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How to Make a Milkshake

Mar 22nd 2019 - Guest Blog,  Café,  Latest,  Serving, 

How to Make a Milkshake

As the calendar turns to spring, it’s only a matter of time before the weather starts to heat up. And that means milkshake season is right around the corner. The classic summertime treat is a classic for a reason. If you’re wondering how to make a milkshake, then you’ve come to the right place. This post will cover just that while also detailing some of the best milkshake machines on the market.

How Do You Make a Milkshake

If you want to make a delicious milkshake, there are a few things you will need.

  • Let's start with the equipment.
    • Blender or an immersion blender: To mix the ingredients for a smooth and creamy consistency.
    • A tall glass and spoon: To contain the milkshake and scoop up any chunks of ice cream if necessary.
  • Now, let's take a look at the ingredients. You'll only need two!
    • Milk: You can use any type of milk, such as whole milk, skim milk, or plant-based milk.
    • Ice cream: For the ice cream, you can use any flavor that you like, though vanilla and chocolate are the most popular options.

Step One: Choosing the Ice Cream

Before we dive into the steps of making a delicious milkshake, it's important to choose the right ice cream flavor. While vanilla and chocolate are classic options, the possibilities are endless.

It all comes down to personal preference and what you want in your milkshake. So, let's take a closer look at how to choose the perfect ice cream for your desired milkshake flavor.

(See more: Smoothie Guide For Cafes, Restaurants, And Concession Stands)

Types of Ice Cream to Consider

Making a milkshake at home is a satisfying and delicious treat, especially when you have the right ingredients. One of the key ingredients in any milkshake is, of course, the ice cream, and choosing the right type can make or break your shake.

Here are some types of ice cream to consider when making a milkshake (There are also healthier options added!):

1. Vanilla - Vanilla is a classic flavor and a popular choice for making milkshakes. It has a creamy, smooth texture and a sweet, subtle flavor. You can use pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean ice cream for an even richer taste.

2. Chocolate - Chocolate ice cream is one of the most commonly used flavors for making milkshakes. It has a rich, decadent taste that pairs well with other flavors and ingredients, such as chocolate chips or chocolate syrup.

3. Strawberry - For a fruity twist, strawberry ice cream is a great option. It has a sweet, refreshing flavor and a bright pink color that looks great in a tall glass. You can also add fresh strawberries to enhance the strawberry flavor even more.

4. Frozen Yogurt* - If you're looking for a healthier alternative, frozen yogurt can be used instead of ice cream. It's lower in calories and fat, but still has a creamy texture and comes in a variety of flavors.

5. Plant-Based Milk - For those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, plant-based milk is a great option. It can be used to make a dairy-free and delicious milkshake. Some popular plant-based milk include almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk.

Whether you choose a classic flavor or something more creative, the type of ice cream you use can greatly impact the taste and texture of your milkshake. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your perfect milkshake recipe.

(Know a little more here! : Gelato Vs. Ice Cream Vs. Frozen Yogurt Vs. Soft Serve)

Step Two: Preparing the Milk and Other Ingredients

Before diving into the milkshake-making process, it's important to choose high-quality ingredients.

