Ingredients
For the Milkshake:
- 3 cups (450g) premium vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
- ½ cup (120ml) cold whole milk, plus more as needed
- 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste (optional, for visual appeal)
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Tiny pinch of salt
For Serving:
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherries
- Vanilla wafers or cookies (optional)
Instructions
- Chill Equipment: Place blender jar and serving glasses in freezer for 15-20 minutes.
- Soften Ice Cream: Remove ice cream from freezer and let sit at room temperature for exactly 5 minutes until slightly softened but still firm.
- Add Ingredients: Place ice cream in blender first, followed by milk, vanilla extract, and optional ingredients (cream, vanilla bean paste, sugar, salt).
- Blend Minimally: Start blender on lowest speed for 5 seconds. Increase to medium and blend for only 10-15 seconds total, until just combined. Use a tamper or spoon to push ingredients toward blades if needed.
- Check Consistency: Mixture should be very thick and flow slowly. Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time if too thick, or more ice cream if too thin.
- Serve Immediately: Pour into chilled glasses, filling about ¾ full. The shake should pour slowly and thickly.
- Add Toppings: Top with whipped cream and a cherry. Insert thick straws and serve with long spoons.
- Enjoy: Consume immediately for best texture and temperature.
Notes
- Use premium ice cream with high butterfat content for best results
- Don’t over-blend—15-20 seconds maximum
- Start with less milk than you think you need; you can always add more
- Shake is best consumed within 10 minutes of making
- For thicker shake, use less milk (â…“ cup) or add 2 tablespoons instant pudding mix
- Can be made dairy-free with non-dairy ice cream and milk alternatives
- Add 2 tablespoons malted milk powder for a classic malted shake
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian