This shamrock shake recipe is a copy of the McDonald’s favorite! It’s a mix of ice cream, milk and mint, all blended to creamy perfection.
No need to wait until Saint Patrick’s Day; now you can make a mint milkshake, also known as a Shamrock Shake, at home all year round!
St. Patrick’s Day is such a fun holiday, especially when it comes to the food! I always enjoy corned beef and cabbage for dinner on this holiday, but I can’t make it through the month without stopping at McDonald’s for their iconic Shamrock Shake. These minty milkshakes are actually SO very easy to make at home, and they’re a fun way to celebrate with the kids!
How to make a shamrock shake
For this recipe, you’ll need vanilla ice cream, milk, mint extract and green food coloring. The ingredients go into a blender and are whirred together until smooth and creamy.
It’s best to use mint extract for this recipe rather than the more common peppermint extract. The extracts actually have two different flavors, and the plain mint extract will get you closer to the taste of the McDonald’s shake.
I recommend using whole milk in this shake for the creamiest result. You can use other types of milk, but the shakes may be a little thinner. I use 10 drops of green food coloring to get a very vibrant green color. If you’re using a concentrated food coloring gel rather than the liquid, you’ll need 3-4 drops to achieve the same result.
The best way to top a Shamrock Shake is with a swirl of whipped cream, some festive sprinkles and a cherry! If you can find some green straws, that’s even better!
If you’re more of a chocolate mint fan, you can add a drizzle of chocolate syrup to the mix for a different flavor combination. Regardless of how you serve it, this Shamrock Shake is sure to be a big hit!
More refreshing drink recipes
- Watermelon Agua Fresca
- Tropical Smoothie
- Mixed Berry Smoothie
- Raspberry Limeade
- Pineapple Coconut Smoothie
Shamrock Shake
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 10 drops green food coloring
- 1/4 teaspoon mint extract
- whipped cream, sprinkles and cherries for serving
Instructions
- Place the ice cream, milk, food coloring and mint extract in a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into two glasses. Top with whipped cream, sprinkles and cherries, then serve.
Charlene says
The grandchildren just loved these!
Shamrock Shake lover says
Delicious! Can i make this recipe ahead of time and leave in fridge? If so, how many days in advance? Would love to make for my child’s birthday party!
Sara says
Since it’s ice cream it would be better to store in the freezer and thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving!