Smoothie vs. Milkshake: Know the Difference
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=50)
By Hifza Nasir & Dua Fatima || Published on July 27, 2024
Smoothies are blended beverages with fruits and/or vegetables, often with a health focus, while milkshakes are creamy, dairy-based treats, typically with ice cream and flavors.
![Smoothie vs. Milkshake](/images/smoothie-vs-milkshake-49848.webp)
Key Differences
Smoothies are primarily made from a base of fruits and vegetables, making them a popular choice for those seeking a nutritious drink. Milkshakes, on the other hand, are based on milk and ice cream, emphasizing indulgence and sweetness.
![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=32)
Dua Fatima
Jul 27, 2024
The health aspect of smoothies often includes additions like protein powders, seeds, and nuts, aligning them with fitness and wellness lifestyles. Milkshakes, with their rich dairy content, are more about flavor and texture, often served as a dessert.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Jul 27, 2024
Smoothies can serve as a meal replacement or supplement, offering a convenient way to consume a variety of nutrients. Milkshakes rarely serve this purpose, being more of a treat or snack due to their high sugar and fat content.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Jul 27, 2024
The texture of smoothies can vary from thick and spoonable to drinkable, depending on the ingredients used. Milkshakes are characteristically thick and creamy, with a consistent emphasis on a smooth, rich texture.
![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=32)
Dua Fatima
Jul 27, 2024
Both beverages are customizable, smoothies offer a broader range of health-focused options, including superfoods and greens. Milkshakes focus on indulgent customizations, like chocolate, candy, and cookie mix-ins.
![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=32)
Dua Fatima
Jul 27, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Health Orientation
Often health-focused, with supplements
Indulgent, with a focus on sweetness
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Jul 27, 2024
Customizations
Superfoods, seeds, protein powders
Sweet flavors, candies, cookies
![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=32)
Dua Fatima
Jul 27, 2024
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Smoothie and Milkshake Definitions
Smoothie
A blended beverage made from fruits and/or vegetables, often used as a nutritious meal replacement.
She started her day with a green smoothie for breakfast.
![Shumaila Saeed](/avatar/d6f95d2a86ee08d67b547e1809591769.webp?s=32)
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Milkshake
Known for its rich, indulgent texture and flavor.
The strawberry milkshake was thick enough to need a spoon.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 28, 2024
Smoothie
Can include health supplements like protein powder or superfoods for added benefits.
He added chia seeds to his berry smoothie for extra fiber.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 28, 2024
Milkshake
A creamy, blended beverage made with ice cream and milk, often flavored with syrups or candies.
He ordered a chocolate milkshake with extra whipped cream.
![Shumaila Saeed](/avatar/d6f95d2a86ee08d67b547e1809591769.webp?s=32)
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 28, 2024
Smoothie
Serves as a way to consume a variety of nutrients conveniently.
The tropical smoothie was a delicious way to get her daily fruits.
![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=32)
Dua Fatima
Feb 28, 2024
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Milkshake
Often associated with classic American diners and fast food.
At the diner, she always gets a milkshake with her burger.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 28, 2024
Smoothie
Versatile in ingredients, including dairy or non-dairy bases.
Their vegan smoothie uses almond milk instead of dairy.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 28, 2024
Milkshake
Typically served as a dessert or sweet treat.
They shared a vanilla milkshake after dinner.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 28, 2024
Smoothie
Popular in fitness and wellness circles for its nutritional value.
After her workout, she always drinks a protein smoothie.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 28, 2024
Milkshake
Can be customized with various mix-ins, like cookies or chocolate chips.
The cookie dough milkshake is their bestseller.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 28, 2024
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.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 27, 2024
Smoothie
A thick smooth drink consisting of fresh fruit pureed with ice cream or yoghurt or milk
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 27, 2024
Milkshake
A frothy drink of milk and flavoring and sometimes fruit or ice cream, shaken together or blended in a blender.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 27, 2024
Smoothie
A drink that is made of fruit or sometimes vegetables and is blended with juice, milk, or yogurt and often ice until smooth.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 27, 2024
Milkshake
A thick beverage consisting of milk and ice cream mixed together, often with fruit, chocolate, or other flavoring.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Feb 27, 2024
Milkshake
A beverage consisting of fruit juice, water, and some milk, as served in Southeast Asia.
![Shumaila Saeed](/avatar/d6f95d2a86ee08d67b547e1809591769.webp?s=32)
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 27, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What makes a smoothie healthy?
Smoothies can be healthy if they're made with whole fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-rich ingredients without added sugars.
![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=32)
Dua Fatima
Jul 27, 2024
Can smoothies replace a meal?
When made with the right balance of ingredients, including protein and fiber, smoothies can serve as a meal replacement.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Jul 27, 2024
Can you add vegetables to a milkshake?
While uncommon, some recipes incorporate vegetables, like sweet potatoes or avocados, for a nutritional boost.
![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=32)
Dua Fatima
Jul 27, 2024
Do smoothies always contain dairy?
No, smoothies can be made with water, fruit juice, or dairy alternatives like almond or soy milk.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Jul 27, 2024
How can I make a smoothie more filling?
Adding protein powder, nuts, seeds, or oats can make smoothies more filling and satisfying.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Jul 27, 2024
Can milkshakes be made healthier?
Yes, by using low-fat dairy or dairy alternatives and limiting high-sugar mix-ins, milkshakes can be made healthier.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Jul 27, 2024
Are smoothies or milkshakes better for you?
Generally, smoothies can be healthier due to their potential for nutrient-rich ingredients and lower sugar content.
![Shumaila Saeed](/avatar/d6f95d2a86ee08d67b547e1809591769.webp?s=32)
Shumaila Saeed
Jul 27, 2024
Are milkshakes good for weight gain?
Due to their high calorie and sugar content, milkshakes can contribute to weight gain if consumed frequently.
![Shumaila Saeed](/avatar/d6f95d2a86ee08d67b547e1809591769.webp?s=32)
Shumaila Saeed
Jul 27, 2024
Are there any benefits to drinking milkshakes?
While indulgent, milkshakes can provide calcium and protein, especially if made with nutritious mix-ins.
![Shumaila Saeed](/avatar/d6f95d2a86ee08d67b547e1809591769.webp?s=32)
Shumaila Saeed
Jul 27, 2024
Is ice cream necessary for a milkshake?
Traditional milkshakes include ice cream for creaminess, but there are recipes for lighter versions without it.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Jul 27, 2024
Why do some smoothies use frozen fruits?
Frozen fruits help thicken the smoothie and keep it cold without diluting it with ice.
![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=32)
Dua Fatima
Jul 27, 2024
Can milkshakes be vegan?
Yes, by using dairy-free ice cream and plant-based milk, milkshakes can be made vegan.
![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=32)
Dua Fatima
Jul 27, 2024
What's the best base for a milkshake?
Whole milk and ice cream create the classic creamy texture, but alternatives like low-fat milk or ice cream can be used for a lighter version.
![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=32)
Dua Fatima
Jul 27, 2024
How can I thicken a milkshake without ice cream?
Using frozen bananas or avocado can add creaminess and thickness to a milkshake without ice cream.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Jul 27, 2024
What are some popular smoothie flavors?
Berry, tropical fruit, and green vegetable smoothies are among the most popular flavors.
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=32)
Hifza Nasir
Jul 27, 2024
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About Author
![Hifza Nasir](/avatar/cda3ffe73b9b7dcf343d35a767011239.webp?s=100)
Written by
Hifza Nasir![Dua Fatima](/avatar/98a0968b4cd5e53b5ad41acedcdef1ed.webp?s=100)
Co-written by
Dua Fatima