Best Fast Food Milkshakes, Ranked

Best Fast Food Milkshakes

When stopping in at your favorite fast-food chain, the first thing that often comes to mind is the sandwiches, burgers, fries, and other menu staples. But that would be a mistake because these fast food chains often have milkshakes that rival the best in the business.

Let’s take a look at the best fast food milkshake rankings for the next time you need to satisfy the sweet tooth.

5. Culver's

Culver’s offers handcrafted milkshakes that are made with fresh frozen custard, resulting in an extra creamy and solid option when it comes to visiting these locations.  They have the standard flavors but also add ones like mint, caramel, and raspberry which definitely helps step the game up some. Those looking for solid, no-nonsense milkshakes for after a meal, Culver’s gets the job done for sure. They don’t stack up at the very top of the list, but it’s close.

4. McDonald's

The fast food icon has been serving milkshakes since its early days and it’s been a core offering almost since the beginning. The company introduced milkshakes to its menu in 1955, making them a long-standing favorite. McDonald’s doesn’t get nuts with the flavors, putting out chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry to make things simple. These timeless flavors have become staples at McDonald’s, with a smooth and creamy feel and consistent style. Plus, there’s just a bit of nostalgia here. 

3. In-N-Out Burger

In-N-Out Burger is a beloved fast food institution, and they’ve been serving milkshakes since their early days. Since then, it’s no surprise that milkshakes have become a core offering for the chain. They KISS (Keep it Simple Shakers) and offer the classics, chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Folks don’t flock to California just for In-and-Out Burgers, but for many, it’s the first stop when they land. The milkshakes are a big reason.

2. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A, known for its fan-favorite chicken sandwiches, is a somewhat surprising player when it comes to milkshakes. While their focus may be on poultry perfection, Chick-fil-A has managed to create milkshakes that are total winners. With a smooth texture, their milkshakes come in a range of flavors, including classic choices like chocolate and vanilla, as well as seasonal offerings like peach, autumn spice, or peppermint during specific times of the year. Don’t let these slip past you on the menu next time you are ordering.

1. Shake Shack

Shake Shack, as the name implies, knows a thing or two about shakes. It’s no surprise that their milkshakes are winners through and through. Shake Shack’s milkshakes are crafted with a care you won’t find at some of the other fast food chains, which makes sense considering they’ve made it a core part of their branding. Like the competitors, they do chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry with seasonal options as well. They just do it better.