A Boston milkshake is a creamy, thick beverage made with ice cream and milk, often blended with flavored syrups or toppings.
A Boston milkshake is a decadent frozen treat that combines a thick milkshake with a scoop of ice cream and toppings. Unlike traditional milkshakes, this indulgent drink often includes hot fudge, whipped cream, and a cherry on top. While its name suggests New England origins, the Boston milkshake has regional variations across the U.S.
What Exactly Is a Boston Milkshake?
The Boston milkshake is essentially two desserts in one cup. It starts with a thick, ice cream-based milkshake, then adds:
- A generous scoop of hard ice cream on top
- Hot fudge or other sauce drizzled over
- Whipped cream and a cherry garnish
This creates a hybrid between a milkshake and sundae that you enjoy with both a straw and spoon. The milkshake base is typically made with hard ice cream rather than soft serve for a richer texture.
Regional Variations
While called a “Boston” shake, this treat has different names and styles across the country:
| Region | Name | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| New England | Frappe or Cabinet | Often includes malt powder |
| West Coast | Boston Shake | Uses soft-serve ice cream |
| Midwest | Meteor Milkshake | Extra large portions |
Why Boston Milkshakes Stand Out
This indulgent drink offers several advantages over regular milkshakes or sundaes:
Temperature Control
The milkshake base actually insulates the ice cream scoop, preventing rapid melting in warm weather. As the ice cream slowly melts, it enhances the shake’s flavor.
Texture Variety
You get the best of both worlds – sippable shake through a straw and spoonable ice cream with toppings. For the perfect blender to achieve this consistency, check out our guide to the best blender for milkshakes.
Customization Options
Endless flavor combinations are possible by mixing different shake bases with various ice cream flavors and toppings. Popular pairings include:
- Chocolate shake with mint chip ice cream
- Vanilla shake with butter pecan ice cream
- Strawberry shake with chocolate ice cream
Where to Find Authentic Boston Milkshakes
While not found everywhere, several notable locations serve excellent versions:
Northeast Specialties
In New England, shops like The Snowman in Troy, NY create classic versions with homemade hard ice cream. As described in Roadfood’s Boston shake feature, Red’s Dairy Freeze in Portland, ME offers a Boston cream pie-inspired version.
National Chains
Some Dairy Queen locations still make Boston shakes upon request, though it’s often an off-menu item. You’ll need to specify exactly what you want, as noted in forum discussions about ordering Boston shakes at DQ.
Making Boston Milkshakes at Home
Creating this treat requires the right equipment and technique:
Essential Equipment
A powerful blender is crucial for achieving the perfect thick consistency. For home use, consider the best blender for ice drinks to handle the frozen ingredients.
Step-by-Step Process
- Blend 2 cups hard ice cream with 1/2 cup milk until thick
- Pour into tall glass, leaving room at the top
- Add scoop of contrasting ice cream flavor
- Drizzle with hot fudge or caramel sauce
- Top with whipped cream and cherry
Pro Tips
- Chill glasses beforehand to prevent melting
- Use slightly softened ice cream for easier blending
- Add malt powder for authentic New England flavor
The History Behind the Name
Despite its name, the Boston connection is somewhat mysterious. In actual Boston, a “milkshake” traditionally refers to just flavored milk without ice cream. The ice cream version is called a “frappe.” The Boston milkshake as we know it today appears to be a regional variation that spread beyond New England.
Some theories suggest the name comes from:
- Boston cream pie flavor inspiration
- Early adoption by Boston-area ice cream shops
- Marketing by New England dairy companies
Whatever its origins, the Boston milkshake remains a beloved regional specialty that offers a uniquely satisfying way to enjoy ice cream in drinkable form with bonus toppings. Its perfect balance of textures and temperatures makes it a standout among frozen desserts.
