As the first hints of winter start to blanket the landscape, there’s a rush of nostalgia that sweeps over me. The delightful chill in the air inspires cozy evenings and indulgent treats—like a creamy Peppermint Milkshake that whirls vivid memories of holiday celebrations. Imagine the sweet aroma of peppermint mingling with rich vanilla ice cream, evoking childhood joys of festive gatherings and laughter.
This simple recipe is perfect for those moments when you crave something special at home, far removed from the confines of fast food. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a deliciously refreshing shake bursting with flavor and charm, elevating your next movie night or family treat into something truly magical. Don’t be surprised if this delightful concoction becomes a seasonal favorite that you’ll revisit year after year. So grab your blender, and let’s dive into a minty escape that promises to make your taste buds dance with joy!
Why You'll Love This Peppermint Milkshake
- This Peppermint Milkshake is incredibly easy to make, taking just 10 minutes from start to finish, which means you can enjoy it without any hassle.
- The delightful combination of creamy vanilla ice cream and refreshing peppermint extract creates a flavor explosion that is both nostalgic and indulgent.
- Its versatility allows you to customize with toppings like crushed candy canes or chocolate syrup, making it perfect for any occasion.
- The stunning presentation with whipped cream and vibrant garnishes makes it a visual treat that will impress anyone you serve it to.
Peppermint Milkshake Ingredients
Get ready to create a creamy delight!
For the Shake
- Vanilla ice cream – A must for that rich, creamy base that blends beautifully with peppermint.
- Milk – Adjust the type of milk to your preference; whole milk creates a rich shake, while almond or oat milk works for a dairy-free version.
- Peppermint extract – Just a splash to infuse your Peppermint Milkshake with refreshing minty goodness.
For Toppings
- Whipped cream – A fluffy crown on this shake that adds sweetness and elegance.
- Chocolate syrup – Drizzle this for a lovely chocolate contrast to the minty flavor.
- Crushed candy canes – Perfect for a festive touch and that satisfying crunch with every sip!
Whether it’s a movie night or a special treat, these ingredients come together effortlessly to create a Peppermint Milkshake that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds!
How to Make Peppermint Milkshake
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Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine 2 cups of vanilla ice cream, 1 cup of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Blend until smooth and creamy, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Prepare Glasses: Drizzle chocolate syrup inside your serving glasses. This adds a touch of decadence and makes each sip visually enticing.
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Pour Shake: Carefully pour the creamy milkshake into the prepared glasses. Fill them generously to showcase the delightful minty goodness within.
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Add Toppings: Top each milkshake with 1/4 cup of fluffy whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed candy canes for that perfect festive crunch.
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Serve Immediately: Present your Peppermint Milkshake right away for the best flavor and texture. Watch as everyone delights in your homemade creation!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of chocolate flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Peppermint Milkshake?
Indulging in a Peppermint Milkshake calls for delightful pairings that enhance its sweet, minty essence and create a memorable meal experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies:
Their warm, gooey chocolate complements the coolness of the milkshake, making for a contrast of temperatures and textures that feels indulgent. -
Mini Cheesecakes:
Light and creamy with a hint of tang, they offer a perfect counterbalance to the rich, sweet milkshake, enhancing every bite. -
Spiced Nuts:
The crunch and warmth of spiced nuts add an exciting texture and savory flavor that cuts through the milkshake’s sweetness beautifully. -
Fruit Skewers:
Fresh, juicy fruits like strawberries or pineapple provide a refreshing contrast, brightening each sip and bite with a burst of natural sweetness. -
Chocolate Fondue:
Perfect for dipping, the melted chocolate paired with fruits or marshmallows makes this a fun, interactive dessert experience alongside the milkshake. -
Minty Mojitos:
This refreshing drink echoes the peppermint notes of your shake, creating a harmonious sip that enhances the overall minty experience.
Adding these curated pairings will not only elevate your Peppermint Milkshake but also create an unforgettable seasonal feast that brings joy to every gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Milkshake
Fridge: Store any leftover Peppermint Milkshake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again to reincorporate the ingredients.
