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As February wraps up and we start seeing green everywhere, it’s time to whip up a seasonal treat that has become a minty must-have for many: the Shamrock Shake. I’ve got a super easy, copycat recipe that brings all the creamy, minty goodness of this popular milkshake right into your own kitchen. No need to wait in line at McDonald’s for their Shamrock Shake when you can blend your own with a few simple ingredients.
My first job? McDonald’s! Yes, REALLY! I started working at McDonald’s when I was 15 and continued working there part time throughout high school and college. I don’t want to brag, but I could make a fabulous Big Mac! LOL! In all seriousness, it was a job that taught me many skills and gave me many lasting memories. I certainly remember the excitement every year when the SHAMROCK SHAKE mix arrived on the delivery truck. These shakes have a huge fanbase and I still find myself enjoying one every once in awhile.
These days, I make my shakes at home. It’s surprisingly easy!
Easy Shamrock Shake Recipe
Before we dive into the recipe, make sure you take a look at our extensive St. Patrick’s Day content collection. There are lots of DIY craft tutorials and easy recipes!
Alright, let’s gather our ingredients. This tasty treat is all about the perfect blend of flavor and texture, with a color so vibrantly green, it shouts, “St. Patrick’s Day celebration!”
Scroll down for a printable recipe card.
Copycat McDonald’s shamrock shake
Ingredients
- 2 cups of vanilla ice cream (the base of the dessert)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (for a creamy texture)
- 4 to 6 drops of mint extract
- 2 to 3 drops of green food coloring (for the green coloring) You can use gel food coloring or liquid food coloring – whichever you prefer.
- Whipped cream (for a fluffy topping)
- Green sprinkles
- A cherry (maraschino cherries make the perfect topper!)
Instructions
- Prep Time: This recipe is all about simplicity and speed, with a total time from start to sip being just a few minutes. (You will also want to work quickly so your ice cream doesn’t melt too much!)
- Blend: Place the vanilla ice cream, whole milk, mint extract (peppermint extract works great too, but we used mint for that authentic flavor), and green food coloring into your blender. Hit that blend button and mix until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Pour: Grab your favorite glass and pour in the milkshake.
- Top: Add a generous dollop of whipped cream, a dash of green sprinkles, and don’t forget the cherry on top to complete this frozen treat.
More Tips for Serving
- If you love chocolate, try topping with chocolate syrup or crushed OREO cookies.
- Feel free to adjust the mint flavor by adding more or less mint extract to suit your taste preference.
Easy Shamrock Shake Recipe
Equipment
- 1 blender
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4-6 drops mint extract
- 2-3 drops green food coloring
- whipped cream
- green sprinkles
- cherry
Instructions
- Place the vanilla ice cream, milk, mint extract, and food coloring in the blender.
- Blend all of the ingredients until smooth.
- Pour into a glass.
- Top with whipped cream, sprinkles and a cherry.
- Enjoy!
And there you have it – your very own copycat Shamrock Shake. No need for a trip to McDonald’s for their version. This easy-to-follow recipe brings the minty, creamy flavor of the classic shake right into your home.
Looking to add a 21+ twist? Adults in the crowd can make this into a sweet, boozy treat by adding a shot of Baileys Irish Cream or a splash of vodka. And for our dairy-free friends, swap out the vanilla ice cream and whole milk for coconut milk or any other dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version that’s just as delicious.
Let us know what you think! Tell us how you think the taste and consistency compare to the original. This copycat shamrock shake recipe is sure to become a family favorite! If minty milkshakes are your thing, this one is a clear winner.
