Ah, the coffee milkshake – a perfect marriage of two beloved treats, celebrated each year on July 26 as National Coffee Milkshake Day. This delightful concoction satisfies our cravings for something cool and sweet, while also delivering a delicious caffeine boost. It’s the ultimate pick-me-up on a hot summer day!
The Origins of the Coffee Milkshake
While the exact origins of the coffee milkshake are a bit murky, we can trace the key ingredients back centuries. Coffee, first discovered in Ethiopia around 850 AD, made its way to Yemen in the 1400s and eventually to America in the 1700s, where it replaced tea as the patriotic beverage of choice after the Boston Tea Party.
Milkshakes, meanwhile, emerged in the early 1900s as “wholesome drinks” blending milk, ice cream, and flavored syrups. But it wasn’t until the 1930s that some clever soda jerk (likely at Delekta’s pharmacy in Rhode Island) thought to add coffee to the mix, creating the first true coffee milkshake, or “coffee cabinet” as it was known locally.
Celebrating Coffee Milkshake Day
So how can you make the most of this delicious holiday? Here are a few ideas:
Experiment with Recipes
The basic coffee milkshake recipe is simple – blend coffee (hot or cold), ice cream (vanilla is classic, but get creative!), and milk until smooth. But from there, the possibilities are endless. Try adding chocolate syrup, caramel, cinnamon, or even a dash of spice. For an adult twist, spike it with a shot of whiskey or coffee liqueur.
Host a Tasting Party
Invite friends over for a coffee milkshake tasting party. Have each person bring their own unique recipe to share, and vote on favorites. It’s a fun way to discover new flavor combinations and enjoy some friendly competition.
Visit a Classic Soda Fountain
For a true taste of nostalgia, seek out an old-fashioned soda fountain (like Delekta’s in Rhode Island, home of the original coffee cabinet) and enjoy a coffee milkshake made the traditional way, complete with whipped cream and a cherry on top.
A Treat for All Seasons
While National Coffee Milkshake Day falls at the height of summer, when we crave icy treats the most, the truth is this beverage is perfect year-round. It’s a comforting pick-me-up on a chilly day, a refreshing afternoon boost, or a sweet ending to any meal. And with endless ways to customize it to your taste, you can enjoy a different coffee milkshake creation every day of the year!
So whether you like yours classic or creative, spiked or spiced, raise a frosty glass on July 26 and savor the delicious union of coffee and ice cream. Happy National Coffee Milkshake Day!