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shamrock shake recipe

Shamrock Shake Recipe (Copycat)

A homemade copycat version of McDonald's iconic minty green Shamrock Shake that you can make anytime. Creamy, refreshing, and customizable to your taste preferences.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Servings: 2 large shakes
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

For the Base Shake
  • 3 cups premium vanilla ice cream slightly softened
  • 1 cup whole milk substitute with 2% for a lighter version
  • 0.25 teaspoon pure peppermint extract not mint extract, which can taste like toothpaste
  • 8-10 drops green food coloring natural food coloring works well too
  • 0.125 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance the creaminess
For the Whipped Cream Topping
  • 0.5 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
  • 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish
  • green sprinkles optional
  • 1 maraschino cherry optional
  • chocolate syrup drizzle optional
  • crushed Andes mints optional
  • 1 fresh mint leaf optional

Equipment

  • cocktail shaker or mason jar
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
  1. Measure all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth process. Let your ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly—this makes blending easier while still maintaining a thick consistency. Chill your serving glasses in the freezer for 15-30 minutes before making your shake to keep it colder longer.
Step 2: Blend The Base
  1. Add the vanilla ice cream, milk, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and green food coloring to your blender. Start with 8 drops of food coloring and adjust as needed to achieve that iconic bright green color. Pulse the ingredients 3-4 times before blending on low speed to prevent over-mixing. Aim for a thick, spoonable consistency.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
  1. Before pouring, taste a small amount of your shake. Adjust flavors if needed: if too thick, add a splash more milk; if not minty enough, add a tiny drop more peppermint extract (be careful—it's potent!); if you want a more vibrant green, add 1-2 more drops of food coloring. The real McDonald's shamrock shake has a subtle mint flavor that doesn't overwhelm, so use less extract when in doubt.
Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream
  1. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until it begins to thicken. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until soft peaks form. For the fluffiest whipped cream, chill your bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes before whipping.
Step 5: Assemble Your Shamrock Shake
  1. Pour your green shake mixture into chilled glasses, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Add a generous dollop of the freshly whipped cream and finish with your choice of garnishes. For an authentic McDonald's look, use a piping bag with a star tip to create a perfect whipped cream swirl on top.