Hey there! Isn’t it fun when you stumble upon a recipe that brings a smile to everyone’s face? That’s exactly what I felt the first time I whipped up this delightful Peppermint Milkshake. With just a few ingredients and hardly any time at all, you can create a sweet treat that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Growing up, my mom always had a knack for turning simple ingredients into something magical, especially during the holidays. I remember cold winter evenings when we’d cozy up in our living room, and Mom would bring out these frosty milkshakes with a hint of peppermint. The combination of the creamy vanilla ice cream and the minty freshness of peppermint was such a hit that it quickly became a tradition.
Now, I make these milkshakes for my own family as a special treat anytime we need a little pick-me-up. What’s great about this recipe is that it’s so straightforward. You don’t need to be a professional chef to make it; trust me, if I can do it, anyone can! Plus, the kids absolutely love helping. It’s the little things like having them crush the candy canes or pour the chocolate chips that make all the difference.
The beauty of this Peppermint Milkshake isn’t just in its simplicity but also in its versatility. Whether you’re serving it up for an after-dinner dessert or enjoying it as an afternoon snack, it always hits the spot. And let’s not forget the joy of seeing everyone’s eyes light up when you serve these; it never gets old!
Are you ready to give it a try? Let me walk you through the steps. I promise, you’ll have a delicious milkshake swirling in no time, and your loved ones will be begging for more!
How to Make Copycat Peppermint Milkshake
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Ingredients
- 2 cups of vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1-2 teaspoons of peppermint extract or 1-2 tablespoons of peppermint Torani syrup (to taste)
- 4 crushed candy canes
- 1/4 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Whipped cream for topping
- Extra crushed candy cane for garnish
Directions
- Begin by placing vanilla ice cream, milk, your choice of peppermint extract or syrup, and the crushed candy canes into a blender.
- Blend on high speed until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Add the chocolate chips and give the mixture a few short pulses, just enough to mix the chips evenly without breaking them down.
- Pour the milkshake into serving glasses, aiming for a smooth, even distribution.
- Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra crushed candy cane for a festive touch.
- Serve immediately and watch it disappear!
- Storing Suggestion
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the freezer. Shake well before serving again, but for best results, enjoy this milkshake freshly made.
Cooking Tips
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk or even half-and-half. Adjust the amount of peppermint to match your taste preference—start small, as it can be strong!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your milkshake with a side of buttery gingerbread cookies for a festive treat. Pairing it with a hot beverage like coffee or tea can also create a delightful contrast of flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of vanilla ice cream, try using chocolate or even mint chocolate chip to add a fun twist. For a dairy-free option, substitute with coconut milk-based ice cream and almond milk.
Seasonal Variations
In summer, swap the peppermint for fresh mint leaves and a hint of lime for a refreshing twist. During fall, add a dash of cinnamon for a warm autumnal note.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and chocolate, which may cause reactions in those with lactose intolerance or chocolate allergies. Substitute with dairy-free ice cream and milk if necessary.
FAQ
Can I use chocolate syrup instead of chocolate chips?
Yes, chocolate syrup can be a great alternative! It’ll add a rich chocolaty flavor and make the milkshake even more velvety. Start with a couple of tablespoons and adjust to your liking.
What type of milk works best for this milkshake?
Whole milk is ideal for a creamy texture, but you can use any milk you prefer, including almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Each type will slightly alter the flavor and consistency.
How do I crush the candy canes easily?
Place the candy canes in a zip-lock bag and gently tap with a rolling pin or mallet. This method helps avoid mess while achieving desired consistency.
Can I prepare the milkshake in advance?
While it’s best to enjoy this milkshake fresh, you can make it an hour ahead and store it in the freezer. Stir it well before serving and avoid adding whipped cream until just before serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients to serve more people. Ensure your blender can handle larger quantities, or make two separate batches to maintain quality.
What’s the best way to serve this at a party?
Pour the milkshake into small decorative glasses or jars for individual servings. Garnish each with whipped cream and a slice of peppermint stick for a festive presentation.
Copycat Peppermint Milkshake
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1-2 teaspoons peppermint extract or 1-2 tablespoons of peppermint Torani syrup (to taste)
- 4 crushed candy canes
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Whipped cream for topping
- Extra crushed candy cane for garnish
Instructions
- First, toss the ice cream, milk, peppermint extract, and crushed candy canes into a blender.
- Blend everything together until it's nice and smooth.
- Next, add in the chocolate chips and give it a quick pulse for a few seconds to mix.
- Pour your delightful shake into glasses, then top it off with a generous amount of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy cane.
