard is a Midwest tradition, and many custard stands still make it in small batches throughout the day. Freddy’s is one popular chain that serves it alongside steakburgers, and its location details are on the official website. Menu items and flavors vary by restaurant, so check before you go.
Plan to eat custard soon after it is served, because it is softer and melts faster than hard-packed ice cream.
Conclusion
Frozen custard is a rich, egg-yolk-based treat served fresh and thick. If you are comparing it with ice cream, read our guide to custard vs ice cream. Always check allergens such as milk and egg, and see the official nutrition and allergen information before ordering.
