Frozen custard is a beloved dessert in the United States, known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. This delightful treat has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century. From its origins on the bustling boardwalks of Coney Island to its widespread popularity across the Midwest, frozen custard has become a staple in American dessert culture.
Early Beginnings
The story of frozen custard begins in Coney Island, New York, in 1919. It was here that
ice cream vendors Archie and Elton Kohr discovered that adding egg yolks to ice cream resulted in a smoother texture and helped the dessert stay cold longer. This innovation quickly caught on, and in their first weekend, the Kohrs sold an impressive 18,460 cones. This marked the beginning of frozen custard's journey into the hearts of Americans.
Throughout the 1920s, frozen custard's popularity spread beyond Coney Island. It became a favorite at traveling carnivals, where people could enjoy this creamy treat while experiencing the excitement of the fair. One notable figure in the history of frozen custard is Theodore R. Drewes Sr., a tennis player who began selling the dessert in Florida during the winter off-season. He later opened his own custard stand in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1930, further cementing the dessert's place in American culture.
Expansion and Popularity
The 1933 World's Fair in Chicago played a significant role in introducing frozen custard to a wider audience. The dessert's popularity soared following the fair, particularly in the Midwest. Milwaukee, Wisconsin, became known as the "unofficial frozen custard capital of the world," boasting the highest concentration of frozen custard shops per capita.
Milwaukee's frozen custard scene is characterized by a friendly rivalry among three major establishments: Kopp's Frozen Custard, Gilles Frozen Custard, and Leon's Frozen Custard. These iconic shops have been serving up delicious frozen custard for decades, each with its own loyal following. The city's love for frozen custard has helped maintain its status as a custard hotspot.
Modern-Day Custard Culture
Today, frozen custard continues to thrive across the United States, with major chains like Culver's, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, and Andy's Frozen Custard leading the charge. These chains have expanded beyond the Midwest, bringing the creamy delight to new regions and introducing it to a broader audience.
Frozen custard's enduring popularity can be attributed to its unique texture and flavor, which set it apart from traditional ice cream. The high butterfat content and the inclusion of egg yolks give it a rich, creamy consistency that is hard to resist. As frozen custard continues to evolve and expand, it remains a cherished part of American dessert culture, delighting generations with its smooth, indulgent taste.
