Dairy Queen^® Is Not Quite Ice Cream

Have you ever wondered why the treats at Dairy Queen^® taste different from traditional ice cream? The truth might surprise you. Dairy Queen, a beloved chain for soft serve lovers, doesn't actually sell what can legally be called "ice cream." So, what exactly are you indulging in when you visit Dairy Queen?

The Mystery of Dairy Queen's Soft Serve

Dairy Queen's soft serve falls into a category distinct from traditional ice cream due to its unique ingredients and preparation process. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, for a product to be considered ice cream, it must contain at least 10% milkfat. Dairy Queen's soft serve, however, contains only 5% milkfat. This is why you won't actually see the words "ice cream" on their menu. Instead, they advertise ice cream-like products, such as the DQ^® Blizzard^®, which they label as "treats."

Photo courtesy of Dairy Queen.

Dairy Queen's soft serve originally fell under the "ice milk" category, but after the FDA removed this classification in 1995 and redefined new categories based on fat content such as reduced-fat, light, or low-fat ice cream. Under the new classification, Dairy Queen's soft serve now qualifies as "reduced-fat ice cream."

What's Inside Dairy Queen's Soft Serve?

The ingredients in Dairy Queen's soft serve are carefully formulated to create that signature texture and taste. According to Dairy Queen's online menu, their soft serve is made of milk fat and nonfat milk, sugar, corn syrup, and a variety of stabilizers and emulsifiers that help maintain its consistency. This combination results in a product that is smoother and softer than traditional ice cream. While it might not meet the technical definition of ice cream, Dairy Queen's soft serve is crafted to deliver a delightful dessert experience.

The Science Behind the Soft Serve

One of the reasons Dairy Queen's soft serve texture is so distinct is the way it is made and served. For consumers, the most noticeable difference between soft serve and other frozen desserts is its airy texture. Soft serve contains 40% to 45% air, giving it a light consistency that's somewhere between ice cream and whipped cream. Additionally, the mixture is stored at a different temperature than ice cream. When served, the soft serve is dispensed at around 25 degrees Fahrenheit, warmer than traditional ice cream, which is typically served at -5 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. This slight warmth contributes to the soft, creamy mouthfeel that Dairy Queen is known for.

Why Fans Love It Anyway

Despite not being traditional ice cream, Dairy Queen's soft serve has garnered a loyal following. Many fans argue that the lower milk fat content makes it a lighter treat, perfect for a hot summer day. The unique texture and iconic swirl add to the experience, making Dairy Queen a nostalgic and beloved destination for dessert lovers.

References: Dairy Queen Doesn't Sell Real Ice Cream. So What Is It? | Is Dairy Queen Real Ice Cream?