The Shamrock Shake from McDonald's features a smooth blend of mint-flavored vanilla soft serve topped with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry, delivering a refreshing and festive green treat with a creamy, sweet taste.
Equipments
- Blender or milkshake machine
- Soft serve ice cream machine
- Measuring cup
- Ice cream scoop
- Whipped cream dispenser or can
- Spoon or spatula
- Serving cup
- Straw
- Maraschino cherry jar
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon mint extract
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 4 drops green food coloring
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherry
Use mint extract sparingly to achieve the desired mint flavor without overpowering the vanilla base. Whole milk ensures the shake remains creamy and smooth, while green food coloring adds the iconic festive hue; adjust drops carefully for your preferred shade. Fresh whipped cream topped with a maraschino cherry provides the classic Shamrock Shake presentation you expect. Measuring ingredients precisely guarantees consistent taste and texture. Your homemade Shamrock Shake from McDonald's copycat menu offers a deliciously refreshing twist on this seasonal favorite.
Instructions
- Add 2 cups vanilla ice cream, 1 1/4 cups whole milk, 1/4 teaspoon mint extract, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 4 drops green food coloring into the blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the shake into a serving cup.
- Top with whipped cream.
- Place a maraschino cherry on top.
- Insert straw and serve.
Substitution
Making a Shamrock Shake copycat at home allows you to adjust sweetness and mint intensity according to your preference. If fresh mint extract is unavailable, peppermint extract can be used, but reduce quantity as it is stronger. Whole milk can be substituted with 2% milk or a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk for a lighter or vegan option, though texture may vary. To achieve the vibrant green color without artificial food coloring, try using natural alternatives such as spinach juice or matcha powder, but be mindful they may affect the flavor slightly. Your blender or milkshake machine should be powerful enough to blend the ice cream and milk smoothly for the best creamy consistency.
Tips
Keep your blender or milkshake machine clean and ready to avoid any off flavors affecting your Shamrock Shake. Measuring your ingredients precisely ensures the perfect balance of mint and sweetness in every sip. Use whole milk for the creamiest texture that mimics the restaurant-quality shake you're aiming for. Don't skip the green food coloring if you want that iconic vibrant Shamrock Shake look that sets it apart visually.
Nutritions
The Shamrock Shake contains approximately 530 calories, with a significant portion coming from sugars and fats found in vanilla ice cream and whole milk. Mint extract adds flavor without additional calories, while the sugar and whipped cream contribute to the shake's sweet profile. This shake provides a moderate amount of calcium and some protein from dairy but is high in saturated fat and added sugars. You can enjoy this festive treat occasionally, keeping portion size and nutritional content in mind.
Storage
Store your Shamrock Shake in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and prevent ice crystals from forming. Keep it in the freezer at a consistent temperature, ideally around 0degF (-18degC), for optimal freshness. When ready to enjoy, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment with fresh mint leaves instead of mint extract to give your Shamrock Shake a more natural and vibrant flavor. Swap whole milk with almond or oat milk if you prefer a dairy-free option that still maintains a creamy texture. For a richer taste, substitute vanilla ice cream with peppermint or chocolate mint ice cream. Try blending in a small handful of spinach along with the food coloring to enhance the green color and add a subtle nutritional boost without altering the sweet taste.
Allergies
The Shamrock Shake contains common allergens such as milk and cream, which may trigger reactions in individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The whipped cream and vanilla ice cream both include dairy ingredients that can cause symptoms like hives, swelling, or digestive issues in sensitive individuals. If you have a known allergy to dairy, it's important to avoid this dessert or seek allergen-free alternatives.
Why this recipe?
The Shamrock Shake from McDonald's is celebrated for its creamy texture, refreshing mint flavor, and vibrant green color that evokes a festive St. Patrick's Day spirit. Fans appreciate how the shake balances sweetness with a hint of coolness, making it a seasonal favorite that's highly Instagrammable and nostalgic. Creating a copycat version allows you to enjoy this iconic treat at your convenience, customizing sweetness and ingredients to suit your taste while capturing the shake's unique charm. Experimenting with your own Shamrock Shake recipe can bring the McDonald's experience straight to your kitchen, making it worth the effort.