The Delicious Secret Behind Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream
September 24, 2023
source: Rachel Linder/ Eat This, Not That!
Back in 1978, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield started selling ice cream out of a renovated gas station in Vermont. Little did they know, they were embarking on a journey that would lead to the creation of one of the most beloved ice cream brands in the world. Ben & Jerry’s has captured the hearts and taste buds of people everywhere, and there’s a good reason for it.
At first glance, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream may seem like a simple concoction of basic ingredients: sugar, cream, and milk. And while these ingredients are essential to any ice cream recipe, there’s a secret ingredient that sets Ben & Jerry’s apart from the rest – air. Yes, you read that right – air plays a crucial role in determining the overall quality of ice cream.
If you’re a fan of Ben & Jerry’s, you probably appreciate ice cream with low overrun. Overrun refers to the amount of air that is incorporated into the ice cream during the manufacturing process. A low overrun means that there is less air content in the ice cream, leaving more room for the rich and creamy butterfat. In simpler terms, less air means a denser, more indulgent ice cream.
Ice cream manufacturers can’t just sell you a product that is essentially half air, and that’s where overrun comes into play. Overrun is used to classify different types of ice cream based on the amount of air they contain. There are four primary categories: economy, regular, premium, and super-premium.
Economy ice cream typically has the highest overrun, meaning it contains a significant amount of air. This results in a lighter and less creamy texture, which can be a budget-friendly option for some consumers. Regular ice cream strikes a balance between air content and creaminess, making it a popular choice for many.
Premium ice cream takes things up a notch with lower overrun and a creamier consistency. Ben & Jerry’s fits in this category. Ben & Jerry’s goes easy on the air, resulting in a dense, velvety texture that’s bursting with flavor.
But why is Ben & Jerry’s so adamant about keeping the air content low? It all comes down to their commitment to quality and flavor. Less air means more room for the good stuff – the rich cream, the luscious milk, and the sweet sugar. This careful balance of ingredients creates a base that serves as a canvas for their creative and indulgent ice cream flavors.
Next time you’re enjoying a pint of Ben & Jerry’s, take a moment to savor the dense and creamy texture that sets it apart. It’s the result of a meticulous process that prioritizes flavor and quality above all else. The term “overrun” may sound technical, but it’s the key to understanding why Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is so irresistibly delicious.
Ben & Jerry’s has mastered the art of crafting ice cream that’s not just a treat but an experience. Their commitment to keeping the air content low ensures that every bite is a burst of flavor and creaminess. So, the next time you indulge in a scoop of Ben & Jerry’s, remember the delicious secret behind its extraordinary taste – the perfect balance of ingredients and a whole lot of love.
