Restaurant Ice Cream Copycat Recipes

The Rich History of Ice Cream

Ice cream's origins can be traced back to the Early Roman Empire. Emperor Nero (A.D. 37-68) famously ordered ice mixed with fresh fruits. Over time, concoctions of ices, sherbets, and milk became popular in the royal courts of Italy and France. The treat made its way to America, and in 1776, the first American ice cream parlor opened in New York City. The term "ice cream" was coined by American colonists, and it was even served to White House guests by Presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.

In 1832, Augustus Jackson developed new recipes for making ice cream, and in 1846, Nancy Johnson patented the hand-cranked freezer, revolutionizing ice cream production methods still used today.

Famous Restaurant Copycat Ice Cream Recipes

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream

Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield founded Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Inc. in 1978. Known for their unique and creative flavor combinations, Ben & Jerry’s has become a household name. One of their best-selling flavors is Cherry Garcia, named after the Grateful Dead's Jerry Garcia.

Ben & Jerry’s Copycat Cherry Garcia Ice Cream

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup shaved semisweet chocolate bars
• ¼ cup fresh Bing cherries, halved and pitted (canned cherries can be used, but drain the syrup)
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups heavy or whipping cream
• 1 cup milk

Instructions:

1. Place the shaved chocolate flakes and cherries in separate bowls. Cover and refrigerate.
2. Whisk the eggs in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in the sugar until completely blended, about 1 minute more.
4. Pour in the cream and milk, and whisk to blend.
5. Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions.
6. About 2 minutes before the ice cream is done, add the chocolate and cherries, then continue freezing until ready.

Ben & Jerry’s Copycat Chocolate Ice Cream

Ingredients:

• 4 oz unsweetened chocolate
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Instructions:

1. Gradually whisk in the milk and heat, stirring constantly, until smooth.
2. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Whisk the eggs in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually whisk in the sugar until completely blended, about 1 minute more.
5. Add the cream, vanilla, and salt, and whisk to blend.
6. Pour the chocolate mixture into the cream mixture and blend. Cover and refrigerate until cold, about 1-3 hours.
7. Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Dairy Queen Copycat Vanilla Ice Cream

Dairy Queen, another American favorite, is known for its soft-serve ice cream. Here’s how you can make a similar version at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 envelopes Knox gelatin
• ½ cup cold water
• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 cups cream

Instructions:

1. Soak Knox gelatin in cold water.
2. Heat milk, but do not boil.
3. Remove from heat, and add gelatin, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Cool and add cream.
5. Chill for 5 to 6 hours.
6. Pour into a 4 to 6-quart ice cream freezer can.
7. Process according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Yield: 16 servings

Interesting Ice Cream Facts

• The average American consumes about 23 pounds of ice cream each year. Source: International Dairy Foods Association
• The most popular ice cream flavor in the U.S. is vanilla, followed by chocolate. Source: International Dairy Foods Association
• The largest ice cream sundae ever made weighed over 54,000 pounds. Source: Guinness World Records

By making these copycat recipes at home, you can enjoy the rich flavors of your favorite ice creams without leaving your kitchen. Happy scooping!