At first glance, a milkshake may seem like a simple combination of ice cream and milk. However, there is more complexity to crafting the perfect milkshake than many people realize. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, history, and variations of milkshakes to understand what really goes into making these cold, creamy treats.
What are the basic ingredients in a milkshake?
The two essential ingredients in a classic milkshake are ice cream and milk. The basic formula calls for ice cream and cold milk to be blended together until smooth and frothy. The amount of ice cream versus milk can vary based on personal preferences and recipe variations. Some people prefer a thicker, more ice cream-forward milkshake, while others opt for a lighter and more milk-heavy version. Here is a breakdown of the key ingredients:
| Ingredient | Role |
|---|---|
| Ice cream | Provides thickness, richness, flavor, and creamy texture |
| Milk | Adds creaminess and a lighter consistency |
Premium or high-fat ice cream tends to make the thickest, most indulgent milkshakes. Low-fat ice cream or soft serve can be used as well but result in a less thick end product. Whole milk also creates a creamier shake than skim or low-fat versions. So the higher the fat content in both the ice cream and milk, the richer the finished milkshake.
What other ingredients can be added to milkshakes?
While ice cream and milk are the two essentials, there are many other possible ingredients that can be added to create different milkshake flavors and variations:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Flavor syrups/sauces | Add flavored syrups like chocolate, caramel, or strawberry to complement or enhance the base ice cream flavor |
| Fresh fruit | Contributes fruit flavor and texture – commonly strawberries, bananas, pineapple, etc. |
| Whipped cream | Tops off the milkshake with a light, foamy texture |
| Sprinkles/candy toppings | Add visual appeal and extra flavor/texture |
| Cookies/brownies | Mix in crumbled cookies or brownies for pieces of texture and flavor pop |
| Chocolate chips/syrup | For extra chocolate flavor and richness |
The possibilities are nearly endless when it comes to milkshake toppings and mix-ins. Popular options include malt powder, peanut butter, chocolate chips, crumbled cookies, cake frosting, and pretty much any candy imaginable. The mix-in ingredients paired with the ice cream base are key for creating a memorable and unique milkshake flavor experience.
Brief history of milkshakes
The earliest predecessors of the modern milkshake date back to the late 19th century. Back then, they were simply ice cream blended with milk and weren’t yet referred to as “milkshakes.” Some key moments in milkshake history include:
| Year | Milkshake Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1885 | W. Braum created the electric-powered milkshake mixer, allowing milkshakes to be more conveniently mass-produced |
| 1922 | Ivar “Pop” Coulson created the official “horseradish milkshake” by adding two scoops of ice cream to a horseradish-flavored milk drink -origin of “milkshake” name |
| 1930s | Milkshakes became a popular low-cost treat during the Great Depression |
| 1940s | Malt powder was commonly added to milkshakes, creating the iconic “malted milkshake” |
| 1950s | Milkshakes hit their peak of popularity in American pop culture and diners |
So while blended milk and ice cream drinks have been around for over a century, milkshakes as we know them today didn’t take off until the early 20th century. The addition of malt powder in the 1940s created the familiar flavor many associate with classic diner-style milkshakes.
How does blending affect the texture?
Blending is vital to achieving the ideal creamy texture and consistency of a milkshake. Here’s an overview of how blending impacts the end result:
- Creates an emulsion – Blending forces the fat molecules in the ice cream to break down and disperse throughout the milk. This allows the ice cream and milk to join together in a homogenous emulsion, rather than separate.
- Incorporates air – The blending action whips air into the mixture, resulting in a light, aerated texture.
- Breaks up ice crystals – Blending breaks down the ice crystals present in ice cream, creating a smooth, creamy mouthfeel.
- Distributes mix-ins – Blending evenly distributes any added mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit throughout the shake.
- Produces desired consistency – Blending time controls thickness, from a drinkable “thin shake” to an ultra thick “concrete.”
Proper technique is key for blending. Many pros employ a combination of blending methods. The milkshake is first whipped using a drink mixer to aerate the mixture. Then it is transferred to a high-powered blender like a Vitamix to break down ice crystals and create an ultra-smooth and creamy final product.
What makes some milkshakes extra thick?
There are a few key factors that contribute to making extra thick, “spoonable” milkshakes:
- Higher fat ice cream – Premium ice creams with higher milkfat and lower air content result in thicker shakes.
