Classic Vanilla Milkshake
Why this recipe works
- Ready in minutes: The milkshake comes together entirely in the blender, with no cooking or advance preparation needed.
- Thick, smooth texture: Vanilla ice cream provides body and richness, while whole milk loosens it just enough to blend smoothly.
- Simple vanilla flavour: A short ingredient list keeps the focus on creamy dairy and clean vanilla notes.
Get the most out of this recipe
Texture tips
- For a thicker shake: Use less milk at first and blend only until the ice cream and milk are just combined.
- For an easier-drinking texture: Add a little more milk and blend briefly, stopping before the shake becomes too loose.
- Do not over-blend: Long blending warms the mixture and can turn a thick milkshake into a thin drink.
Timing notes
- Serve straight away: Milkshakes lose thickness as they sit, so pour and serve as soon as the mixture is smooth.
- Chill the glass if you can: A briefly chilled glass helps keep the shake cold and slows melting at the table.
Ingredient notes
- Whole milk gives the best body: Whole milk keeps the shake creamy without making it overly heavy.
- Use good vanilla ice cream: Because the recipe is so simple, the flavour and texture of the ice cream make a noticeable difference.
- Vanilla extract adds depth: A small amount of extract strengthens the vanilla flavour without changing the classic milkshake character.
Equipment you'll need
Ingredients
Instructions
- If you have time, chill a glass in the freezer for a couple of minutes. Pour the milk into a blender and add the vanilla extract.
- Add the vanilla ice cream and blend for 20 to 40 seconds until thick, smooth and evenly mixed. If it is too thick to blend, add a splash more milk and blend again briefly.
- Pour into the chilled glass and spoon the whipped cream on top. Serve straight away.
Recipe notes
Tips
- For a thicker milkshake, use slightly less whole milk; for a looser shake, add a little more and blend briefly.
- If serving to young children, keep the whipped cream as a small topping so it does not overwhelm the drink.
Substitutions
- Replace vanilla extract with vanilla bean paste for a more intense vanilla flavour.
- Replace whipped cream with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a simpler finish.
Storage
- Best served immediately after blending. If it sits, it will melt and lose its thick texture; re-blend briefly to bring it back together.
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Recipe overview
- Servings: 1 glasses
- Total time: 5min (5min active)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
-
Allergens:
Milk
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