Pin It This creamy milkshake blends vanilla ice cream, whole milk, and pure mint extract for a refreshing flavor. Sweetness can be adjusted with sugar, and optional green food coloring adds a festive touch. Served chilled, it’s topped with whipped cream and finished with a bright maraschino cherry, creating a perfect cool treat. Variations include chocolate ice cream for a mint-chocolate twist or plant-based substitutes for vegan preferences. Quick to prepare and ideal for warm days or celebrations.
Last summer, my niece came over complaining about the heat, and I threw together whatever was in the freezer. That bright green milkshake saved the afternoon. Now it's her most requested treat.
I made these for my book club last month, and everyone stopped mid-sentence after the first sip. Sometimes the simplest desserts are the ones people remember most.
Ingredients
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Use a good quality brand for the creamiest base and let it soften slightly before blending
- Whole Milk: Essential for the right consistency, though you can use any milk you have on hand
- Mint Extract: Pure extract gives the best flavor, and a little goes a long way
- Maraschino Cherries: That classic finishing touch makes it feel like a real diner experience
Instructions
- Gather Your Ingredients:
- Pull everything out of the freezer and fridge so you're ready to blend
- Blend It Up:
- Toss the ice cream, milk, mint extract, and sugar into your blender and pulse until completely smooth
- Taste Test:
- Give it a quick taste and add more mint or sugar if it needs adjusting
- Pour and Serve:
- Pour into chilled glasses, top with whipped cream, and crown each with a cherry
Pin It My dad still talks about the mint milkshakes we'd get after baseball games. Making them at home brings back that same joy, minus the sticky diner booths.
Getting the Right Consistency
Too thick and you'll need a spoon, too thin and it's just flavored milk. The ratio of two cups ice cream to one cup milk hits that sweet spot every time.
Flavor Variations
Chocolate ice cream transforms this into a thin mint shake. Adding crushed Oreos makes it cookies and cream. Don't be afraid to experiment.
Serving Suggestions
Chill your glasses in the freezer for at least ten minutes before serving. This simple step keeps the milkshake colder longer.
- Crushed graham crackers on top add fun texture
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce takes it over the top
- Serve with a straw AND a long spoon
Pin It There's something about that bright green swirl and cherry on top that makes any day feel like a celebration.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use peppermint instead of mint extract?
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Yes, peppermint offers a sharper mint flavor. Add it gradually to avoid overpowering the drink.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
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Absolutely. Substitute plant-based ice cream and milk to create a vegan-friendly version.
- → How can I intensify the mint flavor?
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Increase the mint extract by a quarter teaspoon for a stronger minty taste without altering the texture.
- → What’s the purpose of green food coloring?
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It adds a vibrant hue to enhance the visual appeal, but it’s optional and doesn’t affect taste.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
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This milkshake is best served immediately to maintain its creamy, chilled texture.
