Ice cream cones with different flavored scoops

What Makes Our Ice Cream So Creamy?

If you pride yourself on being a true ice cream connoisseur, you've probably asked yourself: Why does some ice cream feel creamier, smoother, just...better? Is it the type of milk? The way it’s churned? Or some well-kept industry secret?

At Breyers, we believe ice cream texture is just as important as flavor. That first spoonful should glide across your tongue and every bite after should be just as smooth, rich, and satisfying. But what really creates that signature creaminess?

Join us behind the scenes at Breyers, where carefully chosen ingredients and time-tested methods come together to create that creamy texture you’ve come to expect in every scoop.

1. What Gives Ice Cream Its Creamy Texture?

A few key elements are at play:

Fat content (usually from cream and milk) gives ice cream a rich and smooth texture.

Air, introduced during churning (a process called ‘overrun’), affects how dense or fluffy the final product feels.

Quality of ingredients matters. Fresh, high-quality dairy and minimal artificial additives often yield a naturally creamier product.

Churning and rapid freezing prevent large ice crystals from forming, which helps create that smooth, creamy texture instead of something icy or grainy.

Quality You Can Taste

Every scoop of Breyers ice cream starts with milk and cream from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones, because we believe real taste comes from real ingredients.

We also steer clear of artificial flavors and colors, choosing instead to use simple, recognizable ingredients you can trust.

Discover more about our ingredients pledge.

Frozen Dairy Dessert vs. Ice Cream: What’s the Real Scoop?

Frozen treats come in a variety of forms, each crafted with different ingredients and processes. Some are labeled as frozen dairy desserts rather than ice cream due to specific FDA definitions around milk-fat content.

At Breyers, we’re always transparent about these distinctions. Just check your favorite tub to see if you’re enjoying ice cream or a frozen dairy dessert. Either way, we never compromise on taste, texture, or the use of real milk and cream (unless you're choosing from our Non-Dairy line, which is completely dairy-free, just as intended). No matter the label, our goal remains the same: to deliver the rich, creamy experience you expect in every scoop. Whether it’s a tub of our Natural Vanilla or Cookies & Cream, you’re getting the same Breyers quality you know and love.

Also read: Frozen Custard vs. Ice Cream – What's the Difference?

Final Word

Now you know what goes into that creamy Breyers texture: real milk and cream, high-quality ingredients, and a commitment to quality in every scoop. So the next time you're craving something smooth, satisfying, and made with care, you’ll know exactly where to reach.

FAQs

What makes Breyers frozen dessert different from traditional ice cream?

Some of our products are labeled as frozen dairy desserts rather than ice cream due to specific FDA definitions around milk-fat content. But they still deliver the same creamy, delicious taste you love from Breyers.

Does Breyers still use real milk and cream in all its products?

Most of Breyers favorites, like Natural Vanilla and Mint Chocolate Chip, are still made with real milk and cream. That said, we also offer a Non-Dairy line made with real oat milk for those looking for a plant-based option. Whether you’re into classic dairy or prefer non-dairy treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What’s the creamiest Breyers flavor to try?

If you're after rich, creamy flavor, try some of our classics like Natural Vanilla, Chocolate, Cookies & Cream, Mint Chocolate Chip, and Butter Pecan. Prefer plant-based? Our Non-Dairy options, like Non-Dairy Vanilla and Non-Dairy Cookies & Crème, offer the same super creamy texture without any dairy.