Technically, we can't call Dairy Queen's soft serve real ice cream—here's why.
Is Dairy Queen Real Ice Cream?
Updated on Feb. 28, 2024
Dairy Queen is known for a lot of things, but right at the top of the list is definitely their famous soft serve. The delicious treat has always been a staple for the chain, and it’s the key to the super popular Dairy Queen Blizzard.
While we might have ordered it a million times, there are plenty of things we didn’t know about the Blizzard—including that its main ingredient isn’t technically ice cream. So, if you’ve wondered, “Is Dairy Queen real ice cream?” we’ve got the answers.
Why Dairy Queen’s Soft Serve Can’t Be Called Ice Cream
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations for what can be called “ice cream” require the product to contain at least 10% butterfat or milkfat. Initially, DQ’s soft serve fit in the category of “ice milk”, but the FDA removed this category and instead allowed companies to sort their products into three new ones: “reduced-fat,” “light” and “low-fat” ice cream.
According to the new regulations, Dairy Queen’s soft serve is now in the “reduced-fat” ice cream category, while their shake mix is considered “low-fat” ice cream. However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t mean their products are 95% fat-free! These categories only confirm the percentage of butterfat, which is 5% in the case of DQ’s soft serve.
That’s Not the Only Difference
While the definitions may have changed, DQ’s recipe for its soft serve has never undergone any changes since its inception. However, Dairy Queen’s soft serve differs from “ice cream” in more ways than just its milkfat content. If you’ve ordered a Blizzard, you’ve definitely noticed how soft and pliable this Dairy Queen treat is compared to regular ice cream. This is because soft serve ice cream has air added into it to enhance creaminess during the freezing process.
The soft serve is also kept at a different temperature when compared to regular ice cream and contains emulsifiers to keep all the ingredients together. These differences are also why DQ Blizzards don’t fall out of the cup!
Can’t get enough of DQ’s soft serve? Don’t forget to check out their latest Blizzard—or if nostalgia’s more your thing, opt for a Peanut Butter Bash Sundae!
Try These Dairy Queen Copycat Recipes
Inspired by: Original Cheeseburger Signature StackburgerTwo mouthwatering burger patties stacked high with toppings like melted cheese, pickles, ketchup and mustard. Our smash burger recipe is just like DQ's Original Signature Stackburger—and maybe even better.
Inspired by: Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Blizzard TreatThese rich chocolate peanut butter shakes will make you feel as if you're sitting in your local Dairy Queen. But since you're the one whipping it up, you can add as many Reese's cups as you heart desires!
Inspired by: Pretzel Sticks with Zesty QuesoServe up warm pretzel sticks straight from the oven. Don't forget the cheese sauce! To make it zesty just like DQ's, add diced jalapenos and green chiles.
Inspired by: Caramel MooLatteYou can easily indulge in a MooLatte at home anytime. This copycat recipe will give you the extra caffeine to get you through your day.
Fried Chicken SandwichThere's something about a fried chicken sandwich that just hits the spot. When paired with a basket of french fries, some coleslaw and a refreshing beer or lemonade, it's hard to resist this fried fare.
Inspired by: Banana SplitServe up this classic Dairy Queen staple at home! We promise it's not as intimidating as it looks. Top scoops of your favorite vanilla ice cream with sauce, whipped cream, strawberry slices and bananas. Sprinkle a few nuts on top for good measure, too.
Inspired by: Cheese CurdsDQ's cheese curds are the ultimate in delicious comfort food. Dip them in ranch dressing, ketchup or barbecue sauce for the full experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream RecipeOur vanilla ice cream recipe is perfect for those who have never made ice cream in their life, as well as ice cream aficionados looking for a go-to, tried-and-true recipe to keep in their back pocket.
Chicken StripsHere's how to deep-fry or bake crispy, golden chicken strips, plus tons of ideas for how to serve them.
Inspired by: Strawberry ShakeNo matter what the temperature is outside, there's nothing quite like a cool strawberry shake to finish a meal. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream for the finishing touch.
Inspired by: Onion RingsThese Dairy Queen-inspired onion rings are a healthy alternative to the deep-fried version. But don't worry, they're still as crispy as ever!
Inspired by: Mint Chip ShakeYup, we even have a copycat recipe for DQ's latest (and limited time) release: their Mint Chip Shake! Ours even uses up a handful of Thin Mints...talk about yum.
Inspired by: Hot Fudge SundaeOur hot fudge sauce always turns out smooth and yummy—just like DQ's. The dark chocolate flavor, with a hint of rum extract, is not overly sweet but will still satisfy a chocoholic's cravings when served over vanilla ice cream.
Inspired by: Cherry Misty FreezeBlend together a homemade Cherry Misty Freeze for a cool and refreshing treat. It's sure to hit the spot on both warm and cool days alike.
