The Difference Between Vanilla and French Vanilla

by Slashfood Editor, Posted Jul 20th 2010 @ 1:00PM

Photo: Getty Images

With the recent announcement of Baskin-Robbins retiring 5 of its iconic flavors, including French vanilla, some of our readers asked us: "What's the difference between vanilla and French vanilla besides the yellow color?"

While both ice creams use vanilla bean to flavor the cream, the base of the ice cream is where the two differ. French vanilla ice cream has a custard base, which means egg yolks (where the yellow color comes in) are used to produce a thicker, creamier texture. Heating is also involved in a custard base. The classic vanilla ice cream has a base of cream or milk that does not need to be heated.

Related: The Perfect Ice Cream Maker, Vanilla Ice Cream Recipes

Filed Under: Features
Tags: baskin-robbins, french vanilla, ice cream, vanilla