Introduction
A milkshake is a sweet, cold beverage made by blending milk, ice cream and flavorings in a mixer or blender. Milkshakes are a popular treat, especially during the summer months. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can easily make delicious milkshakes at home using a mixer.
Benefits of Using a Mixer for Milkshakes
Using a mixer or blender to make milkshakes has several advantages:
- Smooth texture – Mixers and blenders are designed to completely break down and blend ingredients. This results in a perfectly smooth and creamy milkshake without any lumps or chunks of ice cream.
- Thick and frothy – The high-speed blades of a mixer can whip air into the milkshake as it blends, making it light, thick and frothy.
- Customizable – With a mixer, you can easily customize your milkshake by adding different flavors and mix-ins like fruit, candies, cookies or nut butters.
- Quick and easy – Making milkshakes in a mixer is fast and simple. Just add your ingredients and blend until smooth.
- Makes large batches – Mixers and blenders have large pitchers allowing you to make multiple servings or large batches for a crowd.
Choosing a Mixer for Milkshakes
The type of mixer you use can make a difference in your final milkshake texture and quality. Here are some mixer options for making smooth and delicious milkshakes:
| Mixer Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Countertop blender | Making 1-2 servings quickly, ideal for single servings or small batches |
| Stand mixer with milkshake attachment | Making larger batches, allows ingredients to be added while mixing |
| Immersion blender | Mixing directly in a tall blending cup or pitcher, good for small batches |
| Commercial blender or milkshake machine | Making extremely thick, spoon-able milkshakes, great for large batches |
When choosing a mixer, look for one with enough power (at least 300 watts) to thoroughly blend frozen ingredients like ice cream. Models with sturdy, sharp blades will also produce the best texture.
Mixer Speed and Blending Tips
Proper technique when using your mixer will give you the best milkshake results:
- Start on low speed to break up large ingredients then increase to high speed to blend smoothly.
- Blend in short pulses first rather than continuously to prevent overmixing.
- Use a scraper or spatula to frequently scrape down the sides of the mixer to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Don’t overfill mixers or blenders. Leave some room at the top for ingredients to move and blend properly.
- Add liquid ingredients first followed by ice cream and finally mix-ins like cookies or candy so they don’t get overprocessed.
- Let the motor stop completely before removing the lid to prevent spills.
Following these tips and blending on high speed for 1-2 minutes usually results in a perfectly blended milkshake. For very thick “spoonable” shakes blend even longer 3-5 minutes.
Milkshake Ingredients to Use with a Mixer
The basics ingredients for milkshakes made in a mixer include:
- Ice Cream – Use premium ice cream for the best flavor and creamy texture. Go for traditional flavors like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry or get creative with flavors like cookies and cream or cookie dough. Sorbet can also be used for dairy-free shakes.
- Milk – Whole milk or cream will give you the richest shake. For lower fat options use 2%, 1% or skim milk.
- Sweetener – Sugar or simple syrup helps sweeten and thicken the shake. Other options are honey, maple syrup or flavored syrups.
- Flavorings – Personalize your shake with vanilla, cocoa powder, coffee, fruit, candy pieces, cookies and more.
- Ice – Ice helps thicken the shake and gives an extra cold frozen texture.
When layering ingredients in your mixer, first add wet ingredients like milk followed by ice cream and finally dry items and mix-ins.
Recipe Ideas for Milkshakes Made in a Mixer
Here are some delicious milkshake recipes to try making in your mixer:
Classic Vanilla Milkshake
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 Tbsp sugar or simple syrup
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping
Cookies and Cream Milkshake
- 2 cups cookies and cream ice cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup crushed Oreo cookies
- Whipped cream and additional crushed cookies for topping
Mint Chocolate Chip Milkshake
- 2 cups mint chocolate chip ice cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling
Strawberry Cheesecake Milkshake
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup strawberry ice cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- Graham cracker crumbs for topping
Feel free to get creative and customize these milkshakes by using different ice cream flavors, milks, mix-ins and toppings. The options are endless!
Troubleshooting Problems When Making Milkshakes
Here are some common issues and how to fix them when using a mixer to make milkshakes:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Ice cream won’t blend smoothly | Allow ice cream to soften slightly before blending, use smaller chunks, or increase blender speed |
| Milkshake is runny and thin | Use more ice cream compared to milk, add ice cubes, or blend longer |
| Milkshake melts and separates quickly | Add a tablespoon of cornstarch when blending to help stabilize or serve immediately |
| Milkshake is grainy or has ice chunks | Make sure ice cream is softened and blender blades are sharp, blend for longer |
| Milkshake leaks from blender lid | Don’t overfill blender, make sure lid is securely tightened before blending |
Taking the time to get the ratio of ingredients right and master proper mixing technique will result in thick, creamy milkshakes every time.
Storing and Serving Milkshakes Made in a Mixer
Here are some tips for storing and serving your milkshakes:
- Serve milkshakes immediately after blending for the freshest taste and texture.
- If storing, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate up to 4 hours. Stir before serving to re-incorporate separated ingredients.
- For long term storage, freeze milkshakes in a freezer safe airtight container up to 2 months.
- When serving, garnish milkshakes with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, sprinkles, cherries or other favorite toppings.
- Milkshakes made with alcohol should be stored and served as soon as possible before the alcohol separates or evaporates.
- Thicker “spoonable” milkshakes can be eaten with a spoon or straw if desired.
Enjoy your homemade milkshakes within a couple hours for the freshest flavor and texture. Proper storage will keep them tasting great even longer.
Clean Up Tips
Cleaning your mixer after whipping up milkshakes is easy with a few tips:
- Rinse away thick milkshake residue immediately so it doesn’t dry and stick.
- Fill pitcher with warm soapy water to soak stuck-on bits before washing.
- Use a soft sponge or brush to gently scrub the blender blades.
- For tough stains, fill blender with water and a drop of dish soap then blend on high and rinse.
- Take apart blender parts and lids and wash them separately if needed.
- Let all parts air dry fully to prevent mold growth.
Taking a little extra time to clean your mixer thoroughly after each milkshake session will keep it running smoothly for many more.
Conclusion
Using a mixer or blender to whip up creamy, decadent milkshakes at home couldn’t be easier. With the right techniques and ingredients, you’ll have gourmet shakes ready in minutes. Pay attention to properly layering ingredients, blending speeds and ratios for ideal thickness and texture. Get creative with mix-ins and toppings to match any flavor profile. Follow proper storage and cleaning methods to get the most out of your mixer. Now grab a glass and straw and start enjoying homemade milkshakes blended to perfection in your mixer!
