Who Still Makes Butter Brickle Ice Cream? The Definitive Guide

September 20, 2025 by Paula

Table of Contents

Who Still Makes Butter Brickle Ice Cream? A Sweet Investigation

Craving that distinctive, crunchy, buttery sweetness of Butter Brickle ice cream? You’re not alone! Many ice cream aficionados fondly remember this classic flavor, but finding it can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. This article answers the burning question: who still makes butter brickle ice cream? We’ll dive deep into the history of this iconic treat, explore the brands that continue to produce it (or variations of it), and even offer tips on where you can find it today. Consider this your comprehensive guide to all things Butter Brickle ice cream.

The Enduring Appeal of Butter Brickle Ice Cream

Butter Brickle ice cream holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. Its unique combination of creamy vanilla ice cream and crunchy, buttery toffee pieces creates a textural and flavor experience that’s hard to resist. But what exactly makes it so appealing?

The Perfect Balance: The sweetness of the vanilla ice cream is perfectly complemented by the salty, buttery notes of the toffee.
Textural Delight: The smooth, creamy ice cream is contrasted by the satisfying crunch of the Butter Brickle pieces.
Nostalgia Factor: For many, Butter Brickle ice cream evokes fond memories of childhood summers and simpler times.

This nostalgic appeal is a major driver behind the continued demand for Butter Brickle ice cream. Consumers are seeking comfort and familiarity in a world of ever-changing trends, and classic flavors like Butter Brickle offer a delicious escape.

A Brief History of Butter Brickle

The term “Butter Brickle” originated as a candy made by the Fenn Bros. Ice Cream and Candy Company of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In 1923, the Fenn brothers developed a hard, brittle toffee candy that they called Butter Brickle. The candy was a hit, and it wasn’t long before it was being incorporated into ice cream. The ice cream flavor quickly gained popularity, and it became a staple in ice cream parlors across the country.

Who Currently Manufactures Butter Brickle Ice Cream?

While the original Fenn Bros. Butter Brickle candy is no longer in production, the flavor lives on in ice cream. However, finding true “Butter Brickle” ice cream can be tricky. Many brands offer similar flavors under different names.

Blue Bell Creameries: Blue Bell, a regional favorite in the Southern United States, often offers a flavor called “Butter Crunch.” This is generally considered to be their version of Butter Brickle, featuring vanilla ice cream and crunchy butter toffee pieces. Availability varies, so check their website or local retailers.
Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Stores: Braum’s, a chain primarily located in Oklahoma and surrounding states, also makes their own version of Butter Brickle. They are known for making their ice cream from their own dairy farm.
Turkey Hill Dairy: Turkey Hill, a brand widely available in the Eastern United States, sometimes features a “Butter Pecan Crunch” flavor which is similar to Butter Brickle, but with pecans added.
Regional and Local Ice Cream Makers: Many smaller, regional ice cream makers also produce their own versions of Butter Brickle or similar flavors. These can often be found at local ice cream shops or farmers’ markets.

Note: It’s important to check the ingredients and descriptions carefully when searching for Butter Brickle ice cream. Some brands may use different types of toffee or add other ingredients like nuts or chocolate.

Understanding Butter Brickle Flavors and Variations

The term “Butter Brickle” is often used loosely to describe any ice cream flavor that combines vanilla ice cream with butter toffee pieces. However, there can be significant variations in the quality and ingredients used.

Type of Toffee: Some brands use a hard, brittle toffee, while others use a softer, chewier toffee. The type of toffee can significantly impact the overall texture and flavor of the ice cream.
Butter Content: The amount of butter used in the toffee can also vary. Higher-quality Butter Brickle ice cream will typically use more butter, resulting in a richer, more flavorful toffee.
Vanilla Base: The quality of the vanilla ice cream base is also important. Some brands use artificial vanilla flavoring, while others use real vanilla extract. Real vanilla extract will provide a more complex and nuanced flavor.
Add-ins: Some Butter Brickle ice cream flavors may include additional ingredients like nuts, chocolate, or caramel. These add-ins can enhance the flavor and texture of the ice cream, but they can also detract from the classic Butter Brickle experience.

When searching for Butter Brickle ice cream, be sure to read the ingredient list carefully and look for high-quality ingredients like real butter, real vanilla extract, and natural toffee.

Finding Butter Brickle Ice Cream: Tips and Strategies

Finding your favorite Butter Brickle ice cream doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Here are some tips and strategies to help you track it down:

Check Local Grocery Stores: Start by checking the ice cream section of your local grocery stores. Look for brands like Blue Bell, Turkey Hill, or other regional brands that may offer a Butter Brickle or similar flavor.
Visit Local Ice Cream Shops: Many local ice cream shops make their own ice cream in-house. Ask if they offer a Butter Brickle flavor or a similar butter toffee ice cream.
Search Online: Use online search engines like Google or Bing to search for “Butter Brickle ice cream near me.” This may help you find local ice cream shops or grocery stores that carry the flavor.
Contact Ice Cream Brands Directly: If you’re having trouble finding Butter Brickle ice cream, consider contacting ice cream brands directly to ask if they offer the flavor and where it’s available.
Check the Freezer Aisle Frequently: Since many brands offer Butter Brickle ice cream as a seasonal or limited-time flavor, it’s important to check the freezer aisle frequently to see if it’s back in stock.

