two glasses of bright green shamrock shake topped with whipped cream and sprinkles, with a cherry on top
Introduction
You don’t need a special season to make a Shamrock Shake Copycat at home. When you want something cold, creamy, and minty, this is the fastest way to get there.
The trick is keeping the ingredient list simple: vanilla ice cream, milk, and a tiny splash of mint extract. That’s it. Blend it smooth, top it like you mean it, and suddenly your kitchen feels like a dessert shop.
This Shamrock Shake Copycat is a total crowd-pleaser for kids, parties, and cozy weekends. And yes—people will ask for the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Shamrock Shake Copycat
- Better than takeout: Fresh, thick, and made exactly how you like it.
- 5-minute recipe: Blend, pour, and enjoy.
- Perfect mint flavor: Easy to control so it’s not toothpaste-y.
- Fun for parties: Top with whipped topping, sprinkles, and a cherry.
- Easy to customize: Make it extra thick or slightly lighter.
- Kid-friendly treat: A sweet, simple dessert drink everyone loves.
Ingredients for Shamrock Shake Copycat
- Vanilla ice cream (2 cups): The thick, creamy base. Use a good one for best flavor.
- Whole milk (3/4 cup): Helps it blend. Substitute: 2% or your favorite milk.
- Mint extract (1/4 teaspoon): A little goes a long way—start small and add more only if you want.
- Green food coloring (about 10 drops): Optional, but fun.
- Toppings: whipped topping, sprinkles, and cherries.
Shamrock Shake Copycat Recipe
- 1. Add vanilla ice cream and milk to a blender.
- 2. Drop in mint extract and a few drops of green food coloring.
- 3. Blend for 30–45 seconds until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.
- 4. Pour into 2 glasses.
- 5. Top with whipped topping, sprinkles, and a cherry. Serve right away.
Tips for the Best Shamrock Shake Copycat
- Start with less mint extract—you can always add more.
- For a thicker shake, use slightly less milk or add more ice cream.
- Chill the glasses for 10 minutes for a frosty, extra-cold treat.
- Blend just until smooth so it stays thick and creamy.
- If your ice cream is rock-hard, let it sit 3–5 minutes before blending.
Variations & Substitutions
- Chocolate-mint: Add 1–2 tablespoons chocolate syrup before blending.
- Protein boost: Blend in 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (texture will change).
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free ice cream and plant milk.
- Extra festive: Add crushed chocolate sandwich cookies on top.
- “Adult” twist: Add a splash of peppermint-flavored liqueur (for adults only).
Storing & Reheating
Shamrock shakes are best fresh. If you must store it, freeze in a cup for up to 1 week, then let it soften for 10–15 minutes and stir.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Serve with cookies or brownies for a full dessert moment.
- Great for St. Patrick’s Day parties or movie nights.
- Pair with salty snacks like pretzels for sweet-salty balance.
Reader Review: “This tastes exactly like the classic shake, but even creamier. My kids went nuts for it!”
Shamrock Shake Copycat Recipe Card
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 minute
Total Time: 6 minutes
Yield: 2 shakes
Category: Beverage
Method: Blending
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 10 drops green food coloring (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon mint extract
- whipped topping, sprinkles, and cherries for serving
Instructions
- 1. Add ice cream, milk, food coloring, and mint extract to a blender.
- 2. Blend until smooth.
- 3. Pour into 2 glasses, top, and serve.
If you try it, comment below—do you like it super minty, or just a gentle hint?