  • Deciding How Much Milk to Use in the Milkshake
    • When it comes to making a milkshake, the quantity of milk plays a crucial role in determining its texture and taste. Using too much milk can make it thin and runny while using too little milk can make it too thick and difficult to slurp. So, how much milk should you use in a milkshake?
    • Ideally, a splash or a couple of ounces of milk is enough to create a premium consistency. If you add too much milk, the ice cream won't emulsify well, and the milkshake will be less tasty. The key is to strike a balance between the ice cream and the milk.
  • Considering Other Dairy Alternatives or Add-Ins for a Different Taste
    • While milk is the traditional liquid component in milkshakes, there are a variety of dairy alternatives and add-ins that can be used to create a unique and delicious taste.
    • One option is to use frozen yogurt instead of ice cream. This can give the milkshake a tangy taste and a creamier, smoother texture. Another dairy alternative to consider is plant-based milk, such as almond, cashew, or soy milk. These alternatives work just as well as traditional cow's milk, and can add a nutty or earthy flavor to the milkshake.
    • To add richness and depth to the flavor, nut butters like peanut butter or almond butter can be added. These also pair well with chocolate or caramel syrups that can be used as a sweet add-in. For a different taste experience, try adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom to your milkshake. These can provide a warm and comforting flavor profile.
  • Adding Extracts, Syrups and Sauces for Additional Flavor
    • If you want to take your milkshake's flavor to the next level, adding extracts, syrups, and sauces is the way to go. These ingredients can transform a basic milkshake into a deliciously flavored treat that will have you coming back for seconds.
    • When it comes to adding extracts, less is more. Start by adding a small amount, such as 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon, to your milk and cream mixture before adding the ice cream. Common extracts used in milkshakes include vanilla, almond, caramel, and peppermint. These extracts can give your milkshake added depth and richness of flavor.
    • To add syrups and sauces, drizzle about 1-2 tablespoons (depending on your preference) of the desired flavor into the blender after adding the milk and ice cream. Some popular choices include chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, and strawberry syrup. These can add a sweet or tangy kick to your milkshake that will tantalize your taste buds.
  • Blend everything together
    • Remember to blend everything together using a blender until you've reached desired consistency to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the milkshake. This will create a deliciously flavored, creamy consistency that will leave you craving more.
    • So don't be afraid to experiment with different extracts, syrups, and sauces to create your perfect milkshake.

Using Fresh Fruits as an Alternative to Extracts, Syrups, and Sauces

If you're on the hunt for a new way to infuse more flavor into your milkshakes, consider using fresh fruits as an alternative to extracts, syrups, and sauces. Not only do fresh fruits add natural sweetness and texture to your milkshake, but they also pack in added nutrition without relying on added sugar or artificial flavors.

Some of the best fruits to use in a milkshake include strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, peaches, mangoes, bananas, and pineapple. The possibilities are truly endless and can be tailored to your personal taste preferences.

To incorporate fresh fruits into your milkshake, simply chop the fruits into small chunks and add them to the blender along with the ice cream and milk. This will give your milkshake a bold, fruity flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of the ice cream.

In addition to being a delicious alternative, using fresh fruits also offers added health benefits. Fresh fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that extracts, syrups, and sauces simply can't offer.

Using Powders or Malts for Extra Texture and Flavor

If you are looking to add some depth and extra richness to your Milkshake, consider using powders or malts. Not only do they add flavor, but also texture, making your milkshake even more enjoyable.

Malt is a combination of malted barley, wheat flour, and whole milk, which provides a unique nutty undertone, solving the issue of having a lack of malt flavor. Malt powder or malted milk powder can be found in most grocery stores and are a great addition to your milkshake recipe.

To use malt powder or malted milk powder in your milkshake, add a tablespoon or two into the blender when making your shake. They can be easily mixed in with other ingredients and work well with any milkshake recipe. These powders can add a sweet and slightly nutty flavor to your shake that is sure to please.

Not only do powders and malts add flavor to your milkshake, but they also provide a pleasant texture. As they dissolve and mix into the shake, they can create a thicker and creamier consistency for a truly satisfying treat.

Replacing Part of the Milk with Heavy Cream For an Even Creamier Milkshake

If you're looking to take your homemade milkshake to the next level, consider replacing part of the milk with heavy cream. Heavy cream has a higher fat content than milk, which results in a creamier texture that is sure to make your milkshake even more indulgent.

To incorporate heavy cream into your milkshake recipe, simply measure out the amount of milk called for and replace 1/4 to 1/2 of that amount with heavy cream, depending on how creamy you want your shake to be. Be sure not to add too much heavy cream, as it can overwhelm the flavor and make the milkshake too thick.

By making this simple substitution, you can elevate the texture and richness of your milkshake, creating a truly decadent treat. So next time you're blending up a milkshake recipe, consider adding some heavy cream and enjoy the creamy goodness it brings to the table.

