If you’re an ice cream enthusiast or simply love indulging in a sweet treat, you’ve likely heard about Culver’s and its famous frozen custard. But what exactly does “Culver’s ice cream menu” have to offer? In this post, we’ll explore every aspect of Culver’s delectable dessert lineup—from their signature frozen custard to creative concrete mixers and the exciting Flavor of the Day program. Whether you’re a first-timer or a devoted fan, read on to learn why Culver’s ice cream menu might just become your go-to destination for a refreshing dessert.
A Brief History of Culver’s and Its Custard Legacy
Culver’s began its journey in 1984 in Sauk City, Wisconsin—a region celebrated for its rich dairy heritage. Founded by Craig and Lea Culver, the restaurant initially gained popularity for its handcrafted ButterBurgers. However, alongside the savory delights, one dessert quickly captured the hearts of customers: the fresh, creamy frozen custard.
Culver’s custard is steeped in Midwestern tradition. Drawing on Wisconsin’s long-standing reputation for quality dairy products, the restaurant perfected its recipe to create a frozen treat that’s smoother and creamier than the typical ice cream. Today, Culver’s has expanded across more than 25 states, and while the ButterBurger remains iconic, it’s the ice cream menu that often turns casual diners into lifelong fans.
Understanding the Difference: Frozen Custard vs. Ice Cream
Before diving into the details of Culver’s ice cream menu, it’s important to understand what sets frozen custard apart from regular ice cream. Although both are delightful, frozen custard includes additional egg yolks and a higher butterfat content (usually around 14%), which results in a richer, creamier texture. Moreover, the custard is churned at a slower speed, which means less air is incorporated. This extra density gives Culver’s desserts their signature luxurious mouthfeel and smooth consistency.
Culver’s Ice Cream Menu
Culver’s ice cream menu is much more than a simple list of flavors—it’s an evolving collection of desserts that caters to every taste and mood. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cup of custard, a creative concrete mixer, or a shake that’s blended with premium mix-ins, Culver’s offers a wide variety of options that allow you to customize your dessert just the way you like it.
- Fresh Frozen Custard Scoops: Available in classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, with the option to add extra toppings.
- Concretes: A signature treat where frozen custard is blended with mix-ins to create a thick, spoonable dessert.
- Sundaes: Served with rich sauces and toppings, offering a more traditional dessert experience.
- Shakes and Malts: Handcrafted beverages that combine the creaminess of frozen custard with a variety of flavor additions.
- Flavor of the Day: A rotating selection that keeps the menu fresh and exciting with new, limited-time flavors.
Each item is crafted using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients that reflect Culver’s commitment to fresh, never-frozen dairy products.
Signature Offerings: Frozen Custard, Concretes, and Sundaes
Frozen Custard Scoops
At the heart of Culver’s dessert menu is its freshly made frozen custard. Whether you opt for a single scoop or a double, you’re guaranteed a rich taste that is smooth and incredibly creamy. The standard flavors include:
- Classic Vanilla Custard: Made with real Madagascar vanilla beans and fresh Wisconsin dairy.
- Decadent Chocolate Custard: A treat for chocolate lovers, boasting a deep cocoa flavor with a silky texture.
| Size | Prices |
|---|---|
| 1 Scoop | $3.49 |
| 2 Scoop | $4.49 |
| 3 Scoop | $5.49 |
Concrete Mixers®
Perhaps the most innovative aspect of Culver’s ice cream menu is the Concrete Mixer. These aren’t just regular blended desserts—they’re a creative canvas that lets you customize your treat:
- How It Works: Choose your base flavor (vanilla or chocolate), then select from a wide range of mix-ins such as Oreos, brownie pieces, fruit, nuts, or even premium candy bars like Butterfinger.
- Texture and Consistency: The concrete is blended slowly to maintain a thick, almost pudding-like texture, ensuring that every bite is filled with chunks of your favorite ingredients.
| Size | Prices |
|---|---|
| Mini | $4.49 |
| S | $4.99 |
| M | $5.79 |
| L | $6.69 |
Sundaes
For those who prefer a classic approach, Culver’s sundaes provide the perfect balance of flavor and texture:
- Hot Fudge Sundae: A timeless favorite featuring creamy custard drizzled with warm hot fudge.
- Turtle Sundae: Combines the indulgence of caramel sauce, roasted pecans, and a hint of chocolate to create a dessert that’s both salty and sweet.
- Caramel Cashew Sundae: A variation that emphasizes the nutty flavor of roasted cashews paired with rich caramel sauce.
Each sundae is typically crowned with a maraschino cherry, adding a touch of nostalgia to every serving.
| Size | Prices |
|---|---|
| 1 Scoop | $6.09 |
| 2 Scoop | $7.09 |
| 3 Scoop | $8.09 |
The Flavor of the Day Program: Always Something New
One of the most exciting aspects of Culver’s ice cream menu is the Flavor of the Day. This innovative program ensures that there’s always a new flavor waiting for you at your local Culver’s:
- Daily Rotations: Every day, Culver’s offers a unique custard flavor that may include seasonal ingredients or creative flavor combinations.
- Examples of Past Flavors: From pumpkin cheesecake during autumn to peppermint bark in winter, these flavors keep customers coming back for a taste of something new.
