Ice cream is a timeless dessert that has been enjoyed by people of all ages and cultures for decades.
From simple vanilla to unique flavors like lavender or balsamic vinegar, ice cream never fails to surprise us.
However, in recent years, a new type of ice cream has entered the market, and it’s called slow-churned ice cream.
In this blog post, we will explore what slow-churned ice cream means, the process of making it, its nutritional differences from regular ice cream, and why it is considered a healthier alternative.
Before we dive into the topic of slow-churned ice cream, let’s first define what it is.
Slow-churned ice cream is a type of ice cream that undergoes a unique churning process, resulting in a denser, creamier texture than regular ice cream.
Compared to regular ice cream, slow-churned ice cream has a lower fat and calorie content, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.
Know more: How many calories are in a bowl of ice cream for slow-churned?
What Does Slow-Churned Ice Cream Mean?
Slow-churned ice cream refers to a unique churning process that creates a denser, creamier texture than regular ice cream.
This process involves spinning the ice cream mixture at a slower speed, allowing for a smaller amount of air to be incorporated into the mixture.
As a result, slow-churned ice cream has a smoother, creamier texture, making it more satisfying and enjoyable to eat.
The process of making slow-churned ice cream involves several steps.
First, the ice cream base is prepared, which usually consists of milk, cream, sugar, and other flavorings.
Next, the mixture is heated and cooled to the appropriate temperature, allowing the flavors to develop.
Finally, the mixture is churned at a slow speed, resulting in a dense, creamy texture.
Compared to regular ice cream, slow-churned ice cream has a lower fat and calorie content.
This is because the slower churning process results in less air being incorporated into the mixture, reducing the overall volume of the ice cream.
As a result, slow-churned ice cream contains less fat and fewer calories per serving.
Slow-Churned Ice Cream vs. Regular Ice Cream
There are several differences between slow-churned ice cream and regular ice cream. These include nutritional differences, texture and flavor differences, and examples of slow-churned and regular ice cream brands.
Nutritional Differences Between Slow-Churned and Regular Ice Cream
Slow-churned ice cream is considered a healthier alternative to regular ice cream due to its lower fat and calorie content.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a half-cup serving of vanilla slow-churned ice cream contains approximately 100-120 calories and 3-5 grams of fat, compared to regular ice cream, which can contain upwards of 250-300 calories and 15-20 grams of fat per serving.
Texture and Flavor Differences between Slow-Churned and Regular Ice Cream
One of the main differences between slow-churned and regular ice cream is the texture.
Slow-churned ice cream has a denser, creamier texture, while regular ice cream is lighter and fluffier due to the higher amount of air incorporated into the mixture during the churning process.
In terms of flavor, slow-churned ice cream tends to have a more intense and concentrated flavor profile than regular ice cream.
This is because the slower churning process allows the flavors to develop more fully, resulting in a richer, more satisfying flavor.
Examples of Slow-Churned and Regular Ice Cream Brands
Some popular slow-churned and regular ice cream brands are:
Slow-churned ice cream brands:
- Edy’s Slow Churned
- Breyers Double Churned
- Turkey Hill All Natural Slow Churned
- Blue Bell Light Slow Churned
- Graeter’s Ice Cream
- Ben & Jerry’s Moo-phoria Light Ice Cream
- Haagen-Dazs Light Ice Cream
Regular ice cream brands:
- Baskin-Robbins
- Ben & Jerry’s
- Haagen-Dazs
- Blue Bell Creameries
- Tillamook
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
- Magnum Ice Cream
It’s important to note that some regular ice cream brands offer “light” or “low-fat” versions of their ice cream, but these are not the same as slow-churned ice cream.
Light or low-fat ice cream may still have high air content and added sugars to compensate for the lower fat content.
Always check the label to ensure you are purchasing the type of ice cream that meets your dietary needs and preferences.
Double-churned ice cream is another variety of ice cream that is similar to slow churned.
As the name suggests, it undergoes an additional churning process to make it thicker and creamier.
Some popular double-churned ice cream brands include Breyers Double Churned and Tillamook Double Nutty Peanut Butter.
When it comes to choosing between slow-churned and regular ice cream, it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Slow-churned ice cream may have some nutritional benefits and a different texture than regular ice cream, but some people may prefer the taste and creaminess of regular ice cream.
It’s all about finding the type of ice cream that suits your taste buds and dietary needs.
Why Is Slow Churned Ice Cream Healthier?
Slow-churned ice cream is often marketed as a healthier alternative to regular ice cream, but is it really true? Let’s take a closer look at some of the reasons why slow-churned ice cream is often considered healthier.
Lower fat and calorie content in slow churned ice cream
One of the main reasons why slow churned ice cream is often considered healthier than regular ice cream is because it typically has a lower fat and calorie content.
This is because slow churned ice cream is made with a different churning process that reduces the amount of air and fat in the ice cream.
Because slow churned ice cream is made with less air, it is denser and more flavorful than regular ice cream.
This means you can enjoy a smaller serving size of slow churned ice cream and still feel satisfied, while also consuming fewer calories and less fat.
Reduced air content in slow churned ice cream
Another reason why slow churned ice cream is often considered healthier is because it typically has a lower air content than regular ice cream.
