How to Make a Milkshake

Let’s go retro with this classic soda fountain-style milkshake!

Is it possible to miss a place you’ve never actually been to? I’ve always been called an old soul trapped in a young body, but I can’t help but feel a wistful longing for a place that I’ve never visited—because they were long gone before I even existed! What we now call a soda fountain used to refer to a full-service, bar-style counter where delicious drinks and treats were served, from classic colas to ice cream. Soda jerks (the name sounds harsh, but it actually derives from the jerking motion used to pull the arm of the soda machine) would service your sweet tooth in diners and drugstores during the 1950s heyday of soda fountains, and, frankly, I want to experience that kind of luxury!

The soda fountain, now, refers almost exclusively to a self-service machine that mixes the formulas of various flavors with carbonated water to achieve the same result; but I’m oddly nostalgic for the days when sodas were mixed by hand and, in the same sitting, you could order a float with a dollop of ice cream. That’s why today’s recipe sates my very soul.

Straight out of the 50s, I have a classic milkshake formula that’ll take you back in time. Sweet and creamy (and with toppings that are so dreamy!), you can’t get much simpler than a classic vanilla milkshake with colorful rainbow sprinkles and a maraschino cherry on top. Or perhaps you’ll decorate your classic vanilla milkshake with a crumble of dark chocolate sandwich cookies, or even some fantastic fruits. Take a trip to a simpler time with me and enjoy a sip of nostalgia!

Is This Milkshake Recipe Healthy?

There are only two ingredients in this classic milkshake recipe: whole milk and vanilla ice cream. While the dairy component adds some protein, calcium, and phosphorous to the shake, that’s about where the “health benefits” end. Whole milk is high in saturated fat, and vanilla ice cream is high in sugar. Now, that said, milkshakes are meant to be an indulgence! This isn’t the time for counting calories. Enjoy your milkshakes in moderation as a delicious occasional treat.

Slang For Soda Slingers

Did you know that soda jerks were known for having a lingo all their own? If you want to really get into the spirit of a classic soda fountain atmosphere, there are a few terms you can start sprinkling in while you whip up your old-time treats. Sadly, this slang is no longer a part of our lexicon, but try to bring back some of these classics!

“Shoot it in the red”: To put a splash of cherry into your cola

“Hold the hail”: To order a drink without ice

“City cocktail”: A glass of water

“Burn it and let it swim!”: To order a float with a scoop of ice cream

“Baby”: A glass of plain cow’s milk

“In the hay”: A strawberry milkshake

Serving Suggestions

A classic milkshake pairs alongside other classic diner foods perfectly (which is probably why they’re served at nearly every diner in the country!).

Order up a soda fountain-style milkshake with a plate of Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders and a side of McDonald’s Copycat Fries. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a Spicy Jalapeño Popper Burger with a classic milkshake as your cool, sweet savior from the heat! Pretty soon, you’ll imagine yourself sitting at a vinyl booth with a checkerboard floor and chrome-lined walls.

Recipe