Malt vs Shake: Key Differences Explained

Last Updated on June 20, 2025 by Francis

Milkshakes and malts are iconic American beverages that have a place in our culinary history. While they may appear similar, there are important differences between the two. The main distinction lies in the use of malt powder, which turns a shake into a proper malt. Malted milkshakes, also known as malteds, are thicker, more filling, and have a toastier flavor, thanks to the addition of malt powder.

This powder is made from malted grain, usually a combination of malted barley and wheat extract. Malt powder has a rich nutty flavor that enhances classic profiles like chocolate and vanilla. It adds depth and body to a milkshake, making it more indulgent. Malts were particularly popular in soda shops, offering a sweet yet supposedly healthy drink. Over time, malted milkshakes fell out of fashion as dietary trends changed, but they can still be enjoyed at classic diners or made at home using malt powder.

Key Takeaways:

Malts are thicker and more filling compared to milkshakes.
Malt powder, made from malted grain, adds a toastier flavor to milkshakes.
Malted milkshakes were popular in soda shops but fell out of fashion.
Classic diners still serve malted shakes, and they can be made at home using malt powder.
The use of malted milk powder differentiates malts from regular milkshakes.

What is Malt Powder and How is it Made?

Malt powder is a versatile ingredient derived from malted grain, with the most common variety being a combination of malted barley and wheat extract. It was originally developed by Alfred Horlick, a British-born inventor, as a nutritional supplement to be mixed with milk. In 1882, Horlick introduced a version of malt powder that incorporated dried milk solids, eliminating the need for additional mixing. This invention, known as malted milk powder, gained popularity as a healthy and convenient source of nourishment for both children and adults.

The process of making malt powder involves the malting of grains, which entails sprouting the grains under controlled conditions and then halting the germination process. This results in the conversion of complex starches into more easily digestible sugars and the development of characteristic flavors. The sprouted grains are dried and ground into a fine powder, ready to be used in various culinary applications.

The flavor profile of malt powder can be likened to that of Cheerios, with a slightly sweeter nuttiness. Its earthy and caramel-like notes complement other flavors, making it a popular ingredient in desserts and beverages. When added to milkshakes, malt powder imparts a fuller body and richer taste, elevating the overall indulgence of the drink.

The Creation of Malted Milk Powder

In 1882, Alfred Horlick invented malted milk powder as a nutritional supplement to be mixed with milk. This innovative product combined dried milk solids with malted grain, providing a convenient and nourishing food source. Malted milk powder quickly gained popularity and became widely used in various recipes and drinks.

Today, malt powder continues to be cherished as a flavor enhancer in both commercial and homemade creations. Its versatility and distinct taste have made it a beloved ingredient in desserts, such as cookies, cakes, and ice cream. Additionally, malt powder can be used to add depth and complexity to savory dishes, including marinades and bread recipes.

The Evolution of Malts and Shakes in American Culture

Milkshakes and malts hold a special place in American nostalgia and are deeply rooted in our culinary fabric. These frosty beverages have been enjoyed by generations and continue to evoke a sense of American tradition and nostalgia.

Soda fountains and classic diners have played a significant role in the history of milkshakes and malts. These establishments were a hub of social activity, where people gathered to enjoy a delicious treat and socialize with friends and family. The soda fountain was a popular destination, particularly during the mid-20th century, where people were drawn by the allure of vibrant neon signs and friendly service.

“Soda fountains and classic diners have played a significant role in the history of milkshakes and malts.”

One of the notable pioneers in revolutionizing milkshakes was McDonald’s. Before their iconic burgers and fries took the world by storm, McDonald’s gained fame for their thick and creamy milkshakes. They became synonymous with the American fast-food experience and paved the way for other chains to adopt milkshakes as a staple item on their menus.

Malts, in particular, became a soda shop favorite. These indulgent treats provided a unique combination of richness and supposed health benefits. They were popular amongst people of all ages, aligning with the temperance movement’s preference for alcohol-free options.

