There’s something undeniably soothing about the combination of Earl Grey tea and delicate lavender—the blend fills the air with a calming aroma that instantly transports me to a sunlit afternoon in a cozy café. Imagine taking that blissful experience and turning it into a delightful treat: the Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake. Whether I’m winding down after a chaotic day or treating friends to something unexpectedly special, this milkshake never fails to impress.
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this creamy concoction, blending the robust notes of tea with sweet vanilla ice cream and a hint of floral lavender. It’s the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue, offering a refreshing and indulgent alternative that captures the essence of homemade goodness. Not only is it easy to make, but it also invites vibrant flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. So, let’s dive in and create a milkshake that’s as enchanting as it is delicious!
Why You'll Love This Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake
- This Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake is incredibly easy to make, requiring just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
- The unique flavor combination of robust Earl Grey tea, creamy vanilla ice cream, and fragrant lavender creates a taste sensation that delights the palate.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the sweetness and thickness to suit your personal preference, ensuring it’s just right for you and your guests.
- Not to mention, the stunning presentation topped with whipped cream makes it a visually appealing drink that will impress anyone you serve it to.
Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake Ingredients
For the Milkshake
• 1 cup strong brewed Earl Grey tea – cool it down entirely before blending for a refreshing finish.
• 0.25 teaspoon culinary dried lavender – choose culinary grade for safe consumption and fragrant flavor.
• 3 cups vanilla ice cream – this creamy base complements the floral notes beautifully.
• 0.5 cup whole milk – adjust this for a thicker or thinner milkshake, depending on your taste.
• 2 tablespoon honey or sugar – sweeten to your liking; honey adds a unique floral touch.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – amplify the sweetness and richness of your Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake.
• 0.25 teaspoon lemon zest (optional) – this adds a fresh, zesty dimension to your drink, enhancing the overall flavor.
How to Make Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake
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Brew a strong cup of Earl Grey tea. Steep it briefly with culinary dried lavender for the best flavor. Once brewed, strain and let it cool completely—this ensures a refreshing base for your shake.
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Combine all ingredients in a blender. Add the cooled tea, vanilla ice cream, whole milk, honey or sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Each ingredient contributes to that unique, creamy goodness!
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Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if desired—aim for a texture that’s rich yet drinkable.
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Serve immediately! Pour the milkshake into chilled glasses for an extra touch. For a little indulgence, consider topping with whipped cream for an eye-catching finish.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of dried lavender for added flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake
Fridge: Keep any leftover Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Give it a good stir before serving to reincorporate the ingredients.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the milkshake, pour it into a freezer-safe container and enjoy within 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before consuming, and mix well to restore its creaminess.
Reheating: While this milkshake is best served cold, if you prefer it warm, gently heat on low heat in a saucepan. Just be cautious to avoid curdling the milk.
Serving: For the best flavor and texture, serve your milkshake fresh after blending, but don’t worry—storing it properly can still keep it delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Earl Grey Lavender Milkshakes are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy days! You can brew and cool the Earl Grey tea with lavender up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to preserve its flavors. Additionally, you can prepare the ice cream and milk mixture (without blending) a day ahead and keep it in a separate bowl in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy your milkshake, simply combine the cooled tea, ice cream, and other ingredients in a blender, then blend until smooth. This preparation ensures you have a delightful treat ready to serve in minutes, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake Variations
Feel free to elevate your milkshake experience with these delightful twists and substitutions that can spark your creativity!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and vanilla ice cream with almond milk and a dairy-free ice cream for a lighter, vegan option. You won't lose any creamy goodness!
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Sweetness Swap: Use maple syrup instead of honey or sugar for a uniquely rich flavor that enhances the lavender’s floral notes. It adds a cozy touch that's simply delightful!
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Flavored Ice Cream: Try swapping vanilla ice cream for lavender or even Earl Grey flavored ice cream to intensify the overarching theme of this beverage. A great way to dive deeper into those beloved flavors!
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Minty Refresh: Add a few mint leaves into the blender for a refreshing twist. This will create an uplifting aroma and taste, perfect for warm afternoons.
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Chocolatey Indulgence: Drizzle some chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring in the shake for a prettily swirled effect that also adds a decadent chocolate twist. Can you say heavenly?
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Nutty Crunch: Top with crushed pistachios or almonds for a delightful textural contrast. This added crunch pairs wonderfully with the creamy shake!
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Frozen Treat: Freeze the milkshake mixture in Popsicle molds for a fun and refreshing summer treat! It’s the perfect way to enjoy your favorite flavors on a hot day.
