Five Guys milkshakes are highly regarded for their rich flavor and customizable mix-ins, making them a popular choice among dessert lovers.
Five Guys milkshakes have developed a cult following since their introduction in 2014. Known for their thick texture, rich flavor, and customizable mix-ins, these shakes stand out in the fast food landscape. But are they truly exceptional or just another sugary treat?
The Five Guys Milkshake Experience
Five Guys takes a unique approach to milkshakes that sets them apart from competitors:
- All shakes start with a premium vanilla base
- Hand-spun with your choice of mix-ins
- Unlimited combinations available for one price
- Made with real ice cream, not soft serve
Texture and Consistency
The texture is where Five Guys milkshakes truly shine. They achieve an ideal thickness – substantial enough to require effort with a straw but still drinkable. Unlike thinner fast food shakes that become watery quickly, Five Guys shakes maintain their creamy consistency throughout.
Base Flavor Profile
The vanilla base is rich but not overly sweet, allowing the mix-ins to take center stage. It’s made with quality ingredients, avoiding the artificial aftertaste found in some chain restaurant shakes.
Popular Mix-In Combinations
With 10 standard mix-in options (plus seasonal specials), the possibilities are nearly endless. Here are some of the most popular combinations:
| Combination | Flavor Profile | Texture Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate + Peanut Butter | Rich, nutty, chocolate-forward | Smooth with occasional peanut chunks |
| Strawberry + Banana | Fruity and refreshing | Slightly chunky from real fruit |
| Bacon + Salted Caramel | Sweet-salty with smoky notes | Crispy bacon bits throughout |
| Oreo Cookie + Chocolate | Decadent cookies-and-cream | Crunchy cookie pieces |
Pro Tip: The “All-the-Way” Shake
Some adventurous fans order every available mix-in at once. While this creates an interesting flavor explosion, it can become overwhelming. For best results, stick to 2-3 complementary flavors.
How Five Guys Shakes Compare
When stacked against competitors, Five Guys milkshakes hold their own:
- Thickness: Thicker than McDonald’s but not as dense as Steak ‘n Shake
- Customization: More options than most chains, similar to specialty shake shops
- Ingredients: Uses real ice cream like Shake Shack, not soft serve
Nutritional Considerations
At approximately 600-800 calories for a regular shake (before mix-ins), these are indulgent treats. The peanut butter and bacon additions significantly increase the calorie count.
Making Five Guys-Style Shakes at Home
Want to recreate the experience? You’ll need:
- Premium vanilla ice cream
- Whole milk
- Quality mix-ins (chunks, not syrups)
- A powerful blender like the Vitamix
For authentic texture, blend just until combined – overmixing creates a thin shake. Add mix-ins last and pulse briefly to maintain texture.
The Verdict
Five Guys milkshakes deliver on their promise of thick, customizable treats. While not revolutionary, they offer better quality and more options than most fast food chains. The ability to create unique flavor combinations makes them worth trying for shake enthusiasts.
As noted in a Business Insider review, while some Five Guys menu items can be hit-or-miss, the milkshakes consistently satisfy. For those looking for a less sweet alternative, consider pairing your shake with a fresh juice from a cold press juicer.
