If you don’t have any of those things, use a large bowl and a whisk to beat the ice cream and milk together. [4] X Research source As you begin the recipe, take the glass you plan to use for your milkshake and put it in the freezer. Then it will be nice and chilled when you’re ready to serve. [5] X Research source

Never add ice to a milkshake. It will water down your shake and dilute the flavor and creaminess. [7] X Research source

No matter which mixing method you use (whisk, stick blender, professional milkshake blender), you want to make sure your shake remains thick. If you insert a spoon and try to pull it out, the thick shake should give a little resistance. If you like a lumpy milkshake, only mix your shake for 30-45 seconds. If your shake seems too thick, add a splash of milk. [8] X Research source If your shake seems too watered down, add another scoop or half-scoop of ice cream and mix. [9] X Research source

Top your milkshake with a healthy squirt of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. Or garnish with a little extra of your chosen ingredients (like a fresh strawberry for your strawberry shake). Serve with a spoon and a straw.

Look for a high-density ice cream. Choose two brands of ice cream that are the same size (a pint, a quart, etc. ) and hold one in each hand. The one that feels heavier will make the better milkshake. Ice creams that are lighter and fluffier contain more air. When you mix the milkshake you’ll be introducing even more air, and won’t get the thick, creamy consistency you want in a milkshake. Go for the dense ice cream over the extra-churned ice cream so you’ll start out with less air. You can of course use any ice cream flavor you want, so stray from the vanilla base if you want to experiment. If you want a mint chocolate chip milkshake but don’t want to mess with mint extract and chocolate chips, go ahead and use a mint chip ice cream.

If you can, look for a high-quality, locally produced milk. The better quality ingredients you put into your milkshake, the better the milkshake. If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer to eat plant-based products, there are a wide variety of nut milks on the market to choose from, including soy, oat, almond, coconut, cashew, rice, hemp, and more. Each has a somewhat different flavor and consistency.

Look for malt powder, not instant malted milk or liquid malt flavoring. Malt powder provides the most authentic taste.

Look for a chocolate sauce with a high cocoa unit for the best flavor.