Craving a sweet treat that won't break the calorie bank? Look no further than a homemade or fountain-type milk shake! At just 128 calories per 100 ml, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.

But not all milk shakes are created equal. Many store-bought options are loaded with sugar and unhealthy additives, while homemade versions can be too thick or too sweet. That's why we're sharing our top tips and flavor ideas for creating a delicious, healthy milk shake at home.

Whether you prefer classic flavors or creative combinations, we've got you covered. Let's get blending!

Blending Tips for Delicious Milk Shakes

Use a high-speed blender to ensure a smooth, creamy texture. Start with a small amount of liquid and add more as needed to achieve your desired thickness. Experiment with different ratios of ice cream, milk, and fruit to find your perfect balance of flavors.

10 Healthy Flavors for Your Milk Shake

Vanilla bean: Use pure vanilla extract and a touch of honey for a classic, fragrant flavor. Strawberry banana: Blend together frozen strawberries, banana, and low-fat yogurt for a fruity, refreshing drink. Peanut butter banana: Combine natural peanut butter, banana, and milk for a protein-packed shake that tastes like a PB&J sandwich.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Milk Shakes

Homemade milk shakes give you full control over the ingredients, allowing you to make healthier choices and personalize the flavor to your liking. Store-bought milk shakes are convenient and come in a variety of flavors, but they often contain high amounts of sugar, dyes, and preservatives. To enjoy the best of both worlds, try making a healthier version of your favorite store-bought milk shake at home.

How to Customize Your Milk Shake

Add a shot of espresso for a caffeinated twist. Top with whipped cream and sprinkles for a festive treat. Blend in your favorite candy, like Reese's Pieces or Snickers bars, for a decadent dessert.

Great Toppings for Your Milk Shake

Fresh fruit slices or berries. Crushed graham crackers, Oreo cookies, or pretzels. Chopped nuts, like toasted almonds or hazelnuts.

Fountain-Type Milk Shakes vs. Homemade Milk Shakes

Fountain-type milk shakes are typically lighter and airier, thanks to the use of a milk shake machine that incorporates air into the mixture. Homemade milk shakes are usually thicker and creamier, since they're made in a blender. Both types of milk shakes have their benefits, so it's a matter of personal preference.

Classic Milk Shake Recipes to Try at Home

Chocolate: Blend together chocolate ice cream, milk, and chocolate syrup for a rich, chocolatey treat. Vanilla: Use high-quality vanilla ice cream and milk, and top with a maraschino cherry for a classic milk shake. Strawberry: Blend together vanilla ice cream, frozen strawberries, and milk for a fruity twist.

Vegan Milk Shake Options You Will Love

Banana berry: Blend together frozen banana, mixed berries, and almond milk for a naturally sweet and creamy shake. Mint chocolate chip: Use coconut milk ice cream and fresh mint leaves, and mix in dark chocolate chips for a refreshing and indulgent shake. Pineapple coconut: Combine frozen pineapple chunks, coconut milk, and a touch of honey for a tropical-inspired shake.

Making Dairy-Free Milk Shakes at Home

Start with a dairy-free ice cream or frozen yogurt, made from coconut milk or almond milk. Replace regular cow's milk with a plant-based milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Add frozen fruit or a dairy-free protein powder for extra creaminess and flavor.

Refreshing Milk Shake Recipes for Hot Summer Days

Peach melba: Blend together fresh or frozen peaches, raspberry sorbet, and low-fat milk for a fruity and light shake. Piña colada: Combine frozen pineapple chunks, coconut milk, and rum extract for a tropical drink that tastes like vacation. Watermelon mint: Use frozen watermelon cubes, fresh mint leaves, and coconut water for a hydrating and refreshing shake.