Milkshake

A milkshake is a sweet, cold beverage that is usually made from milk, ice cream, or iced milk, and flavorings or sweeteners such as butterscotch, caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, or fruit syrup. Outside the United States, milkshakes using ice cream or iced milk are sometimes called a thick shake or a thick milkshake or in New England, a frappe.

History

The term milkshake was first used in the late 19th century. The early milkshakes were an alcoholic whiskey drink that has been described as a sturdy, healthful eggnog type of drink, with eggs, whiskey, etc., served as a tonic as well as a treat. However, by 1900, the term referred to "wholesome drinks made with chocolate, strawberry, or vanilla syrups." By the "early 1900s people were asking for the new treat, often with ice cream." By the 1930s, milkshakes were a popular drink at malts shop, which were the typical soda fountain of the period.

Preparation

Using a blender or milkshake machine, mix the milk, ice cream and flavorings. Some more elaborate milkshake recipes call for malt powder, natural or artificial flavorings, whipped cream, maraschino cherries and other toppings.

Variations

There are many variations of milkshakes including malteds, egg cream drinks, floats and others. Some restaurants offer "oversized" milkshakes with multiple servings, often with the addition of alcoholic beverages.

Health considerations

Milkshakes are high in sugar and calories. Some health organizations warn against consuming too many milkshakes.

See also

• List of dairy products
• List of drinks
• List of frozen dessert brands

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  Strawberry Milkshake
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  Milkshakes at Mel's Diner
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  Strawberry-Mint Liquid Nitrogen Shake