Patience and persistence are key when searching for Butter Brickle ice cream. With a little effort, you’re sure to find your favorite version of this classic flavor.

The Health Aspects of Butter Brickle Ice Cream

Like most ice cream flavors, Butter Brickle is a treat best enjoyed in moderation. While it’s undeniably delicious, it’s also high in sugar, fat, and calories.

Sugar Content: Butter Brickle ice cream contains a significant amount of sugar, both from the ice cream base and the toffee pieces. Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health problems.
Fat Content: Butter Brickle ice cream is also high in fat, particularly saturated fat. Saturated fat can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Calorie Content: A single serving of Butter Brickle ice cream can contain a significant number of calories. Consuming too many calories can lead to weight gain.

If you’re watching your sugar, fat, or calorie intake, it’s important to be mindful of your Butter Brickle ice cream consumption. Consider enjoying it as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy the flavors of Butter Brickle, consider these alternatives:

Homemade Butter Brickle Ice Cream: Making your own Butter Brickle ice cream allows you to control the ingredients and reduce the amount of sugar and fat.
Frozen Yogurt with Toffee Pieces: Frozen yogurt is a lower-fat alternative to ice cream. Top it with a small amount of toffee pieces for a Butter Brickle-inspired treat.
Fruit with Toffee Bits: Sprinkle a small amount of crushed toffee bits over your favorite fruit for a healthy and satisfying snack.

Making Your Own Butter Brickle Ice Cream: A Recipe Guide

For the ultimate Butter Brickle experience, why not try making your own ice cream at home? This allows you to customize the ingredients and create a flavor that’s perfectly tailored to your taste.

Basic Vanilla Ice Cream Base Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
Pinch of salt

Instructions:

In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla bean (or vanilla extract), and salt.
Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved.
If using a vanilla bean, remove the bean and scrape out the seeds.
Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Homemade Butter Brickle Toffee Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
¼ cup water
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, water, and salt.
Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
Continue to cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 300°F (149°C) on a candy thermometer.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the toffee mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into a thin layer.
Let cool completely.
Break the toffee into small pieces.

Combining the Ice Cream and Toffee

Once the ice cream is churned and the toffee is cooled, gently fold the toffee pieces into the ice cream. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

The Future of Butter Brickle Ice Cream

While Butter Brickle ice cream may not be as widely available as some other flavors, its enduring appeal ensures that it will continue to be enjoyed by ice cream lovers for years to come. As consumers increasingly seek out nostalgic and comforting flavors, we may even see a resurgence in the popularity of this classic treat.

Expert Q&A: Butter Brickle Ice Cream

Here are some frequently asked questions about Butter Brickle ice cream, answered by our in-house ice cream expert:

Q: What’s the difference between Butter Brickle and Butter Pecan?
A: Butter Brickle typically features vanilla ice cream and butter toffee pieces, while Butter Pecan includes pecans in addition to the buttery flavor. Some brands may blend the two.
Q: Can I use a different type of sugar for the homemade toffee?
A: Granulated sugar is recommended for its texture and caramelization properties. Brown sugar can be used for a more molasses-like flavor, but the texture will be softer.
Q: How do I prevent the toffee from sticking to the pan?
A: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper is essential to prevent sticking. You can also lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray.
Q: What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
A: While an ice cream maker provides the best texture, you can try the “no-churn” method. Simply combine the ice cream base ingredients, freeze for a few hours, then whisk vigorously every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals.
Q: How long does homemade Butter Brickle ice cream last?
A: Homemade ice cream is best consumed within 1-2 weeks for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: Why is it so hard to find “true” Butter Brickle ice cream?
A: The original Butter Brickle candy is no longer made, so ice cream manufacturers often use similar names (like Butter Crunch) to avoid trademark issues.
Q: Can I add chocolate to my Butter Brickle ice cream?
A: Absolutely! Chocolate-covered toffee pieces or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add a decadent twist to your Butter Brickle experience.
Q: Is there a vegan version of Butter Brickle ice cream?
A: Yes, it’s possible to make a vegan version using plant-based milk and butter substitutes. You’ll need to adjust the recipe accordingly.
Q: What’s the best way to store Butter Brickle ice cream?
A: Store it in an airtight container in the coldest part of your freezer to prevent freezer burn and maintain its creamy texture.
Q: Can I make the toffee ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the toffee a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Conclusion: The Sweet Search Continues

The quest to find the perfect Butter Brickle ice cream may require a bit of effort, but the reward is well worth it. Whether you’re searching for a nostalgic treat or simply craving a delicious combination of vanilla and toffee, Butter Brickle ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Remember to check local grocery stores, ice cream shops, and online retailers for the best selection. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own Butter Brickle ice cream at home! Now, we want to hear from you. Share your favorite Butter Brickle ice cream experiences in the comments below!