Scoops of summer: Celebrating July Ice Cream Month with milkshakes and malts

July is celebrated as National Ice Cream Month, making it the perfect time for families to slow down, cool off and enjoy sweet summertime traditions together. Declared by former President Ronald Reagan in 1984, National Ice Cream Month highlights one of America’s favorite desserts while encouraging families to gather and create lasting memories around the table. From neighborhood ice cream shops to homemade milkshakes blended in the kitchen, frozen treats have long been tied to summer vacations, backyard cookouts and evenings spent with family and friends.

Milkshakes and malts continue to be classic favorites during the hot summer months. A milkshake is traditionally made with ice cream, milk and flavorings blended until smooth and creamy. A malt, sometimes called a malted milkshake, contains the same ingredients but includes malted milk powder, which gives the drink a slightly nutty, toasted flavor and thicker texture. Other frozen favorites in the same family include floats, made by combining soda or other beverages with ice cream. These desserts can be customized with endless flavors, toppings and mix-ins ranging from fresh fruit to chocolate candies and cookies.

Beyond flavor and fun, ice cream desserts can also provide nutritional value when enjoyed in moderation. Dairy-based treats made with milk and ice cream contain important nutrients including calcium, vitamin D and protein, which support bone health and muscle function. Families can easily add additional nutrition by blending milkshakes with fresh strawberries, bananas or peanut butter. Yogurt-based shakes and lighter frozen desserts can also provide satisfying options while still delivering the creamy texture many people enjoy during summer celebrations. The versatility of frozen desserts allows families to adjust ingredients based on personal tastes and nutrition goals.

Whether enjoyed after a baseball game, during a camping trip or around the backyard patio on a warm evening, frozen desserts continue to bring families together during the summer season. Creating homemade milkshakes, malts and other frozen treats can become a simple tradition children look forward to year after year. National Ice Cream Month serves as a reminder that some of the best summer memories are often made through simple moments shared with loved ones — especially when ice cream is involved.

Classic Chocolate Malt

Rich, creamy and nostalgic, a classic chocolate malt is a timeless frozen treat that has been enjoyed for generations. This easy recipe combines the smooth flavor of chocolate ice cream with the signature toasted taste of malted milk powder for the ultimate summertime dessert.

Ingredients

2 cups vanilla ice cream

3/4 cup milk

2 tablespoons chocolate syrup

2 tablespoons malted milk powder

Whipped cream, optional

Procedure

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Top with whipped cream before serving.