Copycat Wendy’s Brownie Batter Frosty Recipe

The Wendy’s Brownie Batter Frosty isn’t just a mere dessert; it’s a chocolatey escapade, a sweet retreat from the mundane, and now it’s within your reach from the comfort of your kitchen. I’ve spent countless hours perfecting this recipe. And let me tell you, the results are nothing short of spectacular.

How to make Wendy’s Brownie Batter Frosty

Wendy’s Brownie Batter Frosty is a decadent twist on the classic Frosty, introduced as part of the new Frosty Swirls lineup. This indulgent treat features your choice of a Chocolate or Vanilla Frosty base, swirled with rich brownie batter sauce, creating a dessert that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.

Ingredients:

For the Frosty:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Brownie Batter Swirl:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Make the Frosty Base:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
2. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined and the cocoa powder is fully dissolved.
3. Cover and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least one hour or until it is completely cold.

2. Prepare the Brownie Batter Swirl:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth.
2. Stir in flour and salt, mixing until just incorporated to avoid overmixing.
3. Add milk and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture forms a thick, brownie batter consistency. Set aside at room temperature.

3. Churn the Frosty:

1. Pour the chilled Frosty mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
2. Once churned, gently fold in dollops of the brownie batter swirl, creating marbled patterns. Do not over mix to ensure you maintain distinct swirls of brownie batter.

To Serve:

1. Serve immediately for a softer consistency, resembling the texture of Wendy’s Frosty, or freeze for 1-2 hours for a firmer texture. Scoop into bowls or glasses.

Tips for Making Wendy’s Brownie Batter Frosty:

• Ice Cream Maker Alternative: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can pour the Frosty mixture into a shallow dish and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Dairy-Free Version: To create a vegan version, substitute dairy ingredients with coconut cream, almond milk, and plant-based condensed milk.
• Texture Matters: The secret to a Frosty’s texture is in its temperature and consistency. Too hard, and it lacks that smooth, velvety flow; too soft, and it doesn’t quite satisfy the crave. Aim for somewhere right in the middle.
• Adding Brownie Pieces: For an extra chocolatey flair, consider folding in small brownie pieces in addition to the brownie batter swirl.

What to serve with

Serving a Wendy’s Brownie Batter Frosty is an indulgence that stands out on its own, but pairing it with the right companion can elevate this chocolate bliss to new heights.

Complementary Desserts

• Warm Chocolate Chip Cookies: The classic combination of cookies and milkshake gets a gourmet twist. Serve your Frosty with a side of freshly baked, slightly gooey chocolate chip cookies. The contrast between the warm cookies and the cold Frosty is divine.
• Homemade Brownies: Double down on the chocolate by pairing your Frosty with a square of dense, fudgy brownie. The rich chocolate flavor of the brownies, accompanied by the smooth Frosty, creates a decadent chocolate experience.
• Grilled Fruit Skewers: If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider grilled fruit skewers. Pineapple, peaches, and plums work wonderfully when lightly grilled and can add a sweet, smoky edge that complements the chocolate Frosty beautifully.

Savory Snacks

• Salty Pretzels: The classic salty-sweet combo never disappoints. The crunch and saltiness of pretzels juxtaposed with the creamy, sweet Frosty can be quite addictive.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Another sweet and savory pairing, sweet potato fries offer a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with the chocolatey Frosty. A sprinkle of sea salt on the fries further enhances this combination.
• Spicy Nuts: A bowl of mixed nuts, lightly coated with spices and a hint of sugar, can provide a delightful contrast to the sweet Frosty. The spice and crunch add an intriguing layer of flavor that balances out the sweetness.

Beverages

• Coffee or Espresso: For an adult gathering, serving a strong, black coffee or an espresso shot alongside the Frosty can be a sophisticated touch. The bitterness of the coffee contrasts with the sweet Frosty, making each sip and bite a delightful experience.
• Caramel Latte: If you prefer your beverages to be sweeter, a caramel latte can complement the flavors in the Frosty while adding a different layer of sweetness and creaminess.
• Chilled Milk: Sometimes, sticking to the basics is the best approach. A cold glass of milk alongside the Frosty can be refreshing and complement the chocolate flavors without overwhelming them.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a homemade version of Wendy’s Brownie Batter Frosty allows for personalization and the opportunity to substitute ingredients based on dietary needs and preferences or to use what’s already in your kitchen.

1. Ice Cream Substitutes

The base of any Frosty is essentially ice cream, and choosing the right substitute can significantly influence both the taste and texture.

• Dairy-Free/Vegan Options: For a vegan version, choose plant-based ice cream made from almond, coconut, cashew, or soy milk. These options can provide a creamy texture similar to traditional ice cream with varying underlying flavors.
• Low-Calorie/High-Protein Options: For a healthier version, consider using a low-calorie or high-protein ice cream alternative. Brands such as Halo Top offer lower calorie counts and higher protein content, making them an excellent substitute without compromising the creamy texture.
• Frozen Yogurt: For a tangier twist, frozen yogurt can be a great substitute. While the texture might be slightly less creamy, the tanginess can add an interesting flavor profile to your Frosty.

2. Brownie Mix Substitutes

The brownie batter component is crucial for achieving that iconic chocolatey flavor. However, traditional brownie mix can be substituted based on dietary needs or preferences.

• Gluten-Free Brownie Mix: For those avoiding gluten, several brands offer gluten-free brownie mixes that can be used in place of traditional mixes. These often use rice flour or almond flour as substitutes, which may slightly alter the texture but still provide a rich, chocolatey flavor.
• Homemade Brownie Batter: Making your own brownie batter from scratch allows you to completely control the ingredients. Use cacao powder, your choice of sugar or sugar alternative, a gluten-free flour blend, and plant-based milk to keep it vegan. This way, you can adjust the sweetness and flavor to your liking.
• Black Bean Puree: For a healthier twist and to keep it incredibly moist, consider using black bean puree as a base for your brownie component. While it might sound unconventional, black beans offer a rich, dense texture without imparting a bean flavor, especially when mixed with strong chocolate components.

3. Milk Substitutes

Milk helps to blend the Frosty to the perfect consistency. Depending on dietary restrictions or preferences, there are several substitutes you can use.

• Plant-Based Milk: Almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, and soy milk are all excellent dairy-free options. Each imparts a hint of its own flavor, with coconut milk being richer and oat milk offering a subtle sweetness.
• Lactose-Free Milk: For those who are lactose intolerant but prefer the taste of dairy, lactose-free milk provides a direct substitute without the digestive discomfort.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: If you’re not concerned about calories and are chasing a richer, creamier texture, substituting part of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half can elevate the indulgence factor of your Frosty.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the goal is to create complementary textures and flavors that will enhance the enjoyment of the Wendy’s Brownie Batter Frosty.