Milkshakes, a quintessential American treat, have come a long way since their inception in the late 1800s. Originally an alcoholic concoction of eggs, milk, and whiskey, milkshakes evolved into the sweet, creamy delights we know today. By the early 1900s, soda fountains replaced whiskey with syrups and malt powder, and the 1920s saw the introduction of ice cream as the base, thanks to the electric blender. While many fast-food chains now rely on soft-serve or pre-made mixes, a handful remain committed to crafting milkshakes the traditional way—with real ice cream. Here are 10 chains that do it right.
1. Shake Shack Shake
Shake Shack is renowned for its high-quality offerings, and its milkshakes are no exception. Made with in-house frozen custard—a creamier version of ice cream containing at least 1.4% egg yolks—the shakes are crafted daily using real cane sugar and cage-free eggs. Flavors range from classic vanilla and chocolate to unique options like tiramisu and dreamsicle.
2. Sonic Milkshake
While Sonic Drive-In is famous for its Cherry Limeade, its milkshakes deserve equal attention. Thick, creamy, and made with real ice cream, Sonic’s shakes come in a variety of bold flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
3. In-N-Out Burger Shake
A West Coast icon, In-N-Out Burger keeps it simple with its milkshakes. Made with real ice cream, the shakes are thick yet smooth, available in classic chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors. For the adventurous, the Neapolitan—a blend of all three—is a must-try.
4. Culver’s Shake
Culver’s is celebrated for its ButterBurgers and cheese curds, but its Frozen Custard shakes are the real star. Made with pasteurized egg yolks, the custard has a velvety richness that elevates the shakes to a whole new level.
5. Freddy’s Frozen Custard Shake
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers uses freshly churned custard as the base for its milkshakes. The result is a thick, creamy treat available in vanilla, chocolate, or a mix of both, with the option to add malt for a nostalgic twist.
6. Steak ‘n Shake Milkshake
With “shake” in its name, Steak ‘n Shake has a reputation to uphold. Their milkshakes, made with real ice cream and fresh milk, are hand-blended to order. Classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla are joined by creative options such as birthday cake and cotton candy.
7. Potbelly Shakes
Known for its toasted sandwiches, Potbelly also excels in the milkshake department. Made with hand-scooped real ice cream, the shakes are thick and creamy, with classic flavors and fun add-ins like Oreo. Each shake comes with a signature shortbread cookie on the straw.
8. Johnny Rockets Milkshake
Johnny Rockets embraces retro charm, and its milkshakes are a testament to that. Hand-dipped real ice cream is blended to order in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, as well as creative options like peanut butter and seasonal specials.
9. Arby’s Shake
Arby’s pairs its roast sandwiches with milkshakes made from real ice cream. The Jamocha shake, a blend of coffee and chocolate, is a fan favorite, offering a unique twist on the classic treat.
10. Bruster’s Shake
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream lives up to its name, using freshly made ice cream for its milkshakes. With a rotating menu of over 150 flavors, Bruster’s ensures there’s always something new to try.
These 10 chains prove that when it comes to milkshakes, real ice cream makes all the difference. Whether you’re craving a classic flavor or something more adventurous, these shakes are worth the indulgence.
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