Shake add ins are extra ingredients we fold or blend into a milkshake to change its texture, flavor and appearance. In plain terms, add ins let a simple milkshake become a playful chunky or swirly dessert that fits the occasion, from a kids treat to a large format party shake.
What are shake add ins
Direct answer: Shake add ins are mix ins like cookies, candy, fruit, sauces, or baked pieces that are combined with ice cream and milk to alter taste and mouthfeel. We use them to build shakes that are smooth and creamy, thick and chunky, or highly decorated for presentation.
How we approach add ins at Brooker's Founding Flavors Ice Cream
We start with our small batch homemade ice cream, then choose mix ins to complement the base flavor. Our approach balances texture, sweetness and visual appeal so a shake performs well both on the spoon and on stage during one of our theatrical presentations. The result is a milkshake that tastes intentional and looks memorable in our Early American tavern inspired setting.
Why shake add ins matter, especially locally
In Herriman and the greater Salt Lake region, families and visitors expect a dessert experience that feels like an outing. Add ins let you tailor a shake for a kid friendly treat, a birthday centerpiece, or a date night indulgence. Because we serve guests from nearby neighborhoods such as Draper, Layton, Bountiful and Salt Lake City, we design mix ins that travel well, photograph well, and appeal to a broad range of tastes.
For event planners and families, add ins also determine how shareable a shake will be, how easy it is to transport, and how it pairs with other desserts like sundaes and ice cream cakes.
Key concepts to understand about add ins
- Texture matters. Chunky mix ins like cookie pieces add chew. Sauce and syrup add smoothness and shine.
- Flavor pairing. Some add ins highlight the base ice cream, others create contrast. For example, tart fruit plays against a rich vanilla base.
- Timing and method. Whether we fold an add in at the end or blend it fully changes the final texture.
- Presentation counts. Big format shakes and theatrical servings use whole pieces and visible swirls for effect.
- Allergy and dietary choices. Nuts and dairy alternatives matter for families with restrictions. We offer guidance and alternate options on request.
Popular add in categories and what they do
Below are common categories you will see in our shakes and what each adds to the final dessert.
| Add in | Texture | Pairs well with |
|---|---|---|
| Cookie and brownie pieces | Chunky and chewy | Vanilla, chocolate, salted caramel |
| Candy and chocolate pieces | Crisp to chewy depending on candy | Chocolate bases, peanut butter, coffee |
| Fresh fruit and compote | Soft and juicy | Yoghurt based or lighter cream bases, lemon curd |
| Sauces and swirls | Smooth, glossy | Any base for added sweetness and visual contrast |
| Nuts and toffee | Crunchy | Butterscotch, chocolate, coffee |
How we make a shake with add ins
We keep the process visible and consistent so guests know what to expect. We do not provide home instructions that replace a visit, but here is how we build a shake when you order one in the shop.
- Choose a base. We start with a small batch ice cream flavor that sets the tone. Our bases are super premium and often chunky or swirly.
- Select add ins. Pick one or multiple mix ins depending on texture goals. We recommend one textural element and one sauce for balance.
- Blend or fold. We blend for creaminess or fold for chunk retention. The choice changes mouthfeel and presentation.
- Finish and present. For large format shakes we garnish with whole items and sauces. Our theatrical presentation is part of the experience.
Pro tip: If you want a visually dramatic shake for a birthday or event, ask for whole pieces on top and a contrasting sauce swirl so the presentation shows clearly in photos.
Checklist when choosing shake add ins
Quick choices to consider
- Who is sharing the shake, and do any guests have allergies.
- Do you want a thick spoonable shake or a smooth sippable shake.
- Are you pairing the shake with other desserts like a sundae or an ice cream cake.
- Do you want the shake to be transport friendly for a nearby event.
Common questions about shake add ins
Will add ins change serving size or portion expectations
Add ins can increase perceived volume because chunks and toppings sit above the rim. For events we suggest selecting a size up if you want generous sharing portions. Our large format options and custom cakes are designed for group servings.
Which add ins travel best for a short drive
Sauces or compact mix ins like small cookie pieces hold up better than fragile toppings like whole fruit. If you plan to bring a shake to an outdoor event, mention that when you order and we can recommend stable options.
Can we mix several add ins together
Yes, but keep balance in mind. We typically recommend limiting strong flavors to one dominant component so the shake reads clearly. Our team can suggest combinations from our mix in combinations guide and our milkshake styles overview.
Related services at Brooker's Founding Flavors Ice Cream
Shake add ins are closely tied to other menu items and services you will find at our Herriman location. When planning a family night or event, consider how a shake fits with:
- Milkshakes, which are the most direct way to use mix ins for texture and presentation.
- Ice cream by itself, where the same add ins can be folded in for sundaes or scoops.
- Sundaes, where toppings and sauces are often shared elements with shakes.
- Cakes, since many popular add ins translate directly into cake fillings and decorations.
Related locations and occasions we serve
We are based in Herriman UT and welcome guests from across the greater Salt Lake area. Common pickup and event locations include Roy, Ogden, South Ogden, West Haven, Riverdale, Layton, Clearfield, Syracuse, North Salt Lake, Salt Lake City, West Bountiful, Bountiful, Centerville, Farmington, Kaysville, South Salt Lake, Draper, Layton Hills, Pleasant View and Fruit Heights. Families bring children for birthday parties, event planners choose dramatic shakes for gatherings, and tourists stop by for a memorable dessert experience.
Helpful resources and further reading
For more ideas about how to pair add ins and choose the right format, explore these internal guides:
- Mix in combinations for tested pairings.
- Milkshake styles to match texture and presentation goals.
- Dairy free options when dietary needs require alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as an add in for a shake
An add in is any ingredient added to the base ice cream and milk mixture, including baked pieces, candies, fruit, sauces and crunchy elements. The technique used to combine the add in influences the final texture.
Can you make a shake without dairy
We offer dairy free options and suggestions for mix ins that work with non dairy bases. See our dairy free options guide for specifics.
Do add ins affect the price
Some premium or large format add ins may affect the item selection on our menu. Please check our milkshake menu for available options and sizes when you visit.
Are add ins safe for birthday party orders
Yes, but please tell us about allergies in the group. We can recommend toppings and avoid nuts or other common allergens when planning a party dessert.
Key takeaway
Shake add ins turn a milkshake into a personalized dessert by changing texture, flavor and presentation. At Brooker's Founding Flavors Ice Cream in Herriman UT we use small batch ice cream, bold mix ins and theatrical presentation to create memorable shakes for families, parties and visitors from across the Salt Lake region.
Learn more and find us
Check our Google Business Profile for reviews, photos and directions. To explore how add ins pair with other menu items, see our pages on milkshakes and mix in combinations.