How to make a milkshake for a large group?
Keep the standard ratio of two parts ice cream to one part milk and make it in batches your blender can handle, rather than one huge batch. Pre-scoop the ice cream, keep everything very cold, and hold finished shakes in a chilled pitcher or the freezer until serving. Measure by cups, not scoops, when scaling.
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In this article
What ratio should you use?
A common guide from a gelato shop owner is two parts ice cream to one part milk. Too much milk makes it watery; too little makes it too thick to drink. Use whole milk for creaminess, and adjust by adding more ice cream if it is thin or more milk if it is thick.
How do you scale it up?
- Measure in cups, not scoops, because scoop sizes vary.
- Fill the blender only about half to two-thirds so the blades can pull the mix down; overfilling warms the mix.
- Blend in batches and do not over-blend, which makes the shake warm and runny.
- Pour each batch into a chilled pitcher kept in the freezer while you make the next one.
- Stir gently before serving.
| Ice cream | Milk | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cups | 1 cup | Standard thick shake base |
| 4 cups | 2 cups | Double batch, same ratio |
| 6 cups | 3 cups | Triple batch; blend in rounds |
The ratio comes from a gelato maker quoted by The Takeout; the batching tips are general kitchen practice. Use the table as a scale example; the number of servings depends on the size of your glasses.
Planning ahead
- Soften the ice cream for a few minutes so it blends easily, but do not let it melt.
- Chill glasses in the freezer.
- Keep the ice cream in a cooler with ice if you are outdoors.
- Pre-measure the milk in a jug.
Make it a milkshake bar
Offer one vanilla base and let people add flavor: chocolate syrup, strawberries, crushed cookies, peanut butter, whipped cream and sprinkles. Mix-ins add flavor without changing the base texture. Label anything with nuts or dairy.
Allergy note: shakes contain dairy, so offer a separate dairy-free option if needed.
People also ask
What is the ratio of ice cream to milk in a milkshake?
About two parts ice cream to one part milk, and adjust to taste.
How do I keep milkshakes from melting at a party?
Make them in batches, store them in a chilled pitcher in the freezer, and serve in chilled glasses.
Can I make milkshakes ahead of time?
Briefly. Hold them in the freezer and stir before serving; they get icy if left too long.
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