Not all milkshakes are created equal—some are worth every creamy sip, while others are just overpriced sugar bombs. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat after a meal or looking for a dessert that doubles as a drink, a good fast food milkshake should strike the right balance between flavor, size, and price. We’ve rounded up some of the best milkshakes from major chains based on taste, value, and nutritional stats, so you can sip smarter without sacrificing flavor.
Shake Shack’s hand-spun shakes are rich, ultra-creamy, and made with real sugar—not syrups or powders. While they’re on the pricier side (around $5.49 for a regular), they deliver flavor in every ounce. Try the Black & White or the seasonal specials if you’re feeling adventurous. At around 620–750 calories per shake, they’re definitely a splurge, but a worthy one.
Thick and indulgent, Chick-fil-A’s shakes come in flavors like Cookies & Cream, Strawberry, and seasonal Peppermint Chip. Prices average $4.55 for a small, and they range from 550–690 calories. You also get a cherry and whipped cream on top, which makes it feel like a real dessert.
Customizable with mix-ins like peanut butter, Oreo crumbles, and bacon, Five Guys’ shakes are the most flexible on this list. They’re also some of the thickest around, which means you’ll need a spoon and a little patience. They’re about $5.79 and land between 670–800+ calories depending on add-ons.
Sonic is known for its wide range of shake options—both classic and “master” varieties—with prices starting around $3.99 for a small. Their real ice cream base keeps it smooth, and flavors like Banana Cream Pie and Oreo Cheesecake go well beyond the basics. Calorie counts range from 500–800+.
A budget-friendly option, McDonald’s shakes clock in around $3.49 for a small, making them a solid pick for flavor and price. The classic trio—chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry—is simple but satisfying. They’re lighter than premium shakes, with 500–530 calories for a small.
The BK Oreo Shake is creamy, cookie-packed, and usually priced under $4. It delivers great texture and flavor without overloading on calories—coming in around 630 for a medium. It’s also one of the better fast food shakes if you’re looking for a solid cookies-and-cream fix.
Sip Smart Tips
- Go small: A small shake is often plenty satisfying, and usually trims 200+ calories off the large version.
- Skip whipped cream if you’re watching sugar or fat content—it can add an extra 50–100 calories.
- Pair with a smaller meal if you’re including a shake to avoid going overboard on calories and cost.
When it comes to flavor and value, you don’t always have to spend big to treat yourself. From deluxe dessert shakes to classic crowd-pleasers, there’s something on every drive-thru menu to keep your sweet tooth happy—and your budget intact.
