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Ice cream base is the foundational mixture used to create ice cream, typically consisting of milk, cream, sugar, and egg yolks or stabilizers. It originates from European custard-based traditions and is now a global starting point for countless frozen dessert variations.
It is high in fat and carbohydrates, primarily from dairy fats and sugars, providing calcium and some protein. A standard half-cup serving of finished ice cream made from this base generally ranges from 200 to 300 calories.
The base's high fat and sugar content not only creates a rich flavor but also physically inhibits ice crystal formation, which is the key to achieving a smooth, scoopable texture rather than a solid block of ice.