As the holiday season approaches, there’s a certain warmth that wraps around you, reminiscent of cozy nights by the fireplace. One sip of this Peppermint Milkshake and you’ll feel like a kid again, filled with the magic of winter. Made with creamy vanilla ice cream, rich whole milk, and just the right hint of peppermint, this delightful treat turns an ordinary day into a festive celebration.
Perhaps you found yourself craving something sweeter after a particularly hectic week, or you simply want to impress your family with a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With only five simple ingredients and a blender, you can whip up this indulgent drink in just ten minutes. Each frothy sip is topped with a cloud of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, transforming your kitchen into a winter wonderland. Trust me—this Peppermint Milkshake will make you forget all about fast food!
Why You'll Love This Peppermint Milkshake
- This Peppermint Milkshake is incredibly easy to whip up, taking just ten minutes from start to finish.
- Its rich, creamy flavor perfectly balances the sweetness of vanilla ice cream with the refreshing hint of peppermint, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
- The visual appeal of this milkshake is truly enchanting, especially with a luscious topping of whipped cream and festive crushed candy canes.
- Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will bring smiles to both kids and adults, making your gatherings extra special.
Peppermint Milkshake Ingredients
• Delight in the simple yet flavorful components that make this classic drink unforgettable!
For the Shake
- Vanilla ice cream – Blends beautifully with the milk to create a creamy base for your Peppermint Milkshake.
- Whole milk – Use whole milk for a richer texture; you can substitute it with almond milk for a lighter option.
- Pure peppermint extract – A little goes a long way; adjust to your taste for that perfect minty kick.
For the Topping
- Whipped cream – Essential for that indulgent finish; opt for homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- Crushed candy canes – Adds a festive crunch and extra flavor; you can use chocolate shavings for a twist!
How to Make Peppermint Milkshake
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Gather ingredients. Start by collecting all your ingredients: vanilla ice cream, whole milk, peppermint extract, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes. This makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
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Blend the shake. In a blender, combine 2 cups of ice cream, 1 cup of whole milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Blend until smooth and creamy, ensuring everything is well mixed for a delightful consistency.
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Taste and adjust. After blending, taste your Peppermint Milkshake. If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, feel free to add a bit more peppermint extract and blend again to incorporate it.
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Pour and garnish. Carefully pour the shake into glasses, filling them with that luscious, frothy mixture. Top generously with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for that festive flair.
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Serve immediately. Enjoy your Peppermint Milkshake right away, ideally with colorful straws for a fun touch that enhances your sipping experience.
Optional: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra decadent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Milkshakes are fantastic for meal prep, making it easier to whip up a festive treat whenever the craving hits! You can prepare the milkshake mixture (the ice cream, milk, and peppermint extract) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply blend the ingredients as usual, then store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to serve, just give it a quick stir and pour into glasses before topping with whipped cream and crushed candy canes. This way, your Peppermint Milkshake will be just as delicious, saving you precious time on busy days and ensuring you can enjoy this delightful holiday drink at a moment’s notice!
Peppermint Milkshake Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Peppermint Milkshake; let your taste buds lead the way!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute vanilla ice cream and whole milk with coconut milk ice cream and almond milk for a delicious vegan version.
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Chocolate Mint: Add 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup to the blender before blending for a delicious chocolatey twist that pairs wonderfully with peppermint.
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Extra Crunch: Use crushed Oreos instead of candy canes for a delightful texture and a touch of chocolate flavor. Each slurp will be a fun surprise!
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Mint Chocolate Chip: Swap out vanilla ice cream for mint chocolate chip ice cream for an even bolder minty flavor, ensuring each sip is perfectly refreshing.
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Spiked Shake: For an adult twist, add 1 ounce of peppermint schnapps to the blender, giving your Peppermint Milkshake a festive kick that warms your spirits.
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Coffee Version: Blend in a shot of espresso or cold brew coffee for a delightful coffee-flavored Peppermint Milkshake that’s invigorating and sweet.
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Nutty Flavor: Add a tablespoon of almond or hazelnut extract to the shake for an unexpected nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess.
