Not technically.
The main difference between frozen custard and ice cream is that frozen custard is made with egg yolks and ice cream is not, giving the former a richer flavor and mouthfeel. Some ice creams are made with egg yolks, however, which would technically make them custards based on the USDA guidelines.
4 Key Differences between Frozen Custard and Ice Cream:
Ingredients: One of the most notable differences between frozen custard and ice cream pertains to a single ingredient: egg yolks. Otherwise, they share ingredients like milk, cream, sugar and salt. Plus, both dishes often utilize similar flavor enhancements, mix-ins and toppings. However, while ice cream may incorporate egg yolks in its base, the final ice cream product technically has to contain less than 1.4% of that ingredient in the final product to be designated as such. According to the FDA, products containing this percentage or in excess of it and at least 10% milkfat are actually “frozen custard,” which may also be referred to as “French ice cream” or “French custard ice cream.”
Production: Many differences emerge between frozen custard and ice cream in terms of product production. As we do at Freddy’s, frozen custard is typically made with its own special machine versus a traditional ice cream maker. Additionally, churning ice cream tends to be done at a faster speed than churning frozen custard, which is why there is more air whipped into ice cream than into frozen custard. Finally, the temperature during the churning process may be slightly warmer for frozen custard.
Taste: The difference between the air present in ice cream versus frozen custard, as well as the greater fat and egg yolk content, also impacts taste. Frozen custard has a greater richness and creaminess, due to the ingredient and air differences. The reduced air content in frozen custard also intensifies its flavors because this characteristic makes it more dense than ice cream.
Texture: Similarly, the substantial difference in air content accounts for the textural difference between frozen custard and ice cream. Less air gives frozen custard more of a hearty feel than traditional ice cream or soft serve. Consequently, this dish offers a more substantial creaminess and richness in the mouth.
Hope that clears it up- or does it ?
tonygraz wrote:
