Let's dive into the world of fast food and uncover the hidden gems of high-quality ice cream. It's a sweet surprise that some of our favorite burger joints also serve up some seriously delicious frozen treats.
The Ice Cream Conundrum
Not all ice cream is created equal, and when it comes to fast food chains, the quality can vary greatly. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets the bar high, requiring a minimum of 10% milkfat and no more than 100% overrun to be considered 'real' ice cream. This ensures a creamy, rich texture that we all crave.
However, many popular fast food chains, including some unexpected names like Dairy Queen, fall short of this standard, offering 'frozen dairy dessert' instead. So, who are the real ice cream champions in the fast food world?
The Cream of the Crop
Culver's: A Wisconsin Delight
Culver's, with its nearly 40-year history, is a Wisconsin gem. Their frozen custard, a subset of ice cream, meets and exceeds the FDA standards. It's made with farm-fresh dairy, and the first four ingredients are simple and pure: pasteurized milk, cream, skim milk, and sugar. The addition of egg yolks takes it to the next level, creating a creamy, indulgent treat.
What makes Culver's custard truly special is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a simple scoop, or go wild with toppings in a Concrete Mixer. The Flavor of the Day is always a fun surprise, with unique options like Double Strawberry and Caramel Pecan.
In-N-Out Burger: Old-Fashioned Charm
In-N-Out, a West Coast favorite, takes pride in its old-fashioned techniques. Their milkshakes are made with real ice cream, and the ingredient list is impressive: pasteurized milk, cream, and sugar, with a touch of corn syrup solids. The simplicity of their flavors - chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry - is a nod to classic American burger stands.
The iconic red palm tree-lined cups are a signature of In-N-Out's milkshakes, and their design has become so popular that it's now a brand symbol, featured on various merchandise.
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers: A Hidden Gem
Freddy's, with over 500 locations, is a hidden gem for frozen custard lovers. The chain's founders, inspired by their local custard shops, brought this lesser-known treat to the masses. Freddy's custard starts with a vanilla or chocolate base and offers a wide range of options, from sundaes to concretes and shakes.
The Frosts, frozen beverages topped with custard, are a unique twist, and the cookie sandwiches are a heartier option for those with a big appetite.
Braum's Ice Cream & Dairy Store: Farm-to-Table Excellence
Braum's takes dairy seriously, with its own private dairy farm. The milk from their cows reaches local stores within 36 hours, ensuring freshness. Their 'Premium' ice cream is a cut above, with a higher butterfat content and a lower overrun percentage.
The A2 milk from their farm is naturally sweet, and their ice cream is churned the old-fashioned way, resulting in a vast selection of flavors, including the unique Bordeaux Cherry Amaretto and the vibrant Birthday Cake.
Steak 'n Shake: A Milkshake Extravaganza
Steak 'n Shake, established in 1934, has an extensive milkshake menu. With over 19 flavors to choose from, including fruit, chocolate, and bakery-inspired options, it's a milkshake lover's paradise.
In 2022, Steak 'n Shake made headlines for its environmentally conscious paper straws, making it a top choice for those who care about the planet.
Shake Shack: East Coast Favorite
Shake Shack, an East Coast staple, uses frozen custard in its simple scoops, soda floats, and hand-spun milkshakes. Their custard contains 10% milkfat and 1.4% egg yolk solids, resulting in a creamy, rich texture.
The Shack offers a variety of flavors, from classic chocolate and strawberry to limited-time seasonal treats like the Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Shake. Unfortunately, their concretes were discontinued in 2020, but their milkshakes and floats still deliver a high-quality ice cream experience.
Smashburger: Häagen-Dazs Magic
Smashburger is known for its smashed beef patties, but their milkshakes are a real standout. They use Häagen-Dazs ice cream, classified as 'Super Premium,' which boasts the highest butterfat, lowest overrun, and highest-quality ingredients.
The hand-spun milkshakes come in four flavors, each made with the corresponding Häagen-Dazs flavor, resulting in an ultra-rich, indulgent sip.
BurgerFi: Custard Shakes with a Twist
BurgerFi, with its grass-fed beef specialty, also excels in the ice cream department. Their Custard Shakes are made with whole milk, cream, sweetener, egg yolks, and a pinch of salt, creating a truly indulgent dessert.
The signature flavors, including Vanilla with sprinkles and Strawberry with a unique strawberry-flavored custard, are a hit. BurgerFi also offers limited-time Chef's Seasonal Select flavors, keeping things fresh and exciting.
A Sweet Conclusion
So, there you have it - a guide to the best ice creams and frozen custards in the fast food world. These chains have raised the bar, offering high-quality, indulgent treats that rival any premium ice cream brand.
From the creamy custard of Culver's to the old-fashioned charm of In-N-Out, these fast food joints have proven that they can deliver on both flavor and quality. So, the next time you're craving a sweet treat, consider venturing beyond the burger and fries, and indulge in some of these delicious ice cream delights.