Freezer: If freezing, place the milkshake in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and it can be kept for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: While this milkshake is best enjoyed cold, if you’d like to warm it slightly, avoid microwaving directly; instead, let it sit at room temperature for a while before gently stirring.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Milkshakes are a fantastic treat you can prepare ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings! You can blend the milkshake mixture (2 cups of vanilla ice cream, 1 cup of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain its texture and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, take the mixture out and pour it into prepared glasses drizzled with chocolate syrup, then top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes. This approach not only saves time but also brings festive fun to your gatherings with just minimal effort on your part. Enjoy these delightful Peppermint Milkshakes, knowing they are just as delicious when prepped ahead!
Peppermint Milkshake Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this Peppermint Milkshake uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Swap vanilla ice cream for coconut or almond milk ice cream to create a lighter version that everyone can enjoy.
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Chocolate Peppermint: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup into the blender for a delightful chocolate twist that perfectly complements the mint.
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Minty Matcha: Replace the peppermint extract with 1 teaspoon of matcha powder for an earthy flavor and a vibrant green hue.
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Oreo Crunch: Blend in a few crushed Oreo cookies for a cookies-and-cream peppermint experience that provides a chocolatey crunch in every sip.
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Extra Creamy: Use heavy cream instead of milk to create an indulgently thick and luscious shake that’s truly decadent.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or mix in a splash of ginger syrup to give your milkshake a warm, spicy finish that will surprise and delight.
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Fruit Infusion: Blend in fresh berries or a banana for a fruity spin; the natural sweetness adds a delightful dimension to the classic mint flavor.
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Alcoholic Treat: For an adult twist, drizzle in a shot of peppermint schnapps or Irish cream liqueur for an extra fun holiday treat that will warm you up!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use high-quality vanilla ice cream for your Peppermint Milkshake to ensure a rich and creamy texture.
- When blending, start with a lower speed to combine the ingredients before ramping up to create a smooth consistency.
- If you find your milkshake too thick, gradually add more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- For the best presentation, chill your glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before drizzling with chocolate syrup.
Peppermint Milkshake Recipe FAQs
What type of milk should I use for the Peppermint Milkshake?
Absolutely! You can use whole milk for a rich and creamy texture, but feel free to switch it up with almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free option. The flavor will still be delightful!
How do I store leftover Peppermint Milkshake?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again to bring back that creamy consistency.
Can I freeze the Peppermint Milkshake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, pour the milkshake into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for it to expand. It will keep for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and stir well before serving.
What if my Peppermint Milkshake is too thick?
Very! If you find that your milkshake is too thick for your liking, just add a splash of milk and blend again until you achieve the desired consistency. Start with a little and adjust as needed for the perfect creamy shake.
Is this Peppermint Milkshake safe for kids or those with allergies?
This Peppermint Milkshake is generally safe for everyone, but always check labels for allergens. If you’re serving it to kids, be mindful of the peppermint extract’s strength—just a hint goes a long way, so adjust to taste. For those with dairy allergies, opt for a plant-based milk and vegan whipped cream to make it allergen-friendly!
Equipment
- blender
- Serving Glasses
Ingredients
For the Shake
- 2 cups Vanilla ice cream A must for that rich, creamy base.
- 1 cup Milk Adjust type to preference; whole, almond, or oat milk.
- 1/2 teaspoon Peppermint extract Infuse with refreshing minty goodness.
For Toppings
- 1/4 cup Whipped cream Fluffy crown adding sweetness.
- Chocolate syrup Drizzle for a lovely chocolate contrast.
- Crushed candy canes Perfect for a festive touch.
Instructions
How to Make Peppermint Milkshake
- In a blender, combine 2 cups of vanilla ice cream, 1 cup of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle chocolate syrup inside your serving glasses.
- Carefully pour the creamy milkshake into the prepared glasses.
- Top each milkshake with 1/4 cup of fluffy whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
- Present your Peppermint Milkshake right away for the best flavor and texture.
