What Is The Difference Between Milkshakes And Malts

Milkshakes and Malts have been beloved treats for generations, showing up at diners, ice cream parlors, and ice cream trucks everywhere. Understanding the difference between these two favorites can help you make better choices when ordering or making them at home. Whether you're a casual snack seeker or a food enthusiast, knowing what sets them apart adds a fun layer of knowledge to your next dessert run.

The biggest distinction lies in one key ingredient: malts contain malted milk powder, while plain milkshakes don't. Malted milk powder is a blend of malted barley, wheat flour, and evaporated milk, originally created in 1887 for health purposes. When mixed into a shake, it introduces a distinctive nutty, toasted flavor that plain milkshakes simply can't replicate. So the core difference is really about that one special addition that changes the whole taste profile.

Because of the malted milk powder, Malts tend to be slightly thicker and heartier than regular milkshakes. The powder also gives them a subtle warmth in flavor, almost like a hint of toffee or cereal. Milkshakes, on the other hand, are lighter, creamier, and more straightforward in taste, letting the pure flavor of the ice cream and mix-ins shine through. People who prefer a classic, smooth sip often lean toward milkshakes, while those craving something more complex go for Malts.

You'll most often find Malts in vintage-style diners and old-school ice cream shops, where the recipe hasn't changed since the 1940s and '50s. Milkshakes, meanwhile, are far more common in fast-food chains and modern dessert bars, appearing in nearly endless flavor combinations like chocolate, strawberry, cookies-and-cream, and even vegan options. At a family outing, parents might order a classic Malt while the kids go wild over a loaded milkshake topped with whipped cream and sprinkles.

Malt vs. Milkshake: What’s the Difference?

Want to try making either at home? Start with good-quality ice cream and cold whole milk. For a Malt, add one to two tablespoons of malted milk powder per serving and blend until smooth. For a simple milkshake, just ice cream and milk will do the trick. Adjust thickness to your liking by adding more or less liquid, and don't be afraid to experiment with mix-ins like bananas, peanut butter, or crushed cookies.

So next time you're faced with the choice, you'll know exactly what you're ordering. Both Malts and milkshakes carry a timeless charm, but that little touch of malted powder makes all the difference. Whether you're treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, there's always room for one more delicious scoop of knowledge — and dessert.