As culinary trends changed and dietary habits shifted towards healthier choices, malted milkshakes gradually fell out of fashion. But they still hold a special place in the hearts of many, particularly those who have fond memories of enjoying a malt at a classic diner or soda fountain.

In today’s modern food landscape, traditional malts and milkshakes can still be found at classic diners that have managed to preserve their nostalgic charm. These establishments continue to attract patrons who seek a taste of the past and a comforting reminder of American culinary heritage.

The Difference Between a Malt and a Milkshake

When it comes to malted shakes and milkshakes, there is a distinct difference that sets them apart. The key factor lies in the use of malted milk powder, which gives malted shakes their unique flavor and thick consistency. Let’s delve into the specifics of each:

Malted Shake

A malted shake, also known as a malt, is a delightful beverage that incorporates malted milk powder as a crucial ingredient. Made from a blend of malt barley, wheat flour, and dried whole milk, malted milk powder contributes to its toasty flavor profile with subtle savory notes. This powder adds a distinctive richness and depth to the shake, creating a truly indulgent experience. The combination of malted milk powder, ice cream, milk, and other flavorings results in a thick and satisfying drink. The malted shake truly stands out with its toasty and buttery taste, delivering a nostalgic vibe in each sip.

Milkshake

On the other hand, a classic milkshake does not include malted milk powder. It is typically made with a blend of ice cream, milk, and various flavorings like chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry. With a more straightforward and sweet flavor, milkshakes tend to be smoother in consistency compared to malted shakes. While they lack the distinctive toasty flavor of malted shakes, milkshakes still offer a deliciously cool and refreshing treat.

Ultimately, whether you prefer a malted shake or a classic milkshake depends on your personal taste and cravings. The malted shake’s unique flavor profile, enhanced by the addition of malted milk powder, and the thicker consistency make it a perfect choice for those seeking indulgence and a toasty experience. On the other hand, milkshakes provide a simpler, sweeter flavor and a smoother texture. It’s all about finding the perfect balance that satisfies your palate.

Making a Malt at Home and Creative Uses for Malt Powder

While malted shakes can still be found in some establishments, they can also be easily made at home. By using malt powder, milk, ice cream, and flavorings of choice, anyone can recreate the nostalgic experience of enjoying a homemade malted shake. To make a delightful malted shake, follow these simple steps:

Add 2 scoops of your favorite ice cream to a blender.
Pour in 1 cup of milk.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of malt powder into the blender.
Add any additional flavorings like chocolate syrup, caramel, or fruit extracts.
Blend until smooth and creamy.

Your homemade malted shake is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it in a tall glass with a straw and top it off with whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

But malt powder isn’t just limited to making malted shakes. Renowned chef Ravneet Gill suggests using malt powder as a versatile ingredient to enhance various desserts, offering a flavor enhancement unlike any other. Here are some creative uses for malt powder:

Cream-Based Desserts: Incorporate malt powder into creamy desserts like creme brulee, panna cotta, or custards. The toasty notes of malt powder add a delightful twist to these classic cream-based desserts.
Malt Powder Desserts: Experiment with incorporating malt powder into cakes, cookies, or brownie recipes. The nutty flavor of malt powder can transform ordinary desserts into extraordinary creations.

Explore the endless possibilities of using malt powder in your culinary creations. Let your imagination run wild and discover the unique flavors and textures that malt powder brings to your favorite treats.

“Malt powder is a versatile ingredient that adds a toasty, nutty flavor to desserts, elevating them to a whole new level of deliciousness.” – Chef Ravneet Gill

Malt Powder Dessert Ideas

Dessert	Description
Malted Chocolate Brownies	Fudgy brownies with a hint of malt flavor, topped with a malted chocolate ganache
Malt Swirl Cheesecake	A creamy cheesecake with a malted twist, swirled with chocolate and topped with malted whipped cream
Malted Vanilla Cupcakes	Light and fluffy cupcakes infused with malt powder, topped with malted vanilla frosting
Malt Crunch Ice Cream Pie	An ice cream pie with a malted cookie crust, filled with malted ice cream and topped with chocolate sauce and malted milk balls

Get creative in the kitchen and let malt powder take your desserts to a whole new level of flavor and enjoyment.

