Is There a Non-Dairy Milkshake? A Guide to Delicious Alternatives

October 28, 2025 •

3 min read

Over 60% of people worldwide have some form of lactose intolerance, according to a 2024 survey. This has increased the popularity of plant-based treats, which leads to the question: is there a non-dairy milkshake? The answer is yes, and the choices are more delicious than ever.

Quick Summary

This article explores the best non-dairy ingredients and methods for making creamy, flavorful milkshakes. It covers frozen fruit bases, commercial vegan ice cream, and thickeners to achieve the ideal texture. Recipes and flavor variations are also included.

Key Points

Non-dairy milkshakes exist: Plant-based ingredients allow for creamy and delicious milkshakes without dairy.
Diverse ingredient options: Non-dairy options include plant-based milks (oat, soy, coconut), commercial vegan ice creams, frozen fruits (especially bananas), and thickening agents like silken tofu or guar gum.
Frozen bananas create creaminess: Using frozen bananas creates a thick, smooth texture without dairy or added sugar.
Oat and soy milks are creamiest: Oat milk and soy milk are recommended for the best, neutral-flavored liquid base because of their texture.
Commercial vegan ice cream simplifies things: Store-bought vegan ice cream is the easiest way to make a non-dairy milkshake, with many flavors available.
Thickeners can enhance texture: Ingredients like silken tofu, nut butter, or guar gum can be added to the blender for extra thickness.
Customization is easy: Non-dairy milkshakes are highly customizable with flavorings like chocolate, coffee, fruit, and spices, allowing for creativity.

The Rise of Non-Dairy Milkshakes

Traditionally, a milkshake is defined by its dairy base of milk and ice cream. However, with the rising interest in plant-based diets, veganism, and managing food sensitivities, a new wave of frozen treats has appeared. Today, creating a dairy-free milkshake is possible and easy, with many ingredients that replicate the creaminess of traditional milkshakes. Whether vegan, lactose intolerant, or just curious, the non-dairy milkshake options offer a world of flavor without dairy.

Core Ingredients for a Perfect Non-Dairy Shake

Making a perfect non-dairy milkshake starts with choosing the right base. Unlike traditional shakes, the base can be more than just a liquid and a frozen element. The following ingredients are essential for achieving the best flavor and texture:

Plant-Based Milk: This liquid component brings everything together. Oat milk and soy milk are popular for their creaminess and neutral flavor. For a richer shake, full-fat canned coconut milk is an excellent choice. For a lighter option, almond milk works well, especially with fruit-based shakes.
Non-Dairy Frozen Desserts: The most straightforward way to replicate a traditional milkshake's texture. Major brands now offer a variety of vegan ice creams made from oat, coconut, almond, or cashew milk. Ben & Jerry's Non-Dairy flavors and So Delicious frozen desserts are popular.
Frozen Fruit: A way to create a thick, naturally sweet, and healthy shake without pre-made frozen desserts. Frozen bananas are a creamy and versatile base for many flavors. Frozen strawberries, mangoes, and other fruits can also be used to add flavor and texture.
Thickeners and Emulsifiers: Ingredients like frozen banana slices, silken tofu, or a small amount of cornstarch can help achieve a thicker, smoother consistency. Guar gum is a commercial-grade thickener for extra creaminess.
Flavorings and Sweeteners: Vanilla extract, cocoa powder, chocolate syrup, maple syrup, dates, nut butters, and spices like cinnamon can all be used to customize your shake.

Making a Delicious Non-Dairy Milkshake at Home

The process of making a non-dairy milkshake is simple and requires only a blender. Finding the right balance of frozen and liquid ingredients is key to achieving the desired thickness.

Classic Vegan Vanilla Milkshake

Blend 1 cup non-dairy vanilla ice cream (oat or coconut based) with 1/2 cup oat or soy milk until smooth. Add vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Frozen Banana and Peanut Butter Shake

Blend 1-2 frozen bananas with 1/2 cup non-dairy milk and 2 tablespoons of your favorite peanut butter until creamy.

Chocolate Avocado Smoothie/Milkshake

Blend 1/4 of a ripe avocado, 1-2 frozen bananas, 1/2 cup non-dairy milk, and 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey treat.

Comparison Table: Non-Dairy Milkshake Bases


Feature	Vegan Ice Cream Base	Frozen Fruit Base	DIY Milkshake Cubes	Nut Butter Base
Convenience	High (ready-to-go)	High (requires freezing)	Low (requires prep time)	High (pantry staple)
Creaminess	Very High	High	Very High	High
Flavor Control	Limited (depends on ice cream)	High (natural sweetness)	Very High	High
Best For	Classic milkshakes	Healthier, simple shakes	Batch prep for convenience	Rich, dessert-like shakes
Ingredients Needed	Vegan Ice Cream, Plant Milk	Frozen Bananas/Fruit, Plant Milk	Plant Milk, Cashews, Cornstarch	Nut Butter, Frozen Banana, Plant Milk

Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Dairy Milkshakes

Conclusion

The answer to "is there a non-dairy milkshake?" is yes, with many creative and delicious options available for those avoiding dairy. From vegan ice cream to DIY frozen fruit bases, achieving a creamy, flavorful milkshake without traditional dairy is now easy. With the right ingredients and a blender, you can craft a delicious treat that rivals any classic milkshake, proving that a dairy-free lifestyle doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or indulgence. For more tips and recipes, see reputable vegan cooking resources online.

Authoritative Outbound Link: For inspiration and more plant-based recipes, visit https://myquietkitchen.com/vegan-milkshake/.

Frequently Asked Questions

For the creamiest and most neutral flavor, oat milk or soy milk are excellent choices. For a richer milkshake, full-fat canned coconut milk works well, though it will impart a coconut flavor.

Yes. A popular method is to use a base of frozen bananas, which provides a creamy, thick texture. Other frozen fruits or a base of cashews can also be used.

To thicken a non-dairy milkshake, add frozen banana slices, a spoonful of silken tofu, or a small amount of guar gum. Using less liquid or more frozen fruit also helps achieve a thicker consistency.

Many non-dairy milkshakes are healthier than traditional ones, especially when made with frozen fruit, plant-based milks, and natural sweeteners like dates or maple syrup. Using avocado can also add healthy fats and creaminess.

Yes, coconut milk is a great option. For a richer shake, use full-fat canned coconut milk. For a lighter version, carton coconut milk works well.

Most store-bought vegan ice creams work well for milkshakes, but they can vary in their base (oat, almond, coconut). Experiment with different brands and bases to find the one that gives you the flavor and texture you prefer.

Popular flavor variations include chocolate (using cocoa powder or vegan chocolate syrup), strawberry (using frozen strawberries), peanut butter, coffee, and even mint chocolate chip (using vegan ice cream and mint extract).