Understanding the Calorie Count of a Milky Way Milkshake
The caloric content of a Milky Way milkshake is not a fixed number. It is highly dependent on several factors, including whether it's a store-bought, commercially-prepared product, or a homemade creation. The sheer size of the shake and the ingredients used—especially the type of ice cream and milk—can cause the final calorie count to fluctuate dramatically. A small, ready-to-drink Milky Way shake from a grocery store might contain as little as 200 calories, whereas a large, fast-food version can easily exceed 700 calories, sometimes even reaching into the thousands with extra toppings.
Commercial vs. Homemade Milky Way Milkshakes
Pre-packaged Drinks
- Mars Milky Way Chocolate Milkshake (250ml): A typical 250ml drink contains approximately 140 calories, 4.5g of fat, and 16g of sugar. This is a relatively low-calorie option, but it lacks the thick, creamy texture of a classic milkshake.
- Milky Way Thick Shake (400ml): A larger, thicker version can contain up to 256 calories.
Fast-Food Shakes
Many restaurants offer shakes inspired by candy bars, but they are not always branded. For example, McDonald's has offered a limited-time Milky Way McFlurry, which contains about 350 calories for a regular size. A thick, fast-food shake using ingredients equivalent to a Milky Way could easily contain between 500-700 calories, or even more, depending on the portion size and additions.
Homemade Creations
This is where the calorie count can skyrocket. A simple recipe with two scoops of premium ice cream, whole milk, and one or two Milky Way bars can easily exceed 600 calories per serving. The inclusion of high-fat ingredients and extra sweets quickly inflates the total.
A Closer Look at the Ingredients
To understand the full caloric impact, it’s important to break down the ingredients.
- Ice Cream: Using a rich, premium ice cream with a higher butterfat content will significantly increase the calories. One scoop can range from 150 to 300 calories, depending on the brand and flavor. Opting for a low-fat or fat-free frozen yogurt can drastically reduce this number.
- Milk: Whole milk adds about 150 calories per cup, while skim milk has just over 80. The choice of milk can make a significant difference in the final calorie count.
- Milky Way Bar: A standard single Milky Way bar (1.84 oz) contains approximately 240 calories, primarily from sugar and fat. A milkshake may use one or more bars.
- Additional Toppings: Whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and extra candy pieces are common additions that add substantial calories, sugar, and fat. For instance, a generous swirl of whipped cream can add 50-100 calories or more.
Comparison of Calorie Counts: Milky Way vs. Other Milkshakes
To put the Milky Way milkshake's calorie count into perspective, here is a comparison table using various examples.
| Shake Type (Medium/Regular Size) | Estimated Calories | Key Calorie Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Homemade Milky Way Milkshake | 600-800+ | Premium ice cream, whole milk, multiple Milky Way bars |
| Fast-Food Style Milky Way Shake | 500-700 | Large portion size, full-fat dairy, syrups, whipped cream |
| McDonald's Chocolate Shake | 650 (medium) | Ice cream base, sugar syrup |
| Shake Shack Black & White Shake | ~770 (regular) | Ice cream, fudge sauce |
| Healthier Homemade Shake | 200-300 | Non-fat Greek yogurt, skim milk, unsweetened cocoa, banana |
How to Reduce the Calorie Count
For those who love the flavor but want a healthier option, several strategies can help.
- Use Lighter Dairy: Swap whole milk for skim milk or a low-calorie milk alternative like unsweetened almond milk. Instead of regular ice cream, use fat-free frozen yogurt or a low-fat ice cream alternative.
- Add Healthy Thickeners: Use frozen bananas to create a thick, creamy texture without adding extra sugar or fat. Greek yogurt is another excellent way to add creaminess and protein.
- Rethink the Toppings: Ditch the canned whipped cream and high-sugar chocolate syrup. A light sprinkle of cocoa powder can offer chocolate flavor with minimal calories.
- Control Portion Sizes: Serve the shake in a smaller glass to control your intake naturally. Remember, weight management often comes down to moderation.
Conclusion
A Milky Way milkshake is a delicious but high-calorie treat, with homemade versions and large fast-food servings often containing well over 600 calories. The exact amount depends heavily on the ingredients and portion size. By making thoughtful substitutions, such as using low-fat dairy, healthy thickeners like frozen banana or Greek yogurt, and controlling portion sizes, you can enjoy a similar flavor experience with a significantly lower caloric impact. For a healthier alternative, consider a smoothie that incorporates the flavor elements of a Milky Way without the high sugar and fat content.
Center for Science in the Public Interest: How many calories are in McDonald's & other milkshakes?
