What is the difference between a smoothie and a milkshake?
A smoothie is built on fruit (or vegetables) blended with a liquid such as yogurt, milk, juice or water; a milkshake is built on ice cream blended with milk. Smoothies are usually lighter and fruit-forward, milkshakes are desserts. The labels overlap, so the ingredients matter more than the name.
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In this article
What is the difference between a smoothie and a milkshake?
The base. A smoothie’s solid part is fruit, vegetables or a protein source, thinned with milk, yogurt, juice or water, often with ice. A milkshake’s thick center is ice cream, loosened with milk and flavored with syrup, fruit or malt. Smoothies tend to be thick from fruit pulp, while shakes are creamy from ice cream fat.
| Smoothie | Milkshake | |
|---|---|---|
| Main ingredient | Fruit, sometimes vegetables | Ice cream |
| Liquid | Milk, yogurt, juice, water, plant milk | Milk |
| Texture | Thick, can be pulpy | Smooth and creamy |
| Usual role | Breakfast, snack or meal replacement | Dessert or treat |
| Typical sweetness and calories | Usually lower, but varies | Usually higher |
Is a shake the same as a milkshake?
In most places, yes: shake is short for milkshake. Protein shakes are a different product, made from protein powder and milk or water, and are not milkshakes. Smoothie is also not the same as juice; it contains the whole fruit blended.
Which is healthier?
It depends on the recipe. A smoothie with fruit and plain yogurt is generally lighter than a milkshake with ice cream and syrup. But a smoothie made with juice, sweetened yogurt, sorbet, syrups and large portions can match a shake in sugar and calories, and a small shake can be less than a huge smoothie. Look at the ingredient list and the serving size. Nutrition varies by cafe and brand, so check the label or menu.
Where do they overlap?
- A smoothie can include a scoop of frozen yogurt or ice cream.
- A milkshake can include fresh fruit.
- Cafes sometimes use the words loosely, so ask what is in it.
Quick guide
- Want something refreshing and fruity: smoothie.
- Want a rich dessert: milkshake.
- Watching sugar: choose unsweetened bases, whole fruit, plain yogurt or milk, and a small size.
This is general information, not dietary advice.
People also ask
Is a smoothie healthier than a milkshake?
Often, but not always. Check the ingredients and portion size, since added sugar and juice can make a smoothie as sweet as a shake.
Can a milkshake have fruit?
Yes. Fruit milkshakes are common; the ice cream base is what makes it a milkshake.
What is a shake?
Usually short for milkshake. A protein shake is a different drink made with protein powder.
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