Pin This This refreshing milkshake blends creamy vanilla ice cream and whole milk with pure mint extract for a cool, invigorating flavor. The smooth texture is enhanced by a swirl of whipped cream and topped with a bright maraschino cherry, making it an ideal treat for warm weather or festive occasions. Adjust sweetness or mint intensity to preference and serve chilled for best enjoyment.
The air conditioning had broken down during the hottest July of my childhood, and my grandmother rescued us with mint milkshakes that made us forget we were melting. She'd line up the fancy glasses she usually saved for holidays, her secret trick being that she chilled them in the freezer first. Something about that ritual transformed a simple drink into an event worth waiting for.
Last summer I made these for my nieces when they were complaining about the heatwave, and watching their eyes light up at that first sip took me right back to my grandmother's kitchen. They fought over who got to lick the whipped cream off the top first, exactly like we did.
Ingredients
- Vanilla ice cream: Use a good quality brand here since it's the foundation of everything
- Whole milk: Creates that perfect creamy consistency that makes milkshakes feel special
- Pure mint extract: This little bottle is magical and lasts forever in your pantry
- Sugar: Most ice cream is sweet enough but some brands need a tiny boost
- Green food coloring: Completely optional but somehow makes it taste more like mint
- Whipped cream: The crowning glory that nobody skips
- Maraschino cherries: That cheerful red stem peeking out makes everyone smile
Instructions
- Get everything ready:
- Pull the ice cream out about five minutes ahead so it softens slightly
- Blend it up:
- Combine everything except the garnishes and blend until completely smooth
- Taste as you go:
- Take a tiny sip with a spoon to see if you need more mint or sweetness
- Pour with style:
- Divide between your chilled glasses and watch how beautifully it settles
- Finish with flair:
- Swirl that whipped cream high and place the cherry right on top like a crown
Pin This My neighbor texted me at 10pm last month begging for this recipe after her teenager declared it better than any drive-thru shake.
Making It Your Own
Once you master the basic version, try swapping vanilla ice cream for chocolate or adding a splash of chocolate syrup for that restaurant style mint chocolate chip experience.
Serving Suggestions
These work beautifully alongside brownies or cookies for dessert, or serve them as a fun afternoon surprise during summer break.
Make Ahead Tips
Milkshakes don't sit well so make them right before serving time for the best texture and temperature.
- Chill your glasses in the freezer for at least 20 minutes
- Pre-measure all your ingredients into a bowl so blending is fast
- Keep the whipped cream and cherries ready on a small tray
Pin This Sometimes the simplest treats create the longest-lasting memories.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of mint extract works best?
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Pure mint extract is ideal for a fresh, balanced flavor. Peppermint extract can be used for a sharper taste but should be added gradually due to its potency.
- → Can I use different ice cream flavors?
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Vanilla ice cream is the base, but swapping it for chocolate can create a delicious mint-chocolate variation.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
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Replace vanilla ice cream and milk with plant-based alternatives to suit vegan or lactose-free preferences.
- → Is the green food coloring necessary?
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Green food coloring is optional and used solely for visual effect; it does not impact the flavor.
- → How do I adjust the mint intensity?
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Add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of mint extract to strengthen the mint flavor, adjusting to taste.