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Spicy Kick: For the adventurous at heart, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ginger adds a surprising kick to your milkshake. This unexpected heat complements the smooth creaminess.
What to Serve with Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake?
Imagine enjoying this creamy treat while savoring complementary flavors that elevate your dessert experience to delightful new heights.
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Lemon Shortbread Cookies: The buttery crispness and zesty lemon flavor match the floral notes of the milkshake perfectly. Pair these cookies with your milkshake for a sophisticated afternoon tea vibe.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries introduce a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy milkshake texture. Their tartness enhances the sweet floral notes, providing a refreshing balance.
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Chocolate Dipped Biscotti: The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with the aromatic Earl Grey, adding a crunchy texture that's irresistible. Dip the biscotti into your milkshake for an indulgent treat.
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Vanilla Panna Cotta: This silky-smooth dessert adds an elegant touch to your milkshake experience. Its light vanilla flavor will mesh well with the milkshake's ingredients, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink option, its crisp bubbles cleanse the palate between sips of your milkshake. The lemon twist enhances the citrus notes and adds brightness to the pairing.
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Almond Croissants: Their flaky texture and nutty flavor make a delightful match. Enjoy them fresh from the oven to savor the contrast between the buttery croissants and the velvety milkshake.
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Lavender Lemonade: For the adventurous, this floral drink amplifies the lavender in the milkshake, creating a beautifully cohesive flavor theme. Its refreshing taste makes it an elegant companion for warm days.
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Chai Spiced Muffins: The warm spices in these muffins provide a comforting backdrop to the Earl Grey’s delicate notes. They also integrate seamlessly into a cozy afternoon gathering with friends.
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Honey Cake: This sweet, moist cake carries hints of floral sweetness that complement the milkshake’s flavors. Serve slices alongside to celebrate the honey notes shared between the two.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake, be sure to brew your tea strong enough to impart a rich flavor but don’t steep the lavender for too long as it can become bitter.
- If you prefer a thicker milkshake, start with less milk and gradually add until you reach your desired consistency, keeping in mind that the mixture will thin slightly as it blends.
- Use whole milk for a creamier texture, but for a lower fat option, consider using almond milk or oat milk for a lighter taste.
- Serve your milkshake immediately after blending to capture the freshness of the ingredients and enjoy it at its best temperature.
Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right Earl Grey tea for this milkshake?
Absolutely! To select the perfect Earl Grey tea, look for a robust blend that has a strong bergamot flavor. High-quality loose-leaf tea often yields a richer taste compared to bagged options, and it’s usually fresher too. If you're unsure, a reputable brand with good reviews is a great place to start. Remember, this milkshake is all about the tea, so choose one that you genuinely enjoy drinking!
How should I store any leftover milkshake?
Very simply! Place any leftover Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will be good for up to 2 days. Before serving, just give it a thorough stir since the ingredients may separate. If it seems thick, add a splash of milk and stir it well until it's back to the desired consistency.
Can I freeze the Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake?
Certainly! If you want to enjoy this treat later, pour the milkshake into a freezer-safe container and it can be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to indulge again, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. After thawing, blend it briefly to restore its creamy texture, and voilà—you’ve got your delightful treat back!
What should I do if my milkshake is too thick or too thin?
No problem at all! If your Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake turns out too thick for your liking, simply blend in a bit more milk gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Alternatively, if it’s too thin, you can add a scoop of ice cream to thicken it up. This flexibility allows you to tailor the milkshake perfectly to your taste!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! If you're serving this milkshake to guests with dietary restrictions, consider using plant-based milk alternatives such as almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Additionally, ensure the honey used is suitable for those avoiding certain animal products or opt for a vegan sugar alternative. For those with allergies, double-check that the vanilla extract is free of allergens, and always ensure the culinary lavender is marked for safe consumption.
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried lavender?
While you can use fresh lavender, I recommend caution! Fresh lavender tends to have a more potent flavor, so you’ll want to use a smaller amount—about ⅛ teaspoon instead of 0.25 tsp—and steep it for less time to avoid bitterness. Always remember to rinse and dry fresh lavender well before using!
Earl Grey Lavender Milkshake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brew a strong cup of Earl Grey tea, steep briefly with lavender, strain, and let it cool.
- Combine all ingredients in a blender: cooled tea, vanilla ice cream, milk, honey or sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
- Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adjusting with more milk if needed.
- Serve immediately in chilled glasses, and optionally top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of dried lavender.
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