Let's dive into the world of fast food and uncover the hidden gems of ice cream. It's time to challenge the notion that all fast food ice cream is created equal. I'm here to tell you, it's not! In fact, some of the most popular chains don't even serve real ice cream. Yes, you read that right. So, who are the real ice cream heroes in the fast food world? Let's find out.
The Ice Cream Elite
When it comes to ice cream, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets the bar high. Real ice cream, according to the FDA, must contain at least 10% milkfat and no more than 100% overrun. These standards ensure a creamy, rich texture that we all crave. But surprisingly, many fast food chains fall short of these benchmarks.
The Imposters
Chains like Chick-fil-A, Wendy's, and even Dairy Queen, which you'd think would be an expert, actually sell 'frozen dairy dessert' instead of the real deal. It's a bit of a let-down, isn't it? But fear not, because there are a few chains that are doing ice cream right.
Culver's: A Wisconsin Wonder
Culver's, with its nearly 40-year history, is a Wisconsin-born gem. Their frozen custard, a subset of ice cream, is made with farm-fresh dairy and a simple ingredient list: milk, cream, skim milk, and sugar. The addition of egg yolks sets it apart, giving it a rich, creamy texture. Culver's offers a variety of flavors and toppings, from simple scoops to Concrete Mixers, ensuring there's something for every sweet tooth.
In-N-Out Burger: West Coast Classic
In-N-Out Burger, 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: milk, cream, and sugar, with a touch of corn syrup solids and condensed skim milk. The flavors are classic - chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry - but the quality is exceptional. And let's not forget the iconic red palm tree-lined cups, a true In-N-Out signature.
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers: The Underrated Hero
Freddy's, with over 500 locations, is a frozen custard haven. The founders' love for this lesser-known treat inspired the extensive custard options on their menu. From sundaes to concretes, and even frozen custard sandwiches, Freddy's offers a unique and delicious experience. Their loyalty to frozen custard sets them apart and makes them a must-visit for ice cream enthusiasts.
Braum's Ice Cream & Dairy Store: Farm-to-Table Excellence
Braum's takes dairy seriously. With its own private dairy farm, milk takes only 36 hours to go from cow to store, ensuring freshness and quality. Their 'Premium' ice cream, as defined by the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), has a higher butterfat content and a lower overrun percentage, making it truly premium. The A2 milk from their farm is naturally sweet, and their vast selection of flavors, like German Chocolate and Birthday Cake, is a testament to their commitment to quality.
Steak 'n Shake: A Milkshake Haven
Steak 'n Shake, established in 1934, has an extensive milkshake menu. With over 19 flavors, including fruit, chocolate, and bakery-inspired options, they offer something for every taste. Their milkshakes are made with high-quality ice cream, and in 2022, they made headlines for being the only fast food chain offering paper straws, a more eco-friendly choice. Steak 'n Shake's commitment to quality and sustainability is impressive.
Shake Shack: East Coast Favorite
Shake Shack, an East Coast staple, serves simple scoops and hand-spun milkshakes made with frozen custard. Their custard contains 10% milkfat and 1.4% egg yolk solids, giving it a rich, creamy texture. With a variety of flavors, including limited-time seasonal options, Shake Shack offers a unique and indulgent experience. Although they discontinued their concretes in 2020, their milkshakes and floats remain a popular choice.
Smashburger: Häagen-Dazs Heaven
Smashburger is known for its smashed beef patties, but their milkshakes are a hidden gem. Made with Häagen-Dazs ice cream, classified as 'Super Premium', these shakes are a step above the rest. With simple, high-quality ingredients, like cream, milk, eggs, and sugar, Smashburger's shakes are an indulgent treat. A perfect pairing with their rosemary and garlic Smash Fries, these shakes are a must-try.
BurgerFi: Custard Shakes with a Twist
BurgerFi, with its grass-fed beef specialty, also offers Custard Shakes. Their frozen custard is made with whole milk, cream, sweetener, egg yolks, and a pinch of salt, resulting in a truly indulgent dessert. With signature flavors like Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry, and limited-time seasonal options, BurgerFi's shakes are a cut above the rest.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, a guide to the best ice creams in the fast food world. These chains have proven that quality and consistency can be achieved, even in the fast food industry. From frozen custard to 'Super Premium' ice cream, these treats are a step above the rest. So, the next time you're craving a sweet treat, remember these names and indulge in some of the best ice cream the fast food world has to offer.
