If you want a topping heavy, shareable treat, choose a sundae. If you want a creamy, drinkable option you can take on the go, choose a milkshake. At Brooker's Founding Flavors Ice Cream in Saratoga Springs we craft both with our small batch, super premium ice cream, and each works best in different moments.
How a sundae and a milkshake differ, in plain terms
Both start with ice cream, but the experience is different. A sundae highlights scoops, textures and toppings. A milkshake blends ice cream into a drinkable form so the flavor stays uniform from first sip to last.
Texture and mouthfeel
Sundaes layer firm scoops, sauces, crunchy toppings and soft whipped cream. That mix of textures is part of the appeal. Milkshakes are smooth and creamy. The ice cream is emulsified with milk or cream so the overall mouthfeel is consistent.
Toppings and customization
Sundaes let you show off multiple toppings and separate components. You can mix hot sauce, fresh fruit, candy, nuts and sauces so each spoonful is different. Milkshakes can include mix ins blended in or stirred on top, but they read more as a single unified flavor.
Portability and sharing
Sundaes are best when you plan to sit, share and savor. Milkshakes are easier to take on a walk, to a picnic or back to the car. If you need a dessert that travels, a milkshake is usually the better choice.
Milkshake styles we often recommend
We make milkshakes using our seasonal and signature flavors. The style you choose changes the final result.
- Classic shake. Ice cream and milk, blended until smooth. Clean flavor and easy to sip.
- Thick shake. Less milk, more ice cream. Denser and richer, best with a spoon or wide straw.
- Malted style. Adds malt powder for a toasty, biscuit like note.
- Mix in shakes. Cookies, candy or fruit blended through so each sip has pieces and flavor bursts.
For more on the options we make and why they taste different, see our Milkshake Styles topic page.
When a milkshake is the right pick: you want something handheld, consistently flavored, and quick to enjoy. When a sundae is the right pick: you want variety in every bite, shareability, or a more elaborate presentation for a birthday or family photo.
Choosing by occasion and audience
Who you are with and what you plan to do often decides the choice.
- Families with kids and birthday parties: Sundaes let everyone pick a topping and make their own spoonfuls.
- Couples or dates: A shared sundae can feel playful and nostalgic.
- Tourists and visitors: A milkshake is easy to take while you stroll nearby attractions.
- School groups and event planners: Sundaes or dessert buffets let groups customize portions and flavors.
Because we welcome school groups and themed visits, our sundae presentations are a popular choice for groups that want variety.
Pro tip: If you cannot decide, order a thick milkshake and split a small sundae. You get both textures without committing to one format.
Allergens, dietary choices and what to ask
We use fresh, natural dairy from local family dairies and creative mix ins. If you or someone in your group has allergies or dietary needs, tell our staff before we prepare the item. We follow our allergen safety practices closely to reduce cross contact, and we list options and substitutions when possible.
To learn more about how we handle ingredients and safety, see our Allergen Safety topic page.
Quick checklist to decide right now
- Want to share or customize each bite? Choose a sundae.
- Need something handheld or portable? Choose a milkshake.
- Want to taste several flavors in one order? Choose a sundae with multiple scoops.
- Prefer a perfectly blended single flavor? Choose a milkshake.
What to expect from us at Brooker's Founding Flavors Ice Cream
We make our ice cream in small batches using premium ingredients from local family dairies that avoid artificial growth hormones and antibiotics. Our menu highlights chunky, swirly and seasonal flavors, and our tavern style setting nods to Early American history. That means both our sundaes and our milkshakes emphasize flavor and texture, and our staff is happy to suggest pairings for families and visitors.
Learn more about our Sundaes service and about visiting us in Saratoga Springs, Utah.
Key takeaway
Pick a sundae when you want topping forward variety and to share. Pick a milkshake when you want a smooth, portable, single flavor experience. At Brooker's Founding Flavors Ice Cream in Saratoga Springs we make both with the same small batch ice cream, so the deciding factor is the moment you are planning for.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make a milkshake from any flavor on the menu?
Yes, most flavors that are on our menu can be made into a milkshake. Some chunky or mix in heavy flavors may change texture, so we may blend them a bit longer or recommend a thick shake option.
Do you offer dairy free or lower lactose milkshakes and sundaes?
We list dietary options on our menu and can suggest choices that fit common needs. If you have a specific intolerance or allergy, please ask our staff so we can explain the options and how we handle ingredients.
What is the difference between a thick shake and a classic shake?
A thick shake has less added milk and more ice cream for a denser texture. A classic shake uses more milk for an easy sipping consistency.
Are sundaes a good choice for parties and events?
Yes. Our sundaes and dessert buffets are designed for family celebrations and school groups. We can explain portion sizes and presentation options when you plan an event.
Learn more and plan your visit
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