- Customer Engagement: Many locations even display the daily flavor on digital screens and offer updates through the Culver’s mobile app and social media channels.
This program not only creates excitement but also allows the restaurant to experiment with innovative flavor profiles that can eventually become permanent menu items.
Custom Shakes and Malts
Beyond the traditional frozen custard and concrete options, Culver’s also offers a selection of shakes and malts that cater to those who want their dessert in beverage form. These drinks are crafted using the same high-quality frozen custard and are a hit among both kids and adults.
What Makes Culver’s Shakes Stand Out?
- Creamy Consistency: Made with fresh, hand-churned custard, these shakes are thick, rich, and not overly sweet.
- Variety of Flavors: From classic vanilla and chocolate to seasonal specialties, there’s a shake to match every mood.
- Customizable Options: Just like with their solid desserts, you can add mix-ins such as brownies, fruit, or candy to create a shake that’s uniquely yours.
The Malt Experience
- What Is a Malt? A malt is similar to a shake, but with the addition of malted milk powder—a blend of dried milk and malted barley that gives the drink a toasty, nutty flavor.
- Popular Choices: Chocolate malts and vanilla malts are popular among regulars, offering an old-school diner vibe with a modern twist.
Whether you prefer your custard in a cup or blended into a shake, Culver’s custom drink options provide another way to enjoy the signature flavor of their frozen custard.
| Menu Items | Size | Prices |
|---|---|---|
| Shake | S | $3.99 |
| M | $4.99 | |
| L | $5.99 | |
| Malt | S | $4.39 |
| M | $5.39 | |
| L | $6.39 | |
| Culver’s® Root Beer Float | S | $4.19 |
| M | $5.19 | |
| L | $6.19 | |
| Fanta® Orange Float | S | $4.19 |
| M | $5.19 | |
| L | $6.19 |
Mix-Ins and Toppings: Create Your Perfect Treat
A standout feature of Culver’s ice cream menu is the extensive range of mix-ins and toppings that allow you to build your ideal dessert. These options transform a simple cup of frozen custard into a personalized creation.
Popular Toppings and Mix-Ins Include:
- Classic Add-Ons: Chocolate syrup, hot fudge, caramel drizzle, and whipped cream.
- Fruity Options: Fresh strawberries, bananas, raspberries, blackberries, and wild cherries for a burst of natural flavor.
- Crunchy and Nutty: Roasted pecans, cashews, granola clusters, and chopped nuts add texture and richness.
- Decadent Treats: Brownie pieces, cookie dough chunks, candy sprinkles, and premium candies like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Butterfinger pieces.
- Specialty Flavors: Unique options such as Andes Mints, Eli’s Butter Cake pieces, and even espresso for an unexpected twist.
How to Customize Your Dessert:
- Select Your Base: Start with your choice of custard (vanilla or chocolate) or a pre-made concrete.
- Pick Up to Two Base Flavors: For shakes and custard cups, you can often choose up to two flavors.
- Add Extra Toppings: Most locations allow you to add multiple toppings for an extra charge. (Note: Prices for extra toppings have varied over time due to ingredient and labor costs.)
- Mix and Match: Whether you’re ordering a sundae, a shake, or a concrete, the freedom to mix and match makes every order unique.
By offering a wide array of mix-ins and toppings, Culver’s ensures that every visit can be a new, customized experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between frozen custard and ice cream at Culver’s?
Frozen custard, like that served at Culver’s, contains extra egg yolks and a higher butterfat content. This results in a creamier, denser dessert compared to regular ice cream.
How often does the Flavor of the Day change?
The Flavor of the Day at Culver’s changes daily, offering a unique twist with seasonal ingredients and creative combinations. Check the menu board or the Culver’s app to see today’s flavor.
Can I customize my concrete mixer?
Yes! Culver’s allows you to choose your base custard flavor (vanilla or chocolate) and then add your favorite mix-ins from a wide variety of options.
Are there any healthy options on the menu?
While frozen custard is a treat, you can control your portion size and choose fewer toppings to manage calories. Nutritional information is available in-store and online to help you make informed decisions.
Does Culver’s offer shakes and malts?
Absolutely. Their shakes and malts are made with the same high-quality frozen custard and can be customized with various mix-ins, giving you a thick, delicious beverage option.
What toppings can I add to my custard?
You can choose from a wide array of toppings including chocolate syrup, hot fudge, caramel drizzle, fresh fruits, nuts, brownie pieces, cookie dough, and many more. Each topping is designed to complement the rich flavor of the custard.
How fresh is Culver’s custard?
Culver’s custard is made fresh throughout the day in small batches, ensuring that every serving is as fresh as possible and full of the signature creamy texture.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dessert that offers more than just a sweet treat, look no further than Culver’s. Their commitment to quality ingredients, expert preparation, and customer customization makes it a standout choice for anyone who appreciates the art of frozen custard.
So next time you’re in the mood for something creamy, refreshing, and utterly delicious, head over to your nearest Culver’s and explore their incredible ice cream menu. Whether it’s a quick cup on a hot summer day or a decadent concrete mixer to share with friends, Culver’s is ready to satisfy your sweet tooth in a way that few other chains can.