Difference between a shake and a malt

When it comes to classic American desserts, few are as beloved as the milkshake and malt. These sweet, creamy treats have been a staple of diners and ice cream parlors for generations, and continue to be popular to this day. However, many people are still unsure about the difference between a shake and a malt. While they may seem similar on the surface, there are actually some key distinctions between the two. In this article, we will take a closer look at what sets shakes and malts apart, as well as some of the history behind these iconic desserts.

What is a Milkshake?

Let's start by defining what a milkshake is. At its most basic, a milkshake is a cold, sweet beverage made from milk, ice cream, and flavorings. The exact recipe can vary depending on the individual or establishment making it, but typically involves blending these ingredients together until smooth and frothy. The result is a thick, creamy drink that can be sipped through a straw or eaten with a spoon.

One of the key features of a milkshake is its versatility. While the classic flavor is vanilla, shakes can be made in a wide variety of flavors and styles. Chocolate, strawberry, and caramel are all popular options, as are more adventurous flavors like peanut butter, mint, and even bacon. Shakes can also be customized with various mix-ins, such as candy, fruit, nuts, or cookies.

Another defining characteristic of a milkshake is its texture. A good shake should be thick and creamy, with just the right amount of air whipped into the mixture. This can be achieved by blending the ingredients in a blender or milkshake maker, which creates a frothy, aerated consistency. Some people even argue that the best shakes should be so thick that you can stand a spoon up in them!

What is a Malt?

Now, let's turn our attention to malts. Like shakes, malts are sweet, creamy beverages made from milk, ice cream, and flavorings. However, there are a few key differences that set them apart. For one, malts traditionally contain malted milk powder, which gives them a unique flavor and texture. Malted milk powder is made from malted barley, wheat flour, and powdered milk, and was originally developed as a nutritional supplement in the late 19th century.

The addition of malted milk powder to a shake creates a malt. This ingredient adds a distinctive sweetness and complexity to the flavor profile, as well as a slightly grainy texture. Some people describe the flavor of a malt as being similar to that of a Whopper candy.

Another difference between shakes and malts is their texture. While shakes are typically smooth and frothy, malts are thicker and more substantial. The addition of malted milk powder gives malts a denser, creamier consistency that some people prefer. In fact, some people argue that the true mark of a good malt is its ability to be eaten with a spoon, rather than drunk through a straw.

History of Shakes and Malts

So where did these iconic desserts come from? The history of shakes and malts dates back over 100 years, to the early days of the American soda fountain. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, soda fountains were popular gathering places where people could enjoy cold drinks and snacks. It was at these establishments that the milkshake was born.

The original milkshake was a simple mixture of milk, vanilla syrup, and soda water, served over ice. However, in the early 20th century, ice cream was added to the mix, creating a richer, creamier drink that quickly became popular. By the 1920s, milkshakes had become a mainstay of the American diet, and were served at countless soda fountains, diners, and ice cream parlors across the country.

The first known mention of a malted milkshake dates back to 1922, when a recipe for a "malted milk and chocolate shake" appeared in a cookbook. By the 1930s, malts had become a popular variation on the classic milkshake, thanks in part to the popularity of malted milk powder as a nutritional supplement.

Today, shakes and malts remain popular desserts, with many restaurants and ice cream shops offering a wide variety of flavors and styles. Some establishments even specialize in shakes and malts, offering dozens of different options to choose from.

Key Differences Between Shakes and Malts

Now that we have a better understanding of what shakes and malts are and where they came from, let's take a closer look at some of the key differences between the two:

  1. Malted Milk Powder: As mentioned earlier, one of the biggest differences between shakes and malts is the inclusion of malted milk powder in the latter. This ingredient gives malts a distinct flavor and texture that sets them apart from shakes.

  2. Texture: While both shakes and malts are creamy, sweet beverages, malts tend to be thicker and more substantial. The addition of malted milk powder and/or other mix-ins can create a denser, more satisfying texture.

  3. Method of Consumption: While both shakes and malts can be sipped through a straw, malts are often thick enough to require eating with a spoon. This can make them a more substantial dessert option than a traditional milkshake.

  4. Flavor Options: While shakes can be made in a wide variety of flavors, malts are often associated with classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. That being said, there are plenty of establishments that offer unique and creative malt flavors as well.

  5. Presentation: While this may seem like a small detail, the way shakes and malts are presented can be a distinguishing factor. Shakes are often served in tall glasses with whipped cream and a cherry on top, while malts are typically served in shorter, wider glasses with a spoon.

Conclusion

In the end, the difference between a shake and a malt comes down to a few key factors: the inclusion of malted milk powder, the texture and thickness of the beverage, and the method of consumption. While they may seem similar on the surface, these subtle differences can greatly impact the overall flavor and enjoyment of the dessert.

Whether you prefer a classic shake or a more substantial malt, there's no denying that these sweet treats have earned their place in American culinary history. So the next time you're at a diner or ice cream shop, why not try both and see which one you like best?

It's worth noting that while shakes and malts have a long history in American cuisine, they're not the healthiest dessert options. Both beverages are typically high in sugar, calories, and fat, so they should be enjoyed in moderation.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you could try making your own shakes or malts at home using low-fat or non-dairy milk and natural sweeteners like honey or fruit. You could also experiment with adding healthy mix-ins like fresh fruit, nuts, or protein powder to boost the nutritional content of the beverage.

Overall, the difference between a shake and a malt may seem like a minor distinction, but it speaks to the rich history and cultural significance of these classic desserts. Whether you're a fan of the thick, creamy texture of a malt or the lighter, frothy consistency of a shake, there's no denying that these sweet treats have a special place in the hearts of many Americans.

In conclusion, while a shake and a malt may seem interchangeable, they are actually two distinct desserts that have their own unique characteristics. The inclusion of malted milk powder, texture, method of consumption, flavor options, and presentation all contribute to the differences between the two. Next time you visit a diner or ice cream shop, be sure to try both and see which one you prefer! Just remember to enjoy them in moderation as they are high in sugar, calories, and fat.