There's something undeniably refreshing about a chilly treat on a warm day, is there not? Picture this: the sound of ice being blended into creamy perfection, the vibrant green flecks of crushed peppermint candy swirling within, and that first sip delivering a burst of cool sweetness. That's exactly what you get with my rich and indulgent Peppermint Milkshake.
This delightful concoction is a quick, five-minute escape from mundane weeknight desserts or fast food runs, easily crafted with just a handful of simple ingredients. Whether you're treating yourself after a long day, surprising the kids, or even hosting friends, this milkshake brings a festive cheer that feels decadent but requires hardly any effort. Get ready to blend up nostalgia and joy in one delicious glass!
Why You'll Love This Peppermint Milkshake
- This Peppermint Milkshake is incredibly easy to make, taking just five minutes from start to finish.
- The bold flavor of peppermint combined with creamy vanilla ice cream creates a refreshing and indulgent treat that will delight your taste buds.
- Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy night in or a festive gathering with friends.
- Plus, the visual appeal of vibrant green peppermint flecks topped with whipped cream is sure to impress everyone you serve it to.
Peppermint Milkshake Ingredients
For the Milkshake
• Vanilla ice cream – a rich base that gives the milkshake its creamy texture and sweetness.
• Milk – helps achieve the perfect consistency; feel free to use whole or almond milk for a twist.
• Peppermint extract – a little goes a long way in delivering that refreshing minty flavor; don't overdo it!
• Crushed peppermint candies – adds delightful crunch and a pop of color; perfect for garnishing!
For Topping
• Whipped cream – adds a light and fluffy finish; consider homemade for an extra special touch.
With these simple ingredients, you can whip up a delightful Peppermint Milkshake that's sure to bring joy to every sip!
How to Make Peppermint Milkshake
-
Blend Ingredients: Start by adding the vanilla ice cream, milk, peppermint extract, and crushed peppermint candies into a blender. This is the foundation of your refreshing milkshake!
-
Mix Until Smooth: Blend all the ingredients on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You’re looking for a luscious texture that’s easy to pour!
-
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker milkshake, add a little more ice cream. For a thinner shake, incorporate additional milk gradually until you reach your desired thickness.
-
Serve and Garnish: Pour the milkshake into your favorite glasses, then generously top with whipped cream. For a festive touch, sprinkle extra crushed peppermint candies on top!
Optional: Enjoy your milkshake with a festive straw for extra flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Milkshake
Fridge: Store any leftover milkshake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, it's best enjoyed fresh due to the inevitable separation of ingredients.
Freezer: For a longer-term solution, pour the milkshake into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before blending again if it becomes too solid.
Reheating: If you’ve stored it in the freezer, warm it up slightly at room temperature before re-blending, or add a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Serving Fresh: Always serve your Peppermint Milkshake immediately to enjoy the full flavors and textures that make this treat so delightful!
Peppermint Milkshake Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists that will make your Peppermint Milkshake even more special!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute the vanilla ice cream and milk with coconut or almond-based alternatives for a refreshing vegan version. You'll still enjoy the creamy delight without the dairy!
-
Chocolate Peppermint: Add 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup to the blender for a rich, chocolatey flavor that pairs beautifully with the mint. It’s like a dessert you didn’t know you needed!
-
Mint Chocolate Chip: Swap vanilla ice cream for mint chocolate chip ice cream for a flavor-packed treat that’s bursting with minty goodness and chocolatey bites. This variation is a dreamy indulgence!
-
Extra Crunch: Use crushed Oreos instead of peppermint candies for a different crunch and flavor profile. It combines the classic mint taste with a chocolatey twist that’s simply irresistible.
-
Spicy Peppermint: For those who love a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tiny splash of hot sauce. This unexpected heat contrasts deliciously with the coolness of the shake!
-
Cookie Crumble: Crumble in some thin mint cookies for an extra layer of flavor and texture. It turns your milkshake into a milkshake masterpiece that will impress everyone!
-
Fruit Fusion: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale to sneak in some healthy greens! Don’t worry – the flavor is still minty, and the color is a fun, vibrant green.
