The Difference Between a Shake and a Malt

If you’ve ever wondered about the subtle yet significant differences between malts and milkshakes, you’re not alone. Stepping into a classic diner, you may notice both on the menu, but what sets them apart? In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins, ingredients, and distinctive features of these timeless American dessert drinks.

The Origins:

Both malts and milkshakes share a rich history as classic American dishes. Originally, milkshakes, emerging in the early 1800s, contained whiskey for flavor, resembling today’s eggnog. By the 1900s, whiskey was replaced with syrup, making the drink suitable for all ages.

The real game-changer came in 1922 when Steven Poplawski invented the blender, revolutionizing the way milkshakes were made. Ivar “Pop” Coulson, a Walgreens employee, seized this opportunity to create the first malted milkshake by adding ice cream to a malted milk drink, sparking the craze that spread to diners across America.

What is Malted Milk Powder?

Malted milk powder, a key ingredient in malts, consists of barley, dried evaporated milk, and wheat flour. Initially marketed by William Horlick as a “super-food” with a long shelf life, malted milk became a versatile product used for various purposes, including treating digestive issues, serving as rations in emergencies, and even on military expeditions.

Malted Milk Powder in Other Dishes:

Beyond milkshakes and malts, malted milk powder plays a versatile role in culinary creations. It’s the main ingredient in popular candies like Whoppers, and it can be used in baking cakes, puddings, fudge, and toffee. Additionally, malted milk powder can add a sweet touch to bread, enhancing the flavor of wheat bread.

Malt vs. Milkshake:

While malts and milkshakes may seem similar, there are subtle differences. Malts are not only thicker but also sweeter than milkshakes, thanks to the savory malt powder. However, this grain-based additive makes malts less healthy, with a higher calorie count and a slightly higher price tag compared to milkshakes.

Malted Milkshake Recipe:

Now that you’ve delved into the history and nuances, here’s a classic malt recipe for you to enjoy:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 1 cup slow-churned or reduced-fat ice cream
• 4 tablespoons malted milk powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps:

1. Collect your ingredients.
2. Combine ingredients in your blender.
3. Blend for 10 to 20 seconds until creamy.
4. Transfer to a tall glass.
5. Insert a straw and savor the deliciousness!

Conclusion:

Whether you’re a malt enthusiast or a milkshake lover, understanding the unique characteristics and origins of these classic drinks adds a delightful flavor to your experience. So, next time you find yourself at a diner, you’ll have a newfound appreciation for the distinct charm of malts and milkshakes. Cheers to indulging in this sweet journey through history!