Adding Other Ingredients for More Flavor

When it comes to making the perfect milkshake, sometimes vanilla or chocolate ice cream alone just won't cut it. Luckily, there are plenty of delicious ingredients you can add to your shake for even more flavor. Here are a few popular options to consider:

1. Crushed Oreo cookies: For classic cookies and cream flavor, add some crushed Oreo cookies to your milkshake. The chocolatey cookie bits will add both texture and taste to your shake.

2. Hot fudge sauce: Adding a drizzle of cooled hot fudge sauce to your milkshake will give it a rich and decadent flavor. Plus, it looks great on top of a tall glass of creamy goodness.

3. Strawberry jam: Looking to add some fruity flavor to your shake? Try mixing in a spoonful of strawberry jam. It will add a subtle sweetness and a pretty pink hue to your shake.

4. Flavored syrups: Vanilla or chocolate syrup are classics for a reason, but you can also experiment with other flavors like caramel, raspberry, or even coconut. These syrups will add both sweetness and an extra burst of flavor to your shake.

5. Espresso powder: For coffee lovers, adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to your milkshake will give it a bold and flavorful kick. It's a great way to enjoy a coffeehouse treat at home.

strawberry milkshake blender

The beautiful thing about making milkshakes is that there’s no one way to do it. Depending on what kinds of equipment and ingredients you have on hand, you can take a few different approaches.

The most basic way of making a milkshake requires milk, ice cream, and a blender. Syrups and sauces can also be added to give your finished product a little flavoring. Chocolate, caramel, butterscotch, and fruit-based options are most common. If you’re interested in how to make a shake that boasts a bit more nutritional value, consider using almond milk as your liquid base. Cookies and candy can inject some extra sweetness or delicious texture into your milkshake. If your kitchen opts to make milkshakes with a blender, be sure to use a reliable, high-capacity unit like the Vitamix Quiet One.

How to Make a Milkshake with Ice Cream

how to make a milkshake with ice cream

Did you know it’s possible to make milkshakes without any milk at all? By blending flavored syrup with ice cream from a soft serve machine, you can streamline your milkshake-making process. In fact, this is how some fast-food restaurants, such as Dairy Queen, make their milkshakes. So if you’ve already invested in one of the best commercial ice cream machines and don’t want to also carry hard ice cream, this method is perfect for you.

Use a Commercial Milkshake Machine

use a commercial milkshake machine

If your foodservice makes a ton of milkshakes, you might want to consider using commercial milkshake machine. These units use premade milkshake mixtures and produce delicious milkshakes that taste just as fresh as the other methods. Many of these milkshake machines have multiple spouts, making it easy for you to offer several flavors. While some units conveniently fit atop counters, others require floor space.

If you’re interested in exploring the different options, we offer some of the best commercial milkshake machines on the market. The best milkshake maker for your specific operation depends on a couple variables. Size and scope should always be kept in mind.

In addition to producing milkshakes, the machines we carry can also be used to make delicious frozen drinks. Just Google commercial frozen drink machine recipes and try whatever sounds best.

How to Make the Best Milkshake

how to make the best milkshake

The milkshake that you and your customers consider “the best” will come down to personal preference. Everyone has their own tastes and will likely prefer something different. As a result, the best way to ensure that customers get the best milkshake possible is by offering a wide range of options. By stocking different flavors and mix-ins, you’ll be able to customize milkshakes for each and every customer. Do it right, and each customer will leave your shop with the exact milkshakes he wanted and a big smile on his face.

While other trends have come and gone, milkshakes have withstood the test of time. Since being introduced in the 1800s, the delicious drinks have continued to evolve and still remain popular. The multiple ways of making milkshakes ensures nearly any café, shop, or restaurant can serve them. So if you don’t currently offer milkshakes, what are you waiting for? Summer will be here before you know it!

If you like the idea of offering milkshakes but prefer a healthier alternative, be sure to check out our smoothie guide.