Shake Toppings and Mix Ins

What we mean by toppings and mix ins

In this context a topping is an element added to the outside or surface of a shake after it is blended. Common examples are whipped cream, toasted nuts and a drizzle of hot fudge. A mix in is something blended into the shake itself to change texture or flavor, such as cookie pieces, brownies or malt powder. Both types are tools we use to produce a desired experience for families, date nights and celebratory groups who visit our colonial themed shop in Lehi.

Why toppings and mix ins matter locally

In Lehi and the surrounding communities we see customers choose shakes for three main reasons: comfort and nostalgia, an occasion or celebration, and curiosity about new flavors. Toppings and mix ins are the fastest way to change a shake from familiar to memorable. They matter because they affect how a shake tastes, how it feels in the mouth, and how it photographs for sharing with friends.

When you come to Brookers you are choosing handcrafted ice cream served in a Revolutionary War setting. Toppings and mix ins let us match that experience to the moment, whether a simple cone for a quick treat or an indulgent shake for a birthday.

Key concepts to know

• Base matters. The flavor and fat content of our small batch ice cream determine how a mix in shows through. A rich vanilla base highlights fruit and caramel, while chocolate lets cocoa heavy mix ins feel more integrated.
• Texture is a decision. Mix ins add crunch, chew or creaminess. Biscuit crumbs and toasted nuts are crunchy, cookie dough and brownies are chewy, and sauces make a shake silkier without changing chew.
• Sweetness balance. Some toppings raise perceived sweetness, others add contrast. Salted nuts, espresso shots and tart fruit help keep a shake from tasting one note.
• Presentation counts. Toppings are often the first thing people notice. A thoughtful topping elevates the moment in our colonial dining room and on social media.
• Allergens and preferences. Nuts, wheat, dairy and eggs are common in mix ins. We recommend checking ingredient notes when you order and asking about cross contact if you have a serious allergy.

Common topping and mix in categories

Sauces and swirls

Hot fudge, caramel, strawberry compote and peanut butter sauce are classic choices. We use sauces both as a swirl inside the shake and as an accent on top, because they add intense flavor without changing mouthfeel too much.

Crunchy mix ins

Crumbled cookies, chopped nuts and toasted cereal pieces add bite. Crunchy elements work well with milkshakes that are meant to be eaten slowly, and they contrast nicely with whipped cream and soft sauces.

Soft and chewy mix ins

Brownie pieces, cookie dough and toffee bits give chew. These are usually blended gently so you get chunks rather than fully puréed texture.

Fresh fruit and compotes

Strawberries, bananas and berry compotes brighten a shake. Fruit is often used to balance richer bases like chocolate or peanut butter.

Candy and nostalgic treats

Mini candy pieces, chocolate chips and malted milk balls are popular with kids and college students. Candy adds color and familiarity, which pairs well with our themed atmosphere.

How we think about pairing flavors

Pairing is about contrast and reinforcement. For instance, a salted caramel sauce reinforces a butter pecan base, while a citrus compote provides contrast against caramel or chocolate. When you want a layered experience we recommend:

• Match an assertive mix in with a mild base, for example, chocolate chip cookie mix ins with plain vanilla.
• Use a tart topping to cut through richness, for example, lemon curd with mascarpone ice cream.
• Add a textural top that complements the mix in, for example, toasted almonds over a shake with brownie pieces.

For more on flavor choices see our Flavor Guide and our Milkshakes page.

Choosing toppings and mix ins

Ordering and customization at Brookers

We build shakes with a base of our super premium ice cream, then add mix ins by weight and sauces by volume so the final texture is consistent. You can choose to have mix ins blended for a uniform flavor or folded in for chunks that stay distinct. For temperature and thickness options see our Shake Thickness and Customization guide.

We also use toppings to make sundaes and shakes visually fitting for celebrations. For more ideas on building desserts see Build Your Own Ideas and our Sundaes page.

Comparison table of common choices

Common questions we get

Can I make my shake less sweet?

Yes. Ask for less sauce, choose a less sweet base like plain vanilla, or add a tart fruit topping. We note sweetness levels on our menu and can suggest combos that balance richness with acidity.

What mix ins work best for kids?

Sprinkles, mini candies and cookie crumbs are popular with kids because they are colorful and familiar. Our Kid Friendly Shakes topic has more ideas for smaller portions and lower caffeine options.

Do you have nut free options?

We offer options that do not include tree nuts as ingredients, but our kitchen uses nuts. If you have a severe allergy, speak with staff so we can recommend safer choices and identify items with lower cross contact risk.

Related services

Mix ins and toppings are closely tied to our core menu items. See these pages for how toppings translate across desserts in our shop:

• Ice Creamthe foundation for all shakes and mix ins.
• Milkshakesmain vehicle for mix ins and toppings.
• Sundaestoppings presented differently but often the same ingredients.
• Cakessome mix ins appear as cake fillings or decorations.

Related locations we serve

We are based in Lehi, Utah and welcome visitors from nearby communities. Locals from Draper, American Fork, Saratoga Springs, Highland, Bluffdale, Riverton, Sandy, Orem and Provo often stop by for shakes and celebration desserts. Our themed interior and staff in period costume make a visit feel like a small outing for families and date night groups alike.

Helpful resources and food safety notes

For serious allergy guidance and labeling rules see the U.S. Food and Drug Administration page on food allergens and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for food safety tips on storing dairy desserts. If you want to dive deeper into how mix ins affect texture and mouthfeel a general overview from food science departments at universities is useful.

We follow safe handling practices for dairy and toppings and track ingredient sources so we can answer questions about allergens and composition.

External resources:

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration on food allergens

Common objections and misconceptions

Some people worry that too many mix ins ruin a shake. In our experience balance is the key. A few thoughtful mix ins highlight the base and toppings rather than overpower them. Another misconception is that more toppings always cost more. Pricing and portioning are set by menu item and size to keep portions sensible.