Skip McDonald’s and make this sweet and refreshingly minty Shamrock Shake at home!
I love all kinds of desserts and candy, but one of my favorite splurges is milkshakes. As a child, whenever I went with my grandfather to a diner, I’d order one—vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or banana. Thick, creamy, and delicious, there is so much to love about a milkshake. But one of my favorite shakes of all time is the classic shamrock shake from McDonald’s.
The shamrock shake dates back to 1967, when a McDonald’s franchise in Connecticut first served the “green St. Patrick’s Day milkshake.” It grew in popularity in the 1970s, reaching more locations. It was initially just a green vanilla milkshake until 1983, when the mint syrup was added. This is the shamrock shake I fell in love with and what we replicate with this recipe.
My mom wasn’t a fan of fast food, so McDonald’s was all but banned in our family—except on road trips! That’s when Mom would let loose, and we’d stuff our faces with fries and Big Macs. But I remember trying my first shamrock shake on one road trip to San Francisco. It was love at first sip, and I’ve enjoyed them ever since. So, believe me when I say this recipe is a near-perfect replication of this beloved treat.
Is A Shamrock Shake Healthy?
Considering this recipe consists of ice cream, whole milk, and green food coloring, I think you know the answer! Of course, there are natural food coloring options if you want to steer clear of the synthetic stuff. You can also find organic ice cream these days. Still, dessert is dessert, and that’s okay! Enjoy this recipe in moderation.
You can easily make a vegan shamrock shake by substituting your ice cream with plant-based ice cream, whole milk for full-fat almond or soy milk, and whipped cream with a dairy-free whipped cream alternative. The recipe is also gluten-free, making it a safe treat for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Are Mint And Peppermint Flavoring The Same Thing?
It’s a common misunderstanding that mint and peppermint are interchangeable. Actually, mint is more of an umbrella term for plants in the Mentha family, including peppermint and spearmint. Peppermint, however, is a mint plant with a high level of menthol. Consequently, the cool flavor and aroma of peppermint can easily be overpowering. To stay true to that classic shamrock shake flavor, stick with the mint extract (usually made from spearmint). If you only have peppermint, you can still use it—but only use one-eighth of a teaspoon! This stuff is potent!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover shake, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let the shake thaw slightly in the fridge until its creamy texture has returned.
Serving Suggestions
Your shamrock shake can easily be enjoyed as a dessert on its own, topped with whipped cream and maraschino cherries. But it also makes a great drink to enjoy with a fast-food-themed meal. For example, this shake’s minty freshness pairs well with a spicy Jalapeño Popper Burger With Ranch or a batch of finger-licking Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders. And while you’re at it, make this McDonald’s French Fries Recipe for the full effect!
However you decide to enjoy it, the shamrock shake will become a staple of your treats. And unlike the original, it will not be available for a limited time only.
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon mint extract
- 8 drops green food coloring
- Whipped cream for topping
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- In a blender, combine vanilla ice cream, whole milk, mint extract, and green food coloring.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the shake into two glasses and top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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