Vanilla Milkshake

By Amelia MapstoneJun 26, 2024Jump to Recipe

A Wholesome Spin on a Creamy Classic

Did you know the term “milkshake” was originally used in 1885 to describe an alcoholic whiskey drink made with cream and eggs? 🤯 Since then, of course, it has come to mean the sweet, creamy dessert drink we all know and love.

With only three ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and share with family and friends. It can also be used as a base for other flavors, such as chocolate or strawberry. You can even swirl in some homemade cookie dough or sprinkles if you’re feeling festive. This milkshake is satisfying, frothy, and unlike its historical origin: child-friendly. Plus, since the recipe is so simple, it can be easily changed to suit specific dietary needs…

Is Vanilla Milkshake Healthy?

On its own, this milkshake might not be considered the healthiest option for a breakfast or snack, but it makes a delicious dessert. Getting high-quality ingredients such as homemade ice cream and local whole milk can ensure that, in moderation, this sweet treat can be sipped responsibly.

For a dairy-free option, try using oat milk and plant-based ice cream instead.

If dairy isn’t a problem for you, but you’re seeking to spike the protein content, make this Cottage Cheese Ice Cream and use that as a base instead. That way, you can ensure the ingredients are natural, and that the whole dish is made with love.

The Fresher, the Better

The best way to amplify both the healthiness and flavor of your milkshake is by using the freshest ingredients. Try using scraped seeds from 1/2 a vanilla bean instead of just extract. Ask a local dairy farmer for their best cream or milk, and experiment with goat or even buffalo milk (if accessible in your area). Lastly, consider using cacao nibs instead of sprinkles, or fresh cherries instead of frozen. Whole, fresh foods make any dessert sweeter in more ways than one!

INGREDIENTS

3 scoops vanilla ice cream
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine

Blend ice cream, milk, and vanilla.

Blend

Achieve a smooth consistency.

Serve

Enjoy your classic milkshake.

Devour!

FAQs & Tips

How to Make Ahead and Store?

You can keep the milkshake in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days, but be mindful that it will melt. It can stay fresh in the freezer (stored away from the door) for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours before re-mixing and serving it. Overall, this dessert is best had fresh, immediately after it’s made. If you have any extra, feel free to share with friends and family!

How to maintain creamy Consistency?

Making a milkshake this good means being mindful of the chemistry. How the ingredients blend together matters. So, to keep that dreamy cream texture, make sure not to over blend, and never add ice; or else it will become thin and watery. We also recommend freezing the glasses beforehand so it doesn’t melt too quickly once served.
If you’re adding any mix-ins like sprinkles or chocolate swirls, add them in last after the base has been blended.

Is it better than McDonald’s?

While this milkshake recipe is wholesome and easy to make, a McDonald’s milkshake on the other hand is made with additives like corn syrup and carrageenan, which can disrupt the digestive system by creating inflammation. This recipe will taste better and feel better in body and mind.

Serving Suggestions

Aside from the toppings and mix-ins previously mentioned, we recommend serving this marvelous milkshake with homemade french fries for that classic diner feel.

Alternatively, you could pair it with the best banana waffles. This is especially fun for a child’s birthday brunch or a festive family breakfast.

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