Regular ice cream can contain as much as 50% air, while slow churned ice cream typically contains only about 20-30% air.
Reducing the air content in ice cream can help to create a creamier, denser texture that is more satisfying to eat.
It also means you are consuming more actual ice cream, rather than just air.
Health benefits of consuming slow churned ice cream
In addition to being lower in calories and fat, slow churned ice cream may also offer some health benefits.
For example, because slow churned ice cream is made with a different churning process, it may be easier for some people to digest than regular ice cream.
Slow churned ice cream may also contain less sugar and other additives than regular ice cream, making it a healthier choice overall.
V. Double Churned Ice Cream Brands
Double churned ice cream is another type of ice cream that is often marketed as a healthier alternative to regular ice cream.
But what exactly is double churned ice cream, and how does it compare to slow churned ice cream?
Definition of double churned ice cream
Double churned ice cream is ice cream that has been churned twice, instead of just once like regular ice cream. This process helps to create a creamier, denser texture that is similar to slow churned ice cream.
Examples of double churned ice cream brands
Some popular double churned ice cream brands include:
- Breyers Double Churned heavenly hash
- Häagen-Dazs Extra Rich
- Ben & Jerry’s Double Churned
Differences between double churned and slow churned ice cream
While double churned ice cream and slow churned ice cream are both marketed as healthier alternatives to regular ice cream, there are some differences between the two.
For example, slow churned ice cream is typically made with a churning process that takes longer and involves less air, while double churned ice cream is made with a churning process that involves churning the ice cream twice.
This means that slow churned ice cream is often denser and more flavorful, while double churned ice cream is creamier and smoother.
VI. Edy’s Slow Churned vs. Regular
Now that we understand the process of making slow-churned ice cream and the benefits of consuming it, let’s compare Edy’s slow churned ice cream to its regular counterpart.
Comparison of Edy’s slow churned and regular ice cream:
Edy’s slow churned ice cream is marketed as a healthier alternative to its regular ice cream, but is it really healthier? Let’s compare the two:
- Calories: Edy’s slow churned vanilla ice cream has 100 calories per serving (1/2 cup), while the regular vanilla ice cream has 140 calories per serving.
- Fat: Edy’s slow churned vanilla ice cream has 3.5 grams of fat per serving, while the regular vanilla ice cream has 7 grams of fat per serving.
- Sugar: Both slow churned and regular ice cream have the same amount of sugar, 14 grams per serving.
- Protein: Both slow churned and regular ice cream have the same amount of protein, 2 grams per serving.
Nutritional differences between Edy’s slow churned and regular ice cream:
As we can see, Edy’s slow churned ice cream is lower in calories and fat than its regular ice cream.
However, it is important to note that slow churned ice cream is not necessarily “healthy” in the traditional sense, but rather a better alternative to regular ice cream for those who want to indulge without consuming excessive calories and fat.
Taste and texture differences between Edy’s slow churned and regular ice cream:
The slow churned ice cream process creates a denser, creamier texture that is often described as smoother and silkier than regular ice cream.
In terms of taste, slow churned ice cream has a more intense and pronounced flavor, as it is less diluted by air.
Edy’s slow churned ice cream also tends to have a more natural and authentic taste than its regular ice cream.
VII. FAQs
1. Is slow churned ice cream better for you?
Slow churned ice cream is a better alternative to regular ice cream for those who want to enjoy a treat without consuming excessive calories and fat.
However, it is still a high-calorie, high-fat food and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
2. What is the difference between slow churned and double churned ice cream?
Slow churned ice cream is made by using a slower churning process that incorporates less air, resulting in a denser, creamier texture.
Double churned ice cream is made by running already churned ice cream through the ice cream maker a second time to create an even denser, creamier texture.
3. How is slow churned ice cream made?
Slow churned ice cream is made by using a slower churning process that incorporates less air, resulting in a denser, creamier texture.
4. What is the best slow churned ice cream brand?
There are many great slow churned ice cream brands available, including Edy’s, Breyer’s, and Turkey Hill. The best brand for you will depend on your personal taste preferences.
Summary
Slow churned ice cream is a denser, creamier alternative to regular ice cream that is lower in calories and fat.
Edy’s slow churned ice cream is a great option for those who want to indulge without consuming excessive calories and fat, and it has a more intense and authentic flavor than its regular counterpart.
However, it is important to remember that slow churned ice cream is still a treat and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
The slow churning process used to create slow churned ice cream results in a smoother texture and a more intense flavor.
It also has lower fat and calorie content and reduced air content compared to regular ice cream, making it a healthier alternative.
Double churned ice cream, on the other hand, has a denser texture and is churned twice, resulting in a creamier, smoother product.
When it comes to brands, there are many options for slow churned ice cream, including Edy’s, Breyers, and Blue Bell.
It’s important to read the labels and compare the nutritional information to find the best option for your individual needs and preferences.

Rosy is a passionate ice cream blogger and vlogger. She shares her love for ice cream through reviews, recipes, and tips on finding the best ice cream shops. She attends festivals and events to try new flavors and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Follow her on this delicious journey to explore the world of ice cream.