Beer's in a milkshake, but never on a sundae?

Nothing says summer like a frosty milkshake or a cold beer. Just don't assume the two are mutually exclusive.

Beer-flavored ice cream - often made with splashes of hearty brews such as stout - have become staples on dessert menus in brewpubs across the nation.

A British dairy caused a stir recently when it came out with New Castle Brown Ale-flavored ice cream, a creamy concoction that is said to highlight the distinctive New Castle taste. Unfortunately, the product appears to be available only in England.

To celebrate National Ice Cream month, the beer maker, in concert with chef David Burke, is sharing a couple of recipes for "grownup milkshakes" - shakes flavored with beer.

The flavors work better than one might expect.

The malts in beer, of course, are a natural component for shakes. And specialty brews, such as Samuel Adams Cherry Wheat, give plain vanilla shakes a dash of flavor. (For more information on Samuel Adams Cherry Wheat, see "Crack One Open" on this page.)

But beer isn't only for dessert. The right brew can be a key ingredient in everything from marinades for grilled food to salad dressings.

Or you can drink them.

Either way, Samuel Adams' summer variety 12-pack is a good place to start. The package features a variety of wheat styles perfect for a picnic or backyard barbecue.