Frozen custard is no small matter in Milwaukee, where everyone has their go-to stand. Although it looks a lot like ice cream to an outsider, custard is made from cream and egg yolks and has considerably less air added than ice cream, making it more dense. It’s generally so thick that your spoon won’t fall out when you turn this frozen treat upside down. Go ahead, we know you want to try it!
We’re not going to tell you which local custard stand is the best because it is clearly a matter of preference, but there’s no shortage of places to indulge via cone, dish, pint, or hey, even a quart! Whether you’re a longtime custard lover or novice, we’re sharing eight places to celebrate National Frozen Custard Day.
This burger-custard joint has three locations in Milwaukee, making it easy for you to indulge. They’ll even ship their custard anywhere in the US, but it will cost you a pretty penny. Kopp’s has been in business for over 65 years and for good reason; not only were they the first custard stand in the state to offer a flavor-of-the-day, they stay true to the founder’s German roots with unique offerings such as Bienenstichkuchen (almond flavored custard mingled with yellow cake pieces, honey, Bavarian cream and sliced almonds) and German Apple Streusel (imported tart apple flavor with apple pieces and delicious streusel crunchies).
LeDuc’s has been a custard staple in Southeastern Wisconsin since 1980. This novel spot offers more than 75 rotating flavors, with classic vanilla being by far the most popular option, followed by butter pecan. They pride themselves on their homemade mix, a recipe higher in butter, fat, and eggs, creating the perfect creamy consistency. LeDuc’s Frozen Custard is on the outskirts of the Milwaukee metropolitan area, but it’s worth a visit for a deliciously melty scoop or two.
Still a family-owned business, three generations of the Schneider family have served custard and drive-in food to hungry Milwaukeeans since 1942. Leon’s sticks to the classic, can’t-go-wrong flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and butter pecan. There’s also rotating specials including maple nut, strawberry, raspberry, mint, and cinnamon. After more than 30 years, Leon’s recently added a new flavor called Blue Moon! The stand’s stylish 50’s neon details and sign makes it a popular spot to snap some photos… after enjoying a few scoops, of course.
A nostalgic, vintage drive-thru offering excellent frozen custard with a huge variety of toppings. Being one of the city’s oldest stands, Kitt’s serves five flavors a day, including chocolate, vanilla, butter pecan, a berry flavor, and a candy flavor. The real fan-favorites? Butter pecan and black walnut. Black walnut is only available in the fall, giving customers something to look forward to!
Sweet frozen treats have been churning here for over 80 years, making Gilles the oldest custard stand in Milwaukee. This drive-in diner has lots of character, drawing in neighbors from near and far. You will love their classic custard in flavors like butter pecan, chocolate, and vanilla, plus rotating options ranging from Oreo and cheesecake, to key lime pie. You certainly cannot go wrong with a Gilles classic turtle sundae.
Voted Germantown’s business of the year, this frozen custard shop is dedicated to over-the-top service. Expect to find familiar favorites like rocky road and cookies & cream, alongside tempting treats like chocolate cream puff delight and a raspberry custard torte. Be sure to follow Robert’s website and social media handles for daily updates on their custard Flavor of the Day.
For more than 40 years, families have been frequenting this small neighborhood grill. It’s the spot where you’ll find local police officers, teachers, and little league teams. Fred’s keeps it simple and serves only the classics: vanilla, chocolate, and swirl. However, you can go topping-wild and get all that your taste buds desire. Otherwise, opt for the owner’s favorite: Georgia Sue’s Delight which consists of custard drizzled with hot caramel sauce, hot fudge sauce, crushed toffee, nuts, whipped cream, and a cherry.
Oscar’s is available to serve you out of their three greater Milwaukee locations: West Allis, Waukesha, and Franklin. Although their menu is packed with burgers and sandwiches, insiders know the star of the menu is their custard served in homemade, “secret” batter waffle cones. They offer chocolate and vanilla frozen custard daily and at least one specialty flavor. Butter pecan and mint chip tend to be the most popular, but customers also love the Mudder Butter that features a butter base flavor with peanuts, chocolate syrup, and peanut butter swirled in.
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