Malts vs Shakes

What is a Malt? Malt vs. Shake

If you asked your friends for the best milkshake spot in town, chances are they'd have some good recommendations. Swap out the word milkshake for malt, however, and you might see some blank stares. Many people think malts and shakes are the same thing and, although they have a lot in common, there's an important distinction that sets them apart. So, what is a malt? And what's the difference between a malt and a shake? Keep reading as we explore what makes each classic dessert unique and share our tips for making your own at home.

What is a Milkshake?

A milkshake, or shake, is a frozen drink that's made from blending milk and ice cream together. Prior to 1922, the blending process was actually done by hand1 with a shaking motion, hence the name. However, the electric blender was invented that same year specifically for milkshakes, and today, they are widely available and much more popular than malted milkshakes.

How to Make a Milkshake

To make a milkshake, you'll need the following:

  • Ice Cream: Any flavor will do. Frozen yogurt can be used as well.
  • Milk: Feel free to substitute for almond, soy, or another type of milk.
  • Mix-ins: Add your favorite syrup or topping for some extra flavor.

Although you can't go wrong with simple flavors, you can always be adventurous by trying new combinations. Once you've got your ingredients, combine them with either a hand mixer, an immersion blender, or an electric blender.

What is a Malt?

Invented in 1922 and popularized during Prohibition, a malted milkshake, most often shortened to malt, has the same ingredients as a regular milkshake but with one important addition: malted milk. And while it may seem insignificant, it makes a big difference when comparing the flavor of a malt vs. milkshake. Adding a tablespoon will enhance the richness and sweetness of the drink but also add a bit of a savory taste. This makes it a great pairing for most ice cream flavors, including the classic chocolate and vanilla.

What is Malt?

Malt is a grain that has been soaked in water until it begins to germinate (sprout) and is then dried with hot air, preventing further germination. This process is known as malting, and it's the key to creating the unique ingredient in malted milkshakes, malted milk.

What is Malted Milk?

Designed by James Horlick2 in the 1870s as a nutritional supplement for infants, malted milk, or malted milk powder, is a combination of evaporated whole milk, wheat flour, and malted barley. The malting process extracts sugars within the barley that are later toasted, creating the signature sweet and savory flavor.

How to Make a Malt

While it's hard to find malted milkshakes outside of old-fashioned diners and cafes anymore, you can still make one for yourself right at home. Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 scoops) of ice cream
  • 1⁄2 cup of milk
  • 2 tablespoons of malted milk
  • Mix-ins (optional)
  • Toppings (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine the ice cream, milk, and mix-ins in a blender or milkshake machine and blend for 30 to 60 seconds. The goal is to remove any lumps but still leave the mixture thick.

  2. Add in the malted milk and blend again briefly to mix it in.

  3. Pour the malted milkshake mixture into the glass of your choice and add on your favorite toppings.

That's it! This recipe works for any ice cream you choose, so don't be afraid to change it up. Try vanilla ice cream and add a half teaspoon of vanilla extract or use chocolate ice cream with a few tablespoons of chocolate syrup.

References

  1. Milkshake Fun Facts. Mobile-Cuisine. Accessed December 2020.
  2. That's Meat and Drink to Me: Wisconsin's Malted Milk Story. Wisconsin Historical Society. Accessed December 2020.