What is a vegan milkshake?
A vegan milkshake is a milkshake made without dairy: non-dairy ice cream blended with a plant milk such as soy, almond, oat or coconut. It works like a regular shake, so thickness comes from the ice cream-to-milk ratio. Check labels on ice cream and toppings, since some add animal-derived ingredients.
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In this article
What is a vegan milkshake?
It is a milkshake with no milk, cream, ice cream or whey. Instead of dairy, you blend non-dairy ice cream (soy, oat, cashew, coconut or almond based) with a plant milk. Flavors such as chocolate, vanilla and strawberry work the same as in a classic shake.
How to make one
- Let the non-dairy ice cream soften on the counter for a few minutes until it gives slightly when squeezed.
- Add it to the blender with the plant milk.
- Blend on low to combine, then on high for under a minute; longer blending makes it runny.
- Add flavor: chocolate syrup, fruit or vanilla, reducing the milk slightly so the total liquid stays the same.
Ratios people use
The Takeout reports these ice cream-to-milk ratios from chefs and cooks for a thick shake. They vary by person and brand:
| Ice cream | Milk | Result |
|---|---|---|
| About 10 oz | About 4 oz | Thick |
| About 16 oz | About 2 oz | Very thick |
| About 6 parts | 1 part | Very thick |
Choosing the plant milk
- Soy ice cream tested with soy milk and with almond milk was neutral and creamy.
- Almond milk’s flavor barely came through next to soy ice cream.
- Coconut milk adds a pina colada flavor to plain shakes, which not everyone wants.
- Cashew ice cream with cashew milk gave the richest, most milkshake-like texture in that test.
Check the label
Not every topping is vegan: check sprinkles, syrups and whipped toppings for honey, whey, casein or animal-derived colorings. Allergy-wise, nut-based ice creams and milks are not safe for tree nut allergy.
General information; recipes and products vary.
People also ask
Is a vegan milkshake healthier?
Not necessarily. Sugar and calories depend on the ice cream and add-ins; check the label.
How do I make a vegan shake thicker?
Use more non-dairy ice cream and less plant milk, and blend briefly.
What plant milk is best for milkshakes?
In one test, soy ice cream with soy or almond milk was neutral and creamy, and cashew ice cream with cashew milk was richest. Use what you like.
Sources
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