Fancy ‘shaking’ up your drinks menu? Then, milkshakes might be worth considering. They’re ‘whipping’ up a frenzy on social media at the moment with a plethora of weird and wonderful creations.
Milkshakes originated in the United States at the beginning of the 20th century, and fast became a common part of youth popular culture. However, the limited flavours on offer in the American diners of the 50s have since been dramatically expanded. Prepare to be shaken, not stirred!
Customisation is king
Today’s consumers demand choice, choice, choice, so offering a good variety of flavours and toppings is the best way to keep everyone happy.
Burger chain Five Guys offers 11 options, including peanut butter, Lotus Biscoff, and salted caramel (although the bacon option is not for the faint-hearted!), whilst Shakeaway in Bournemouth claims to be the world’s largest milkshake bar company with over 180 real and fresh ingredients which means “customers can choose to create millions of exciting combinations which is why we say you can live forever and never have the same milkshake twice!”
Kilner jars or classic 50s-style milkshake soda glasses are the receptacle of choice for the discerning milkshake imbiber. Add colourful stripy straws for maximum visual impact.
Freak out
Freakshakes are essentially a milkshake/dessert hybrid; an uber-indulgent, calorie-busting treat.
Essentially, you’re taking a fabulous milkshake then piling it high with an array of decadent toppings, like Jenga for dessert lovers. These gravity-defying treats, made famous by Instagram, can feature anything from cookies and ice cream to slabs of brownie and even whole slices of pie!
Make a meal of it
More is more when it comes to freakshakes. Here are some adornments to inspire your creations…
• Slabs of cake
• Macarons
• Well known chocolate bars
• Ice cream cones
• Churros
• Candy floss
• Donuts
• Fresh fruit
• Sprinkles
• Popping candy
• Fudge cubes
• Marshmallows
• Jelly beans
• Peanuts
• Popcorn
• Pretzels
Hola Horchata!
For a delicious chocolate milk drink, try this Cocoa Horchata, which combines hazelnuts, almonds, oats, nut milk and deZaan Terra Rossa Cocoa.
Healthier alternatives
Whilst milkshakes are packed with protein and calcium, the average freakshake clocks up a whopping 1,200 calories, so you might want to consider offering a few healthier options too.
Using reduced sugar ice cream and fat free yoghurt is a great way to achieve this.
Kale, banana and honey, cucumber, avocado and apple, spinach, coconut and melon – all made with fat free frozen yoghurt – are good combos.
You could also offer protein shakes, allowing customers the option of adding bran, protein, chia seeds, malt, oats or wheatgerm to their shakes.
Don’t forget your vegan options either by adding plant-based milks and ice creams to your customisation menu.
Smooth operators
Smoothies are the perfect partner to your milkshakes offering, and perfect for customers looking for a vitamin hit.
Smoothies are rich in carbohydrates and low in fat, and are packed with fruit and/or vegetables. You can also add chia seeds or flaxseeds for added Omega-3 and spices such as ginger, cinnamon or turmeric to enhance your flavour profiles (and health benefits).
Frozen fruit is less expensive and lasts longer than fresh fruit – plus it negates the need to add ice.
Fruit juice is great for your liquid base, but water works well too. Coconut water is ideal for a hydration hit, and almond or hemp milk offer a creamier mouthfeel.
