Copycat Shamrock Shake
Description of this recipe
The Copycat Shamrock Shake is a delightful, creamy, and refreshing mint-flavored treat that captures the essence of the beloved seasonal shake from McDonald’s. With its vibrant green color and rich vanilla ice cream base, this homemade version is not only easy to make but also customizable to your taste preferences. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any day you crave a minty indulgence, this shake is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe because it allows you to recreate a classic favorite in the comfort of your own home. It’s incredibly simple, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Plus, you can adjust the mint flavor and sweetness to your liking, making it a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. The addition of whipped cream, green sugar, and maraschino cherries makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing, perfect for parties or celebrations.
Introduction
As the days get longer and the air begins to warm, many of us start to think about the joys of spring. One of the most iconic symbols of this season is the Shamrock Shake, a sweet minty beverage that has become a staple at McDonald’s during March. However, you don’t have to wait for the restaurant to serve it to enjoy this creamy delight. With this Copycat Shamrock Shake recipe, you can whip up your own version in just five minutes! This recipe is perfect for those who want to indulge in a nostalgic treat without leaving home. So grab your blender and let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 6 cups vanilla ice cream (1.5 quart container)
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 tsp pure mint extract (make sure to use mint, not peppermint)
- 1/8 tsp green food coloring (approximately 10-15 drops of liquid food coloring)
- Whipped cream (for serving)
- Green sanding or sparkling sugar (for serving)
- Maraschino cherries (for serving)

Preparation:
Step 1: Gather all your ingredients. Ensure your ice cream is slightly softened for easier blending; let it sit out for about 5 minutes if necessary.
Step 2: In a large blender, add the vanilla ice cream, whole milk, mint extract, and green food coloring. If your blender is not large enough, you may need to do this in batches.
Step 3: Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy. This should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute. If the shake is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Once blended, pour the shake into serving glasses. The vibrant green color should be eye-catching and inviting!
Step 5: Top each glass with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of green sanding sugar, and a maraschino cherry for that perfect finishing touch.
COOKING Rating:
5 out of 5 stars
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Copycat Shamrock Shake immediately for the best experience. It pairs wonderfully with a slice of chocolate cake or some homemade cookies for a delightful dessert spread. For a fun twist, consider making a milkshake bar where guests can customize their shakes with various toppings like crushed Oreos, chocolate syrup, or even a splash of chocolate milk.
Tips:
- If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of mint extract to your taste.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the vanilla ice cream with a dairy-free alternative and use almond or oat milk.
- You can also experiment with different colors of food coloring to create a unique twist on the classic shake.
- If you want to make this shake even more decadent, consider adding a scoop of chocolate ice cream for a mint chocolate version.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 312
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific brands of ingredients used.)
Conclusion
The Copycat Shamrock Shake is a fun, easy, and delicious way to bring a taste of spring into your home any time of year. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy this creamy minty treat that rivals the original. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this shake is sure to be a hit. So gather your loved ones, blend up a batch, and enjoy the festive flavors of this delightful homemade shake!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use a different type of ice cream?
Yes, you can use any flavor of ice cream you like! However, vanilla is recommended for the classic Shamrock Shake flavor. - Is there a way to make this shake healthier?
You can reduce the amount of ice cream and increase the milk for a lighter version. Additionally, using a low-calorie sweetener instead of sugar can help lower the calorie count. - How long can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftover shake, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best consumed within a few days to maintain its texture. - Can I make this shake without a blender?
A blender is the easiest way to achieve a smooth consistency, but if you don’t have one, you can use a whisk to mix the ingredients together vigorously, though it may not be as smooth. - What can I use instead of mint extract?
If you don’t have mint extract, you can use peppermint extract, but be cautious as it has a stronger flavor. Adjust the quantity to taste.

Copycat Shamrock Shake
Ingredients
- 6 cups vanilla ice cream 1.5 quart container
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 tsp pure mint extract make sure to use mint, not peppermint
- 1/8 tsp green food coloring approximately 10-15 drops of liquid food coloring
- Whipped cream for serving
- Green sanding or sparkling sugar for serving
- Maraschino cherries for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Gather all your ingredients. Ensure your ice cream is slightly softened for easier blending; let it sit out for about 5 minutes if necessary.
- Step 2: In a large blender, add the vanilla ice cream, whole milk, mint extract, and green food coloring. If your blender is not large enough, you may need to do this in batches.
- Step 3: Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy. This should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute. If the shake is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Step 4: Once blended, pour the shake into serving glasses. The vibrant green color should be eye-catching and inviting!
- Step 5: Top each glass with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of green sanding sugar, and a maraschino cherry for that perfect finishing touch.