Where to Find Milkshakes and Malts Today

If you’re craving a delicious milkshake or a classic malt, you’re in luck! These iconic American treats can be found in various places, catering to different preferences and offering a range of experiences. Whether you’re looking for a quick and convenient option or a nostalgic trip down memory lane, here are some places you can find milkshakes and malts:

Fast-Food Chains

Fast-food chains have become synonymous with milkshakes, making them easily accessible to anyone looking for a sweet and refreshing beverage. From national brands to regional favorites, these establishments offer a wide variety of milkshake flavors to satisfy your cravings. Keep an eye out for seasonal specialties and limited-time offerings that add a unique twist to the classic milkshake experience.

Old-Fashioned Diners

To truly immerse yourself in a nostalgic ambiance and enjoy a taste of vintage Americana, head to an old-fashioned diner. These charming establishments often have retro vibes, complete with checkered floors, vinyl booths, and vintage jukeboxes. Alongside their classic menus, old-fashioned diners typically serve milkshakes and malts, allowing you to savor these traditional treats in an authentic setting.

Soda Fountains

Soda fountains are another wonderful place to indulge in a milkshake or malt. These iconic establishments have been a part of American culture for decades, offering a wide array of fountain drinks and desserts. The soda fountain counter, with its spinning stools and shiny chrome fixtures, has been a gathering place for generations. Here, you can find skilled soda jerks who can craft a milkshake or malt to perfection, blending flavors and creating a memorable experience.

“Soda fountains have a certain nostalgia that cannot be replicated. They are a window into a bygone era and a testament to the enduring appeal of classic American treats like milkshakes and malts.” – Jane Anderson, Food Historian

Although malts may not be as widely available as milkshakes in modern times, visiting an old-fashioned diner or a soda fountain allows you to step back in time and enjoy these beloved beverages just like the generations before us did.

Places to Find Milkshakes and Malts
Fast-food chains
Old-fashioned diners
Soda fountains

The Appeal of the Malted Shake

The appeal of a malted shake lies in its unique flavor profile and enhanced richness. The addition of malted milk powder adds a toasty, nutty taste that complements classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla. This distinctive flavor sets malted shakes apart from regular milkshakes and offers a nostalgic experience for those who grew up enjoying these beverages. The thicker texture of a malted shake, created by the malted milk powder, adds to the indulgence and satisfaction of enjoying this classic treat.

Unique Flavor Profile	Enhanced Richness	Nostalgic Experience	Thicker Texture
The addition of malted milk powder creates a toasty, nutty taste that sets malted shakes apart	The richness of malted shakes is enhanced by the malted milk powder	Malted shakes offer a nostalgic experience for those who grew up enjoying them	The malted milk powder creates a thicker texture, adding to the indulgence of the shake

Malt vs Shake: Which One to Choose?

When it comes to deciding between a malt and a shake, the choice ultimately boils down to personal preference. Both beverages have their own unique qualities and cater to different taste preferences. Let’s take a closer look at the factors that can help you make the right decision.

Flavor Preferences

For those who enjoy a richer, toasty flavor experience, a malted shake is the perfect choice. The addition of malted milk powder adds a unique nutty taste that enhances classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla. On the other hand, if you prefer a simpler, sweeter flavor profile, a classic milkshake would be more suitable. Milkshakes typically feature a straightforward and sweet taste that is a crowd favorite.

Texture Preferences

Texture plays a significant role in the enjoyment of a beverage. If you appreciate a thicker, creamier consistency, a malted shake will satisfy your craving. The malted milk powder creates a velvety texture that adds indulgence to each sip. On the contrary, if you prefer a smoother, more liquid consistency, a classic milkshake is the way to go. Milkshakes tend to have a lighter and more refreshing texture that is perfect for quenching your thirst.

Ultimately, your choice between a malt and a shake should be based on your personal preferences for flavor and texture. Whether you’re in the mood for the rich, toasty goodness of a malted shake or the sweet simplicity of a classic milkshake, both options offer a delightful treat. So go ahead and indulge in the beverage that best suits your taste buds!