- Smaller ice crystals – Blending for longer ensures the ice cream is fully broken down into tiny, undetectable ice particles.
- Less milk – Using a lower milk to ice cream ratio results in a thicker consistency.
- Additional mix-ins – Ingredients like cookies or brownies add more texture and thickness.
- Low serving temperature – Milkshakes served closer to freezing are able to maintain a thicker texture.
Some fast food places and diners use thickening agents like guar or xanthan gum to give their shakes an extra thick quality. But for most homemade shakes, the ingredients and mixing technique have the biggest impact on viscosity.
What are some popular milkshake styles and flavors?
There are endless possibilities when it comes to milkshake flavors and variations. Some top styles include:
| Milkshake Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Vanilla | The simple, classic flavor – can be embellished with mix-ins like fruit or candy |
| Chocolate | Chocolate ice cream and syrup make for a rich, decadent shake |
| Cookies and Cream | Cookie crumbles blended throughout vanilla ice cream |
| Mint Chocolate Chip | Refreshing mint ice cream with bursts of chocolate chips |
| Strawberry | Fresh strawberries enhance creamy strawberry ice cream |
| Peanut Butter | Nutty peanut butter swirled into chocolate or vanilla shakes |
| Coffee | A shot of espresso adds coffee flavor to chocolate or vanilla |
| Malt | Malt powder adds a distinctive rich, malted flavor |
| Birthday Cake | Rainbow sprinkles, frosting, and cake batter create birthday in a glass |
The most popular restaurant milkshake flavor is usually vanilla, while chocolate comes in second. But part of the fun is getting creative with unique flavor combinations!
Milkshake vs. smoothie – What’s the difference?
Milkshakes and smoothies have some similarities, but there are a few key differences:
| Factor | Milkshake | Smoothie |
|---|---|---|
| Main ingredients | Ice cream + milk | Fresh or frozen fruit + juice or dairy |
| Purpose | Treat/dessert | Beverage/light meal |
| Texture | Thick and creamy | Variable – can be thick but usually thinner than milkshake |
| Serving temperature | Cold | Cold but not as icy as milkshake |
| Flavor | Typically sweet | Can range from sweet to tart |
| Calories/nutrition | Higher in fat, lower in vitamins | Can be low calorie, high in vitamins |
The main distinction is that smoothies are focused more on fruit, while milkshakes are dairy-based. Smoothies can be healthier depending on ingredients, but milkshakes pack more indulgence!
Are milkshakes just for kids?
Though milkshakes are popular among children, they definitely aren’t just for kids. Milkshakes are loved by adults across all ages for many reasons:
- Nostalgia – Milkshakes can remind adults of beloved childhood memories at burger joints and ice cream parlors.
- Treat – They provide an indulgent, comforting dessert without the time and effort of ice cream sundaes.
- Variety – There are endless milkshake flavors to satisfy any preference or craving.
- Customization – Adults can spike shakes with liquor or mix-ins tailored to adult tastes.
- Anytime enjoyment – Unlike ice cream, milkshakes can be enjoyed year-round regardless of temperature.
Sure, milkshakes on kids’ menus make them perfect for little ones. But their nostalgic flavor and versatility give milkshakes cross-generational appeal.
Are milkshakes healthy?
Milkshakes aren’t typically viewed as a healthy food due to their high calorie, fat, and sugar content. However, they can be made healthier in some ways:
- Use lower-fat ice cream and milk – Reduces calories and fat while maintaining creaminess.
- Add fresh fruit – Fruit boosts vitamins, fiber, and nutrients.
- Use Greek yogurt – Replacing some ice cream with yogurt adds protein and benefits.
- Skip syrups/sugar – Prevents excess added sugars.
- Portion control – Stick to single servings instead of jumbo sizes.
- Occasional treat – Enjoy shakes in moderation as a sometimes food instead of every day.
There are also many milkshake-inspired smoothie recipes made with just fruit, yogurt, and milk or juice. While not exactly the same texture, these provide a healthier, lighter option.
Conclusion
While milkshakes may seem simple, there are many complexities, variations, and techniques involved in crafting the perfect shake. Their history stretches back over a century, but milkshakes remain iconic treats synonymous with diners and indulgence. Though often deemed unhealthy, they can be adjusted to be lighter when made with care. Milkshakes provide a nutritionally mixed bag, but their nostalgic flavor continues satisfying fans both young and old.