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This creamy Shamrock Shake brings a festive burst of minty freshness perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just treating yourself to a nostalgic delight. It’s simple to make at home and tastes so much better than any fast-food version I’ve tried.
I first made this on a whim for a St. Patrick’s party and everyone loved how fresh and fun it was. Now it’s become a seasonal tradition in our household.
Ingredients
- Two cups vanilla ice cream: choose a good quality creamy variety for the smoothest texture and richest flavor
- Three quarters cup whole milk: whole milk adds creaminess & skim or plant-based milks work too but will be lighter
- Half teaspoon mint extract: use pure mint extract for a natural flavor & start with less and add more if you like stronger mintiness
- Four drops green food coloring: optional for the classic green hue & natural vegetable-based colorings are a good alternative
- Whipped cream for topping: freshly whipped cream brightens the shake and adds a lush finish
- One maraschino cherry for garnish: adds a pop of color and a sweet counterpoint to the mint
Instructions
- Scoop and blend:
- Put the vanilla ice cream and whole milk into a blender. Blend on medium speed until smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining. This is the base that makes the shake luscious.
- Add mint and color:
- Pour in the mint extract and carefully add green food coloring. Blend again until everything is fully mixed and the color is even throughout the shake. Give it a quick taste at this point and add a little more mint extract if you want a more pronounced flavor.
- Serve and garnish:
- Pour the shake into two glasses right away to keep the texture thick and cold. Generously top with whipped cream and gently place a maraschino cherry on top of each glass. Serve immediately while it’s perfectly cold and frothy.
One year my kids and I made shamrock shakes together and it was our little green tradition to mark the start of the season. We still laugh remembering the mess we made with the food coloring everywhere.
Storage Tips
Shakes are best enjoyed fresh to keep that creamy texture and frosty experience. If you want to prep ahead, blend the ice cream and milk alone and refrigerate. Add the mint extract and color just before serving for best results. Leftover shake doesn’t freeze well since ice crystals can form and ruin the smooth mouthfeel.
Ingredient Substitutions
For dairy-free, use coconut or almond milk along with a plant-based vanilla ice cream alternative to keep creaminess intact. If you do not have mint extract, peppermint extract can be used but start with less as it tends to be stronger and sharper. Natural green color can come from spinach juice or matcha powder blended in, though this may alter flavor slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade Shamrock Shake with classic crispy fries or a chocolate chip cookie for nostalgic diner vibes. It’s also a fun after-dinner dessert treat that pairs beautifully with a slice of rich chocolate cake or brownie. Top the whipped cream with rainbow sprinkles or crushed peppermint for a festive touch.
Add a handful of spinach for a nutrient boost and natural green tint without compromising flavor.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What gives the shake its green color?
The green color comes from a few drops of green food coloring added during blending.
- → Can I adjust the mint flavor intensity?
Yes, the amount of mint extract can be increased or decreased to suit your taste preferences.
- → What is the best way to blend the ingredients?
Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy for the best texture.
- → Is whipped cream necessary for topping?
Whipped cream adds a rich, fluffy texture and enhances presentation, but it can be omitted if preferred.
- → What type of milk works best in this shake?
Whole milk is recommended for its creaminess, but alternatives can be used depending on dietary needs.