A Creamy, Minty, St. Patrick’s Day Favorite!
Nothing says St. Patrick’s Day like a cool, creamy, and minty Shamrock Shake! This homemade version of the McDonald’s classic is just as thick, sweet, and refreshing, with a beautiful green color and a hint of vanilla.
I love this recipe because it’s super easy to make at home, requires only a few ingredients, and tastes even better than the original! Whether you’re celebrating March 17th or just craving a mint-chocolate treat, this shake will hit the spot!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I make this without food coloring?
Yes! You can skip it, or use natural green coloring like matcha powder or spinach juice for a subtle tint.
Q: What type of ice cream works best?
Use premium vanilla ice cream for the creamiest texture. If you prefer dairy-free, go for coconut or almond milk-based ice cream.
Q: Can I make this without mint extract?
Yes! You can use peppermint extract instead, but use less (about ¼ teaspoon) since it’s stronger.
Q: How do I make it extra thick?
Use less milk and blend longer for a thicker consistency. You can also add a few ice cubes or an extra scoop of ice cream.
Q: Can I make this into an adult version?
Absolutely! Add a splash of Baileys Irish Cream, crème de menthe, or vanilla vodka for a boozy twist.
What You Need to Make a Shamrock Shake
Ingredients:
- 3 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- ½ teaspoon mint extract (or ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract)
- 4-5 drops green food coloring
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Crushed mint cookies or chocolate shavings (optional)
How to Make a Shamrock Shake
Step 1: Blend the Shake
- In a blender, combine vanilla ice cream, milk, mint extract, and green food coloring.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Adjust Consistency
- If the shake is too thick, add a little more milk and blend again.
- If too thin, add another scoop of ice cream.
Step 3: Serve & Garnish
- Pour into two tall glasses.
- Top with whipped cream, a cherry, and crushed cookies or chocolate shavings.
Step 4: Enjoy!
- Serve immediately with a thick straw and enjoy the minty goodness!
Tips for the Best Shamrock Shake
✔ Use high-quality ice cream – The creamier the ice cream, the better the shake!
✔ Chill the glasses first – This helps keep the shake cold longer.
✔ Want extra flavor? – Add a dash of vanilla extract or blend in a handful of crushed mint cookies.
✔ Make it dairy-free – Use coconut, almond, or oat milk and vegan vanilla ice cream.
✔ For a chocolate-mint twist – Blend in a handful of chocolate chips or cocoa powder!
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “Tasted EXACTLY like the McDonald’s version! So creamy and minty.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “Easy to make, and I loved adding crushed Oreos on top for a mint-chocolate twist!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “Made this for St. Patrick’s Day, and my kids devoured it!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “I used almond milk and dairy-free ice cream—still turned out amazing!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “Better than the fast-food version! Plus, I love that I can control the sweetness.”
Printable Recipe
Shamrock Shake
This Shamrock Shake is a creamy, minty St. Patrick’s Day treat made with vanilla ice cream, milk, and mint flavoring—better than McDonald's and easy to make at home!
Ingredients
- 3 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- ½ teaspoon mint extract (or ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract)
- 4-5 drops green food coloring
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Crushed mint cookies or chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Shake
- In a blender, combine vanilla ice cream, milk, mint extract, and green food coloring.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Adjust Consistency
- If the shake is too thick, add a little more milk and blend again.
- If too thin, add another scoop of ice cream.
Step 3: Serve & Garnish
- Pour into two tall glasses.
- Top with whipped cream, a cherry, and crushed cookies or chocolate shavings.
Step 4: Enjoy!
- Serve immediately with a thick straw and enjoy the minty goodness!
Check out some of our other recipes / crafts.
Blissful Blueberry Shortcake Cake
Make Delicious Ice Cream in a Bag in Just 15 Minutes
If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved this Shamrock Shake, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it on social media, pin it on Pinterest, or send it to a friend who loves minty treats. I’d love to see your versions—tag me if you try it!