	Malted Shake	Milkshake
Taste	Rich and toasty flavor with nutty notes that enhance classic flavors.	Sweet and straightforward taste that is universally enjoyed.
Texture	Thicker and creamier consistency that adds indulgence to each sip.	Smoothe and refreshing texture perfect for quenching your thirst.
Preferred by	Those who enjoy a bolder flavor and a more velvety texture.	Individuals who prefer a sweeter taste and a lighter consistency.

Experimenting with Malt and Shake Variations

Both milkshakes and malted shakes provide a canvas for creativity and experimentation. There is no limit to the flavor combinations and variations that can be explored. With milkshakes, one can try different fruit flavors, add toppings like whipped cream and sprinkles, or even incorporate unique ingredients like cookies or candy. Malted shakes can also be elevated by combining flavors such as malted chocolate, malted strawberry, or even malted coffee. The possibilities are endless, allowing for innovative and delicious combinations that cater to individual preferences and cravings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the key differences between malted shakes and milkshakes lie in the use of malted milk powder. Malted shakes, also known as malts, incorporate this ingredient to add a toasty, nutty flavor and create a thicker texture. On the other hand, milkshakes are loved for their simplicity and sweet taste.

Malted shakes offer a nostalgic experience and enhanced richness, making them a favorite among those seeking a more indulgent treat. In contrast, milkshakes provide a straightforward and sweeter flavor. Both beverages cater to different taste preferences and hold their own unique appeal.

Whether you enjoy the classic atmosphere of diners and soda fountains or prefer to make your own shakes at home, understanding the differences between malted shakes and milkshakes allows you to choose the perfect beverage to satisfy your cravings. So, the next time you’re craving a cool and creamy treat, consider whether you’re in the mood for the toasty richness of a malt or the sweet simplicity of a milkshake. The choice is yours!

FAQ

What are the key differences between malt and shake?

The main distinction lies in the use of malt powder, which turns a shake into a proper malt. Malted milkshakes are thicker, more filling, and have a toastier flavor, thanks to the addition of malt powder.

What is malt powder and how is it made?

Malt powder is made from malted grain, usually a combination of malted barley and wheat extract. It was originally created by Alfred Horlick as a nutritional supplement to be mixed with milk.

How have malts and shakes evolved in American culture?

Malts and shakes are deeply rooted in American nostalgia and culinary fabric. They were popular in classic diners and soda fountains, with malts being a favorite due to their indulgent yet supposedly healthy nature.

What is the difference between a malt and a milkshake?

The key difference lies in the use of malted milk powder. A malt, also known as a malted shake, includes malted milk powder as an essential ingredient, giving it a toasty, nutty flavor and a thicker consistency.

Can I make a malt at home and use malt powder in desserts?

Yes, malted shakes can be made at home using malt powder, and malt powder can also be used to enhance the flavor of cream-based desserts like creme brulee and ice cream.

Where can I find milkshakes and malts today?

Milkshakes can be found at numerous fast-food chains, while malts are more commonly found in old-fashioned diners and soda fountains that uphold the tradition of serving them.

What is the appeal of a malted shake?

The appeal lies in its unique flavor profile and enhanced richness. The addition of malted milk powder adds a toasty, nutty taste that sets malted shakes apart from regular milkshakes.

How do I choose between a malt and a shake?

It ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a richer, toasty flavor and a thicker texture, go for a malted shake. If you prefer a simpler, sweeter flavor and a smoother consistency, a classic milkshake is the way to go.

Can I experiment with different flavors in milkshakes and malts?

Absolutely! Both milkshakes and malted shakes provide a canvas for creativity and experimentation. You can try different fruit flavors, add toppings, or incorporate unique ingredients to create delicious combinations.

What are the key takeaways about the differences between malt and shake?

The key takeaway is that malted shakes are thicker and have a toastier flavor due to the inclusion of malt powder. Milkshakes, on the other hand, have a simpler and sweeter taste. The choice between the two comes down to personal preference.