The Shamrock Shake is one beloved treat alighting the kickoff of St. Patty’s day with a refreshing, minty taste and vibrant green color. So this fan favorite shake is equal parts cooling and luxurious, a delicious Italian treat all in one drink, a perfect way to either celebrate the Irish holiday or enjoy some sweet and creamy guilt.

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How to Make Homemade Shamrock Shake

To make a shamrock shake, blend the ice cream and milk together until smooth in a blender then add peppermint extract to your desired strength. Stir in food coloring to reach your desired color. Serve in a glass topped with whipped cream and crushed mint candy, if desired. Enjoy straight away as a refreshing holiday treat.

Ingredients

2 cups vanilla ice cream
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Green food color(optional)
Whipped cream (for topping)
Garnish with a Maraschino cherry

Instructions

Blend: Mix the vanilla ice cream, milk, and peppermint extract in a blender. Process until it is entirely smooth and all plant-based ingredients are well mixed. If you want it thinner add more milk, if not thicker than ice cream.
Color: Green food coloring to get it that festive emerald. Blend again until the shake has an even color throughout.
Serve: Serve in a tall glass with whipped cream swirl and maraschino cherry on top for the classic look.

Serving Suggestions

Festive Gatherings: Ideal for having a little Irish charm on St. Patrick’s Day or at any party.
Minty Variation: Include crumbled mint candy or chocolate chips for a nice crunch and subtle chocolaty goodness.
Dairy-Free Options: For a dairy-free Halloween gelato float, swap in your favorite non-dairy ice cream and milk alternative (i.e. almond).
Alcohol-Infused Treats: Upgrade your drinkware with Irish cream or go above the rim for dessert classics.
Creative Toppings: Decorate with whipped coconut cream, crushed nuts, or a caramel drizzle.
Seasonal Fruits: Add some little cut-up berries or a few sliced bananas on top to tie the flavors together with a fruity note.
Theme Desserts: To take your festive gatherings up a notch, whip smash out themed desserts like Irish cupcakes/cakes.

Tips and Variations

Flavor Adjustments: If it needs more peppermint extract, feel free to add it. You should only put a tiny bit and then add more if needed.
Garnish Creativity: Finish with a light sprinkling of cocoa powder or crushed cookies for extra playing value.
Layered Presentation: Layer different greens or put in contrast with a chocolate shake for a more fun appeal.
Texture Enhancements: Blend in some avocado or Greek yogurt for a creamier shake. It not only helps with texture but also adds nutritional content.
Nutty Flavor: You can highlight the nutty flavor by adding a tbsp of almond or pb in it to introduce an additional layer of flavor and fiber.
Frozen Fruits: Frozen banana/spinach leaves without compromising taste.
Adjust Sweetness: Depending on preference, balance the sweetness using honey, agave syrup, or sugar substitute.
Extra Chilled: For an extra frosty shake, you can add ice cubes or frozen ingredients for a slushier style.

Preparation Time

Approximately 5 minutes
Serving size: 1

Nutrition Information

Calories: 390
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 170mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: <1g
Sugar: 44g
Protein: 7g

Ingredient Substitutes

Milk: Any milk you like, nuts, soy, or dairy.
Peppermint Extract: To change up the flavor profile, use almond or vanilla extract instead of peppermint.
Green Food Coloring: I like to keep things as real food as possible so if you have a problem using it then leave out and sub matcha powder for the green color. Use as much or little you need for your shade of fondant.
Ice Cream: Try other ice cream flavors, like chocolate or coffee to create a fun variation on the classic shake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Shamrock Shake vegan?

In a vegan version, non-dairy ice cream (like this easy and decadent Vanilla Vegan Ice Cream), so understand the milk of your choice that you prefer to replace dairy options. Just make sure the whipped cream is dairy-free, or leave it out altogether.

How can I enhance the mint flavor in the Shamrock Shake?

Add fresh mint leaves or mint-flavored liqueur if you so desire to increase the minty flavors along with more peppermint extract. Or crushed mint candies or even a piece of mint chocolate bark can work.

Can I prepare the Shamrock Shake ahead of time?

It is best served right away, but you can also make this ahead of time and freeze it as well. To serve, thaw a little and blend it so that its original consistency is regained.

Is it safe to omit the food coloring?

The taste does not change in any way since food coloring is a cosmetic treatment. Matcha or Spinach will give you green naturally.

Conclusion

The Shamrock Shake is a simple treat that adds festive flavor to your menu and makes any event more vibrant with each sip. Enjoy the smiles as you serve it with confidence. Cheers to minty good times.

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