This copycat shamrock shake recipe is like finding the pot o’ gold at the end of a rainbow!
Thick and creamy, minty and refreshing, shamrock shakes are as much fun for kids as the grown-ups (boozy shamrock shake, anyone?) plus they cost a lot less “green” to make! You be the judge as to whether this recipe is just as good as the McDonald’s version, or maybe even better!
A Minty Milkshake Treat!
- Why wait for seasonal McDonald’s Shamrock Shakes to come out when you can make a homemade copycat version any time of year with fresh and real ingredients?
- Copycat shamrock shakes are a super fun and easy recipe to make for a party or a sleepover because they only take 4 ingredients and a blender! They’re also extra refreshing on hot summer days!
- Mix and match ingredients to get new milkshake creations every time! Make a minty chocolate shake with chocolate ice cream and chocolate sprinkles on top!
Ingredients and Variations
Dairy: The best shakes are made with real dairy and full-fat ingredients like vanilla ice cream and half-and-half. But for those who can’t do dairy, freeze canned coconut milk into cubes and blend with any dairy-free frozen dessert. This combination has the full flavor and creamy texture of a shake. Opt for a dash of vanilla protein powder for even more vanilla flavor and a nutrition boost!
Green and Minty: Pale green or dark green, either way – there’s no shamrock without a dash of green food coloring! Mint extract is where the magic happens! Start with the amount in this recipe and add more if desired.
Extras: A dollop of whipped cream on the top is the final touch! Green sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or crushed Oreo cookies are delish in a shamrock shake! Got grownups? Then spike shamrock shakes with Bailey’s Irish Cream, Jameson’s Whiskey, or some rum that’ll make those Irish eyes twinkle! Top with a maraschino cherry before serving.
How to make a Shamrock Shake
- Layer the ingredients in the order of the recipe (see recipe card below) in a blender and puree for up to 1 minute.
- Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream before serving.
Tips For The Perfect Milkshake
- Avoid over-mixing the milkshake so the air stays in and the mixture doesn’t get flat and dense.
- Add mix-ins after blending, including alcohol.
- Freeze any leftover shamrock shake into ice cubes and make fresh milkshakes or add them to smoothies!
More Creamy Desserts!
Copycat Shamrock Shake Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream
- ½ cup half and half
- 5 drops mint extract
- 4 drops green food coloring
- whipped cream optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine ice cream, half and half, mint extract and food coloring in a blender and puree for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Pour into glasses.
- Top with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Add any mix-ins after blending.
- Freeze any leftovers into ice cubes to add to fresh milkshakes or smoothies!
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
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Half and Half is commonly used in coffee in the states. It is half heavy cream and half whole milk.
What is half and half please. I’m Australian. This looks great so I would like to try it.