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Fruity Bliss: Mix in fresh strawberries or raspberries while blending for a fruity addition that provides a beautiful contrast to the minty creaminess. Enjoy the delightful pop of freshness!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Milkshake
Fridge: Store any leftover Peppermint Milkshake in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. However, the texture may change, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the milkshake in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving, or blend again for a smoother consistency.
Reheating: While milshakes are best enjoyed cold, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before remaking its creamy texture.
Serving Tip: Always give your Peppermint Milkshake a quick stir or blend after storage to revive its delightful creamy consistency!
What to Serve with Peppermint Milkshake?
As you indulge in this festive frosty treat, consider these delightful pairings to create a well-rounded meal.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: The gooey sweetness of warm cookies perfectly complements the refreshing coolness of your Peppermint Milkshake, creating a delightful taste contrast.
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Homemade Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies add a delicious depth of flavor. Their chocolatey goodness pairs beautifully with the minty freshness!
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Festive Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright, fresh note that balances out the creaminess of the shake, refreshing your palate.
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Mini Cheesecakes: Creamy mini cheesecakes add a luxurious texture and can be flavored with mint or chocolate for a delightful harmony with the milkshake.
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Popcorn Bar: Set up a DIY popcorn bar with assorted toppings. The savory crunch becomes an exciting contrast against the sweet, cold treat.
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Hot Cocoa: For a cohesive, cozy experience, pair your Peppermint Milkshake with a steaming cup of rich hot cocoa, amplifying that holiday spirit.
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Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices of gingerbread are a nostalgic nod to the season, making for lovely bites that enhance the milkshake’s festive flavor.
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Coffee or Espresso: A smooth coffee or espresso can cut through the sweetness of the milkshake while adding a rich layer of flavor, making for an enjoyable indulgence.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best Peppermint Milkshake, make sure your vanilla ice cream is slightly softened before blending to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- Avoid over-blending, as this can cause the shake to become too thin; blend just until smooth.
- When adjusting the peppermint extract, remember that it’s always easier to add more than to fix an overly strong mint flavor.
- Serve the milkshake immediately after preparation to ensure it maintains its frosty consistency and enjoy it with a colorful straw for that extra festive touch.
Peppermint Milkshake Recipe FAQs
What type of vanilla ice cream is best for a Peppermint Milkshake?
I recommend using a high-quality vanilla ice cream, as it enhances the creaminess of your milkshake. Look for brands that use real vanilla extract for a richer flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a seasonal flavor like peppermint bark for an extra twist!
How long can I store leftover Peppermint Milkshake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the shake may lose some of its texture, but you can revive it by giving it a good stir or blending it again before serving.
Can I freeze my Peppermint Milkshake?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Peppermint Milkshake in a sealed container for up to 1 month. To enjoy, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw for a few hours. If it seems too thick when you’re ready to serve, just pop it back in the blender for a smooth consistency.
What should I do if my milkshake is too thin?
If your Peppermint Milkshake ends up too thin, try adding more ice cream a scoop at a time and blend until you reach your desired thickness. Alternatively, you can blend in a handful of ice for that extra frosty texture.
Is this recipe safe for people with dairy allergies?
This Peppermint Milkshake contains dairy. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the vanilla ice cream with a non-dairy variety and substitute whole milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk. Always check labels for any other allergens!
How can I make this treat pet-friendly?
While this delightful Peppermint Milkshake is not suitable for pets due to dairy and sugar content, you can make a pet-friendly version! Blend together some unsweetened coconut yogurt with a banana and a small amount of peppermint essence (ensure it’s pet-safe). Just remember to not serve any ingredients containing sugar or chocolate!
Peppermint Milkshake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all ingredients: vanilla ice cream, whole milk, peppermint extract, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes.
- In a blender, combine 2 cups of ice cream, 1 cup of whole milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Taste your Peppermint Milkshake and add more peppermint extract if a stronger mint flavor is desired.
- Pour the shake into glasses, top generously with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.
- Serve immediately for best results.
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