Are you a fan of sweet treats and fast food? Then you’ve probably heard of Shake Shack’s famous “concrete.” It’s a deliciously thick, creamy frozen custard blended with all sorts of mix-ins, from candy to fruit to cookies. But what exactly is a concrete, and why is it such a beloved dessert option? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Shake Shack concrete, from its history to its ingredients to its nutritional content.
Table of Contents
What is a Shake Shack Concrete?
A Shake Shack concrete is a type of frozen custard dessert that’s blended with various mix-ins. Unlike a traditional milkshake, a concrete is much thicker and creamier, almost like soft serve ice cream. The name “concrete” comes from the fact that the dessert is so thick, you could turn it upside down and it wouldn’t spill out of the cup. Shake Shack’s frozen custard is made fresh every day, using only simple, high-quality ingredients like sugar, cream, and eggs. The mix-ins vary depending on the location and season, but some popular options include chocolate chunks, cookie dough, fresh fruit, and even pie crust.
History of Shake Shack Concrete
Shake Shack was founded in 2004 as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park in New York City. In 2005, the cart was upgraded to a permanent kiosk, and soon after, the menu expanded to include burgers, fries, and milkshakes. It wasn’t until a few years later that the Shake Shack concrete was born. According to Shake Shack’s website, the concrete was created in 2007 as a way to showcase the company’s frozen custard in a new and exciting way. The dessert quickly became a hit, and Shake Shack now offers a variety of concretes at all of its locations around the world.
How to Order a Shake Shack Concrete
Ordering a Shake Shack concrete is simple. First, choose your size – the options are small, regular, and large. Next, select your mix-ins. You can either choose from the pre-set options on the menu or create your own custom blend. Finally, watch as your concrete is blended to perfection right in front of you.
What Makes Shake Shack Concrete So Special?
There are a few things that set Shake Shack concrete apart from other frozen custard desserts. First, the frozen custard itself is made fresh every day, giving it a richer, creamier texture than other types of ice cream. Second, the mix-ins are always high-quality and often locally-sourced, adding a unique flavor and texture to each concrete. Finally, the blending process is done by hand, ensuring that each concrete is perfectly mixed and perfectly thick.
What’s in a Shake Shack Concrete?
The ingredients in a Shake Shack concrete vary depending on the flavor and mix-ins. However, the base recipe for the frozen custard is always the same:
- Cage-free eggs
- Real sugar
- Real milk
- Real cream
The mix-ins can include anything from candy to cookies to fresh fruit. Some popular options include:
- Chocolate chunks
- Oreo cookie pieces
- Strawberries
- Peanut butter cups
- Blueberries
Shake Shack Concrete Nutrition Facts
While Shake Shack concretes are undeniably delicious, they’re not exactly the healthiest dessert option. Here are the nutrition facts for a small vanilla concrete with no mix-ins:
| Calories | 490 |
|---|---|
| Calories from Fat | 270 |
| Total Fat | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Trans Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 135mg |
| Sodium | 100mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 42g |
| Protein | 9g |
Of course, these numbers will vary depending on the size and mix-ins of your concrete. If you’re trying to watch your calorie intake, it’s best to stick with a small size and choose mix-ins that are lower in sugar and fat.
Shake Shack Concrete Q&A
To help you learn even more about Shake Shack concrete, here are some commonly asked questions and answers: Q: How long has Shake Shack been serving concrete? A: Shake Shack introduced concrete to its menu in 2007, so it’s been serving the dessert for over a decade now. Q: Can you order a concrete with no mix-ins? A: Yes, you can order a plain vanilla or chocolate concrete with no mix-ins. Q: Are the mix-ins different at every Shake Shack location? A: Yes, the mix-ins vary depending on the location and season. Some locations also offer special limited-time flavors. Q: Can you take a Shake Shack concrete to go? A: Yes, you can order a concrete to go in a cup or a pint-sized container.
People’s Response to Shake Shack Concrete
Since its inception, Shake Shack concrete has been a fan favorite among dessert lovers. People rave about the thick, creamy texture, the variety of mix-ins, and the overall deliciousness of the dessert. Some people even say that Shake Shack concrete is the best frozen custard they’ve ever had. Of course, there are always a few dissenters who don’t care for the dessert’s richness or sweetness, but overall, Shake Shack concrete has a loyal following.
Final Thoughts
Shake Shack concrete is a unique and delicious dessert option that’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity, chocolatey, or nutty, there’s a concrete blend for you. Just be aware that these desserts are high in calories and sugar, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation. If you’re a fan of frozen custard, or just looking for a new dessert to try, Shake Shack concrete is definitely worth a taste.