-
Fruity Twist: Blend in a half banana or a handful of berries for a fruity version. This addition supports a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens up your milkshake!
Each of these variations will give your Peppermint Milkshake a distinctive flair, ensuring that every sip is a delightful surprise!
What to Serve with Peppermint Milkshake?
When you're indulging in the delightful chill of a peppermint milkshake, why not round out the experience with delicious accompaniments that enhance each sip?
-
Chocolate Chip Cookies: These warm, gooey cookies offer a delightful contrast to the cold milkshake, making each bite a cozy delight.
-
Brownie Bites: Fudgy brownies add rich chocolate notes that complement the refreshing mint flavor beautifully, creating a specific harmony of tastes.
-
Fruit Salad: A mix of juicy berries and crisp apples introduces a fresh burst of sweetness, lightening up the indulgence for balance.
-
Popcorn: Lightly salted popcorn provides a fun crunch, enhancing the texture experience while the sweetness of the milkshake shines through.
-
Mini Cheesecakes: Their creamy richness pairs exquisitely with the cool mintiness of the milkshake, offering an elegant touch that feels indulgent.
-
Spiced Hot Chocolate: A warm drink with similar flavor notes heightens the overall experience, creating a comforting and festive vibe that lingers.
-
Mint Chocolate Cupcakes: These delicious treats echo the peppermint flavor, making for a delightful combo that feels utterly decadent.
-
Chocolate Drizzle Brownies: Topping brownies with a chocolate drizzle brings an exciting twist to the classic dessert, amplifying the milkshake’s sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Milkshakes are perfect for busy home cooks who love to prepare desserts in advance! You can blend the ice cream, milk, peppermint extract, and crushed peppermint candies up to 24 hours ahead and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. When you're ready to serve, simply blend the mixture again for a few seconds to reinvigorate its smoothness, then pour into glasses and top with whipped cream. This makes meal prep a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect consistency in your Peppermint Milkshake, use whole milk for a creamier texture or almond milk for a lighter version.
- Be careful not to overdo the peppermint extract, as it can overpower the flavor; start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
- For a deliciously thick milkshake, add an extra scoop of ice cream while blending.
- Always serve your milkshake immediately after blending to maintain its ideal creaminess and freshness.
Peppermint Milkshake Recipe FAQs
What type of vanilla ice cream should I use for the Peppermint Milkshake?
Absolutely, using high-quality vanilla ice cream will enhance the creaminess and flavor of your peppermint milkshake. Look for ice cream with natural ingredients—those that use real vanilla extract will offer a richer taste. But feel free to experiment with different brands and styles; if you’re in the mood for something unique, vanilla bean or even mint chocolate chip can add an interesting twist!
How should I store leftover Peppermint Milkshake?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, I must say!), store the milkshake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Just keep in mind that it may separate, so give it a good stir before sipping. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
Can I freeze Peppermint Milkshake for later?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your peppermint milkshake! To do this, pour the shake into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top as it will expand. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. When you're ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge and blend again with a splash of milk for that creamy consistency!
What should I do if my Peppermint Milkshake is too thin or too thick?
No worries! If your milkshake turns out too thin, simply add in more ice cream, blending until you reach the desired consistency. Alternatively, if it’s too thick for your liking, add a little extra milk gradually and blend again. The more the merrier! Adjusting the ingredients to your taste is all part of the fun in making this delicious treat.
Can pets have peppermint milkshake?
While a little vanilla ice cream is generally considered safe for dogs in moderation, it's important to note that peppermint is not suitable for pets. The extract can be particularly strong and may upset their digestive systems. Always keep your treats to yourself! If you're looking to share something special, consider making a dog-friendly smoothie with yogurt and peanut butter instead.
Peppermint Milkshake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by adding the vanilla ice cream, milk, peppermint extract, and crushed peppermint candies into a blender.
- Blend all the ingredients on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- If you prefer a thicker milkshake, add a little more ice cream. For a thinner shake, incorporate additional milk gradually until you reach your desired thickness.
- Pour the milkshake into your favorite glasses, then generously top with whipped cream. Sprinkle extra crushed peppermint candies on top!
Leave a Reply