The Frozen Treat Showdown: Frozen Custard vs. Ice Cream

In the world of frozen treats, one debate continues to churn: frozen custard vs. ice cream. Which is better?

Frozen custard, known for its ultra-creamy texture and rich flavor, traces its origins to Coney Island in 1919, where egg yolks were first added to traditional ice cream to create a smoother, more indulgent dessert. Ice cream, on the other hand, remains a timeless classic (with a rich history of its own)—lighter, airier, and endlessly versatile.

Both have their loyal fans, but which one truly deserves a spot in your freezer? Let’s break down the key differences.

What’s the Difference Between Frozen Custard and Ice Cream?

If you’ve ever wondered why frozen custard feels a little denser than ice cream or why ice cream has that light, scoopable texture, you’re not alone. At first glance, they might seem like the same thing, but there are a few key differences that set them apart—especially when it comes to ingredients, texture, and taste.

So what really makes them different? Let’s break it down.

Ingredients

The main difference lies in the ingredients. Frozen custard contains a higher percentage of egg yolks compared to regular ice cream. This gives it a richer, creamier texture that many people have grown to enjoy.

Traditional ice cream, on the other hand, is made with milk, cream, sugar, and flavorings. Breyers takes it a step further by using 100% Grade A milk and cream from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones. Plus, our ingredients are naturally sourced. We work with the Rainforest Alliance and other partners to ensure that all our vanilla and as much of our fruit as possible are sustainably sourced.

How they’re made

The process of making frozen custard involves cooking the egg yolks with milk and sugar to create a custard base before it’s churned and frozen. This method gives it that signature rich flavor.

Ice cream, on the other hand, skips the egg yolks and focuses on a simpler blend of milk, cream, and sugar. The mixture is churned as it freezes, creating that smooth, creamy texture we all love.

Texture

When it comes to texture and taste, the differences between frozen custard and ice cream are quite noticeable.

Thanks to the extra egg yolks, frozen custard is denser and smoother. It’s churned at a slower speed, incorporating less air, which results in that velvety texture.

Ice cream is lighter and fluffier because it’s churned faster, incorporating more air.

Nutrition

For those keeping an eye on their diet, it’s important to know how frozen custard vs ice cream stack up nutritionally. Frozen custard generally has more calories and fat due to the egg yolks and higher cream content. Ice cream, while still a sugary treat, often has fewer calories and less fat.

Both frozen custard and ice cream contain sugar, but the amounts can vary depending on the recipe. For those on specific diets, Breyers offers options like CarbSmart ™, No Sugar Added, Non-Dairy, and Lactose Free, so everyone can enjoy a little sweet indulgence.

Flavor

When it comes to flavors, frozen custard and ice cream each bring something special to the table. Frozen custard leans into timeless, rich flavors like velvety vanilla, decadent chocolate, and buttery caramel.

Ice cream, however, steals the spotlight with its endless variety—you can go with something fruity and refreshing one day, indulgent and over-the-top the next. Whether you’re craving classic simplicity or adventurous combinations, there’s a scoop for every mood.

Toppings

Frozen custard is best served on its own. But if you want, you could try pairing it with simple toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, and caramel sauce.

Ice cream can handle a wider array of toppings, from sprinkles and chocolate chips to whipped cream, hot fudge and even balsamic reduction. Its firmer texture also makes it a go-to for desserts like sundaes, milkshakes, ice cream cakes, and even deep-fried ice cream.

Want some inspiration? We’ve got loads of delicious recipes to choose from. Find some of our top picks here: Fan Favorite Ice Cream Recipes.

French toast topped with vanilla ice cream and strawberries

The Legacy of Breyers French Vanilla

Want the best of both worlds? Enter: Breyers French Vanilla ice cream—a classic twist on your favorite Breyers vanilla. Inspired by the traditional French custard, this flavor is our richest, most indulgent vanilla yet. Its velvety texture and decadent taste make it the perfect complement to breakfast-style desserts like French Toast à la Mode, French Vanilla Puff Pancakes, or a refreshing Fruit Salad Parfait.

Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what our customers are saying:

“I love the flavor & the texture. The only ice cream I will buy.” - DebJ

“Tastes amazing and hard to tell that it’s frozen since it has a lot of that freshly made taste. It’s creamy, flavorful, and always available when looking for it in the stores. Love to eat it with sugar cones.” - ElizabethJ195

“We love this flavor! We also like the “homemade vanilla” and will get it if we can’t find the “French Vanilla”. We use it primarily for sundaes but it’s also very good for root beer floats.” - Lonewolf64

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

So, which frozen treat should you choose? It all comes down to personal preference and the occasion. Frozen custard is rich and creamy, with a denser texture. Ice cream is lighter, fluffier, and comes in a wider variety of flavors.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both! Explore the rich, velvety texture of frozen custard and the airy lightness of traditional ice cream. And don’t forget to savor a scoop of Breyers French Vanilla, the perfect blend of both.

In the end, whether you’re a custard connoisseur or an ice cream aficionado, there’s no wrong choice. Each offers its own unique delight, making every frozen dessert experience a moment to cherish.

Also read: 7 Ways to Use Breyers Vanilla Ice Cream to make Show-Stopping Desserts