Smoothie vs. Milkshake — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 31, 2023
A smoothie is a blended drink consisting of fruits and vegetables, often combined with yogurt or juice, while a milkshake is a creamy drink made from milk and ice cream, flavored with ingredients like chocolate or fruit.
Difference Between Smoothie and Milkshake
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Smoothies are blended beverages primarily consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables, and often liquid bases like yogurt, milk, or juice. They are known for their health benefits and are often consumed as meal replacements or supplements.
Milkshakes, on the other hand, are creamy drinks made with milk and ice cream as the base, often flavored with syrup, chocolate, or fruits. They are typically rich in taste and are considered indulgent treats rather than health foods.
In terms of texture, smoothies are generally thicker due to the fibrous content from fruits and vegetables. They are often regarded as a nutritious option and can include a variety of supplements like protein powder or seeds.
Milkshakes are characterized by their creamy and smooth consistency. The primary ingredients, milk and ice cream, give it a rich and velvety texture. Milkshakes are often associated with fast food and diners.
Smoothies cater to a health-conscious audience and can be customized to include a variety of superfoods, vitamins, and minerals. They are versatile and can be tailored to dietary preferences, including vegan or low-sugar options.
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In contrast, milkshakes are classic treats and are less focused on health aspects. They are more about indulgence and are often served as desserts or snacks, with fewer variations in terms of health modifications.
Comparison Chart
Base Ingredients
Fruits, Vegetables, Yogurt or Juice
Milk, Ice Cream
Purpose
Health, Nutrition, Meal Replacement
Treat, Indulgence
Texture
Thick, Fibrous
Creamy, Smooth
Variations
Health-focused, Dietary Options
Classic Flavors, Limited Dietary Options
Common Additions
Protein Powder, Seeds, Nuts
Syrups, Flavorings, Whipped Cream
Compare with Definitions
Smoothie
Fruit Blend
I made a banana-strawberry smoothie for breakfast.
Milkshake
Creamy Treat
I ordered a chocolate milkshake with my burger.
Smoothie
Nutrient-rich
This green smoothie is packed with vitamins.
Milkshake
Rich Indulgence
I love a thick, rich strawberry milkshake.
Smoothie
Meal Substitute
I'm having a protein smoothie instead of lunch.
Milkshake
Dessert Drink
We had vanilla milkshakes for dessert.
Smoothie
Vegan Option
I prefer almond milk in my vegan smoothie.
Milkshake
Fast Food Classic
A cheeseburger and milkshake is a classic combo.
Smoothie
Detox Beverage
She drinks a detox smoothie every morning.
Milkshake
A milkshake (sometimes simply called a shake) is a sweet drink made by blending milk, ice cream, and flavorings or sweeteners such as butterscotch, caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, fruit syrup, or whole fruit into a thick, sweet, cold mixture. It may also be made using a base made from non-dairy products, including plant milks such as almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk.
Smoothie
A smoothie or smoothy is a drink made from pureed raw fruit and/or vegetables, using a blender. A smoothie often has a liquid base such as fruit juice, dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, ice cream or cottage cheese.
Milkshake
A cold drink made of milk, a sweet flavouring such as fruit or chocolate, and typically ice cream, whisked until it is frothy.
Smoothie
A man with a smooth, suave manner
I love to see him gliding his way round a dance floor, he is such a smoothie!
Milkshake
A beverage that is made of milk, ice cream, and often flavoring and is blended or whipped until foamy. Also called shake; also called regionally cabinet, frappe, velvet.
Smoothie
A thick, smooth drink of fresh fruit pureed with milk, yogurt, or ice cream.
Milkshake
New England A beverage made of milk and flavored syrup, whipped until foamy.
Smoothie
(Informal) A person regarded as being assured and artfully ingratiating in manner.
Milkshake
A thick beverage consisting of milk and ice cream mixed together, often with fruit, chocolate, or other flavoring.
Smoothie
A drink that is made of fruit or sometimes vegetables and is blended with juice, milk, or yogurt and often ice until smooth.
Milkshake
A thin beverage, similar to the above, but with no ice cream or significantly less of it.
Smoothie
A smooth-talking person.
Milkshake
A beverage consisting of fruit juice, water, and some milk, as served in Southeast Asia.
Smoothie
A drink made from whole fruit, thus thicker than fruit juice.
Milkshake
Accidental emulsion of oil and water in an engine.
This milkshake under the oil cap, or on the dipstick, indicates a blown head gasket.
Smoothie
(figurative) A blending of different things, a mishmash
Milkshake
An alkaline supplement administered to a horse to improve its racing performance.
Smoothie
A member of the mod subculture who is relatively non-violent and wears expensive clothing.
Milkshake
To administer an alkaline supplement to (a horse) to improve its racing performance.
Smoothie
Someone with an assured and ingratiating manner
Milkshake
To throw a milkshake at (a person).
A politician was milkshaked during the protest.
Smoothie
A thick smooth drink consisting of fresh fruit pureed with ice cream or yoghurt or milk
Milkshake
A frothy drink of milk and flavoring and sometimes fruit or ice cream, shaken together or blended in a blender.
Milkshake
Frothy drink of milk and flavoring and sometimes fruit or ice cream
Milkshake
Diner Staple
This diner is famous for its old-fashioned milkshakes.
Common Curiosities
Can milkshakes be made without ice cream?
Traditionally, no. Ice cream is a key ingredient for milkshakes.
Is a smoothie always healthy?
Generally, yes, but it depends on the ingredients used.
Can smoothies replace a meal?
Yes, especially if they include protein and fiber.
Do smoothies always contain dairy?
No, many smoothies are made with non-dairy alternatives.
Are smoothies good post-workout?
Yes, especially with added protein.
Is a milkshake a good snack for kids?
In moderation, it can be a fun treat for kids.
Can you put vegetables in smoothies?
Absolutely, vegetables like spinach and kale are popular in smoothies.
Are smoothies suitable for weight loss?
Yes, if made with low-calorie, nutritious ingredients.
Can you add alcohol to milkshakes?
Yes, adult versions of milkshakes often include alcohol.
Are milkshakes good for health?
They can be high in calories and sugar, so moderation is key.
Are smoothies good for digestion?
Yes, they can be, thanks to the fiber from fruits and veggies.
Is it easy to make smoothies at home?
Yes, with a blender and some basic ingredients.
Can milkshakes be vegan?
Yes, with plant-based milk and ice cream alternatives.
Can you freeze milkshakes for later?
Yes, but they may lose some of their creamy texture.
Can milkshakes contain fruits?
Yes, fruits like bananas and strawberries are common.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
