Ready in: 15 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Blending · Storage: Up to 2 days in the freezer.
Quick Answer
Blend fresh strawberries, vanilla ice cream, and milk for a creamy Strawberry Milkshake that's perfect for holiday gatherings!
As we step into the vibrant season of late fall in New York City, the holiday spirit begins to bloom. While there are many flavors I associate with this time of year, the sweet, creamy delight of a Strawberry Milkshake is a nostalgic treat that offers a refreshing contrast to all those seasonal spices. This shake is not only a delightful treat but also makes for a fun way to indulge guests during Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. Plus, it's incredibly easy to whip up!
A Festive Treat for the Holidays
This delightful Strawberry Milkshake is the perfect addition to your holiday festivities, bringing joy and a touch of nostalgia to every sip.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It's a nostalgic treat that evokes joyful memories of childhood.
- Perfect for gathering celebrations during the holiday season.
- Easy and quick to prepare, making it a stress-free addition to your menu.
- Refreshing contrast to typical seasonal flavors, delighting everyone.
- Customizable with flavors to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
This Strawberry Milkshake recipe features fresh, simple ingredients.
Fresh Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of strawberries)
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream (preferably high-quality, artisanal)
- 1 cup whole milk (for that rich, creamy texture)
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Fresh strawberries, for garnish
How to Make Strawberry Milkshake (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a creamy and delicious Strawberry Milkshake.
Step 1: Prep the Strawberries
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the strawberries to macerate, releasing their natural juices and creating a syrupy base that enhances the milkshake.
Step 2: Blend
In your trusty blender, add the macerated strawberries, vanilla ice cream, and whole milk. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. You'll know it's ready when it turns a beautiful blush pink and the aroma of fresh strawberries fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Serve
Pour the milkshake into chilled glasses. Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream and garnish with whole strawberries. Serve immediately while it's frosty and fresh to preserve that luxurious texture!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-Blending: Blend just until smooth to avoid turning the shake into a thin liquid.
- Skipping the Sugar for Tart Strawberries: If your strawberries are sour, don't skip the sugar to balance flavors.
- Using Cold Milk Directly from the Fridge: Let your milk sit out for a few minutes for a creamier texture.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with flavors by adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract.
- For a healthier option, substitute half of the ice cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Serve early in the day or as a whimsical dessert to delight both children and adults.
Variations
- Use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for a thicker shake.
- Try different ice cream flavors, such as strawberry or chocolate.
- Add a tablespoon of nut butter for extra creaminess and flavor.
How to Serve
- Pour into chilled glasses for a frosty experience.
- Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
- Garnish with whole strawberries for a beautiful presentation.
- Serve immediately while frosty and fresh.
For more delightful recipes, check out my Simple Garlic Roasted Green Beans.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the strawberry mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge.
- Storage: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Not applicable, best enjoyed cold.
- Freezing: Leftover milkshake may lose some creaminess; stir before serving again.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
This simple Strawberry Milkshake reminds me of my childhood, effortlessly transporting me back to sunny days in the park with friends. It's a fun recipe that brings joy not just in its taste, but in the memories it evokes, making it perfect for celebrating with friends and family this season.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 milkshake
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~300 calories · 5g protein · 45g carbs · 10g fat
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but they may result in a slightly different texture. If using frozen strawberries, you may want to let them thaw a bit before blending to achieve a creamier consistency.
How can I make my milkshake thicker?
To make a thicker milkshake, reduce the amount of milk used or add more ice cream. Alternatively, you can also blend in a few ice cubes for that extra thickness.
Is there a dairy-free option for this milkshake?
Absolutely! You can substitute the whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free milk. For the ice cream, opt for a dairy-free ice cream alternative made from coconut, almond, or cashew milk.
