The Best Milkshake Makers You Can Buy

There’s just something about liquified ice cream that makes every person across the country say, “Yep, I’ll take one of those with my quarter-pounder.” They really are that good, so wouldn’t you take comfort in knowing you could enjoy them at any time you want with a personal milkshake machine? It’s the perfect tie-in to your grilling nights and a sweet treat to reward the kiddos with. If you’re in the market for a new milkshake machine, because who wouldn’t be, then here are four recommendations for you.

A Purchase as Sweet as Cookies and Cream

Consider these factors when buying a new shake maker:

• Motor Efficiency: Before you get carried away and start planning shake nights for the whole family, it’s best that you consider how well your milkshake maker can make a single icy treat first. The best indication for solid performance would be a motor’s wattage. At-home appliances may not deliver the speed of restaurant-grade tools, but a personal shaker with 50-100 watts will definitely set you up for movie nights.
• Mixing Capacity: Another key factor to your purchase should be considering the mixing capacity of your milkshake maker’s serving cup. If you’re hoping to share with family friends, then it’s pivotal that you buy with that in mind. Save smaller serving cups, and even smaller spindles, for single shake drinkers.
• Retro or New Age Appeal: Lastly, there’s no harm in having a bit of fun with your purchase. Shake makers with a vintage design just sell the excitement you’re craving. Of course, these classics can also come at an upscaled cost. New age models like bullet blenders and frothers may not look the part, but they’re easy on the wallet and still get the job done.

Top Choice: Nostalgia Electric Two-Speed Milkshake Maker

It should come as no surprise that a brand named Nostalgia is offering a top of the line milkshake maker at a welcoming price. Equipped with a 100-watt motor and two speeds for customizable thickness to your drinks, this milkshake maker knows how to do more than offer a fun throwback look for your countertop. This unit is dependably sturdy, from its 16-ounce stainless steel mixing cup to its weighted base. Operation is as simple as tilting the head back, tossing in some cream, and letting it spin. The detachable spindle makes for an easy-to-clean operation.

Best Budget: Zulay Original Milk Frother

Believe it or not, you can make a milkshake by way of an electric frother. There are plenty of options out there, but this frother from Zulay is a mighty little tool that doesn’t cost more than mere pocket change. Powered by two AA batteries and backed by a guarantee to not rust or break, ever, this milk frother is far more capable than just mixing varying kinds of milk. If you’re willing to put in the elbow grease for your icy treat then serving one up is as simple as adding a few scoops of softened ice cream to your tall cup, pouring in some milk, tossing in your mix-ins, and giving it a whirl. Given its size, cleanup is a convenience that takes no more effort than placing the whisk under hot running water before it’s clean.

Best Premium: Hamilton Beach 730C DrinkMaster

For those only interested in the best while giving way to no expense, this Hamilton Beach DrinkMaster is another powerful option that looks like it was stolen right off the counter of a 1950s diner. With two speeds and maximum motor output of 70 wattages, this unit can handle milkshakes, malts, and even fountain drinks with ease. Its 28-ounce stainless steel mixing cup offers you plenty of cup space to make treats for everyone in your kitchen. Like with similar models, cleanup takes minimal effort; remove the spindle and wash by hand, or place it in the dishwasher

Also Great: Cincred Personal Countertop Blender

In regard to other unorthodox means of making milkshakes without breaking the bank, consider a blender. This Cincred Personal Countertop Blender is a worthwhile alternative that may not have the look of a vintage milkshake maker, but it sure knows how to make them. Its stainless steel blades and powerful motor are intended to make mincemeat out of anything you place in its double-duty, Tritan cup. With ingredients as soft as ice cream and thin as milk, a few pulses are all you’ll need before your thickened concoction is complete.