Frozen custard originated in the United States, and its exact origins can be traced back to the early 20th century. The popular belief is that frozen custard was first introduced at Coney Island, New York, during the 1919 World’s Fair. However, the true credit for inventing frozen custard is often given to Archie and Elton Kohr, who sold the first frozen custard at Coney Island in 1939. The Kohr brothers developed a unique recipe that included egg yolks, which gave the frozen custard its rich and creamy texture.

Unlike regular ice cream, which typically contains more air and less egg yolk, frozen custard is made with a higher proportion of egg yolk and has a denser, smoother texture. This process of incorporating egg yolk into the mixture is what distinguishes frozen custard from traditional ice cream.

As for its popularity, frozen custard has certainly gained a dedicated following and is considered a beloved treat in certain regions of the United States. It is especially popular in the Midwest and parts of the East Coast. In these areas, you’ll often find frozen custard stands and shops that serve it in various flavors, and it’s a staple at state fairs and amusement parks.

However, compared to other frozen desserts like ice cream, gelato, or frozen yogurt, frozen custard might not be as widespread in popularity on a national or international scale. Its fame remains more regionalized due to the limited number of outlets that specialize in frozen custard.

The popularity of frozen custard can fluctuate over time, and it might continue to gain popularity in new regions as people discover its unique and delicious taste. As with any food item, its popularity largely depends on regional preferences and the availability of frozen custard vendors in a given area.

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