This Copycat Shamrock Shake is the ultimate festive treat—cool, creamy, and full of nostalgic minty flavor. Made with real vanilla ice cream and a splash of mint extract, it’s everything you love about the McD’s classic but even better (and ready in five minutes at home).
Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving a fun dessert, this bright green milkshake is the perfect way to sip something festive!
Why my Shamrock Shake is the one to blend
There are a lot of copycat Shamrock Shake recipes out there—but this one is the real deal. I’ve tested the ratios to get that signature flavor just right (hint: it’s all about the mint extract, not peppermint), and I don’t mess around when it comes to texture.
This shake is rich, velvety, perfectly minty—and honestly better than the original because you’re using real ice cream, not a machine blend. Here’s what makes my version worth blending:
- The flavor is spot-on: I use just enough mint to make it fresh and nostalgic, without tipping into toothpaste territory.
- The texture is thick and creamy—thanks to real-deal premium ice cream and just the right splash of whole milk.
- You can make it as over-the-top (or as simple) as you want: Chocolate syrup swirl? Cherry on top? Go for it. Or skip the extras and keep it classic.
Printable recipe
Copycat Shamrock Shake
Ingredients
- 2 cups premium vanilla ice cream
- ⅔ cup whole milk (adjust if needed)
- ¼ teaspoon mint extract (or more to taste; NOT peppermint if you want the most authentic taste)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8-9 drops green food coloring
- chocolate syrup (for glass drizzle, optional)
- whipped cream, green decorator sugar and/or sprinkles, maraschino cherries ((optional for garnish))
Instructions
- Blend the shake: In a blender, combine the ice cream, milk, mint extract, vanilla extract, and green food coloring. Blend until smooth and creamy.Too thick? Add a splash of milk. Too thin? Blend in another scoop of ice cream or a few ice cubes.2 cups premium vanilla ice cream, ⅔ cup whole milk, ¼ teaspoon mint extract, ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract, 8-9 drops green food coloring
- Decorate glasses (optional) and pour: Drizzle chocolate syrup around the inside of two tall glasses, if desired. Divide the shake between glasses.chocolate syrup
- Serve and garnish: Top with whipped cream, green sugar or sprinkles, and a maraschino cherry if using. Serve immediately and enjoy!whipped cream, green decorator sugar and/or sprinkles, maraschino cherries
Secrets to the perfect Shamrock Shake at home
- Start with good ice cream: The better the ice cream, the better your shake. Use a premium vanilla brand for that rich, creamy texture.
- Don’t overdo the mint: Use mint extract (not peppermint!) for that true flavor. A little goes a long way.
- Adjust the consistency: If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk. Too thin? Add another scoop of ice cream or a few ice cubes.
- Top it like you mean it: Whipped cream, green sprinkles, chocolate drizzle, cherry on top… go wild or keep it classic.
What you’ll need to shake things up
This homemade Shamrock Shake is as easy as it gets—and you probably already have most of what you need.
Here are a few quick notes on the key ingredients I always keep an eye on:
- Vanilla ice cream: Go for a premium, rich, full-fat version—this is where most of the creaminess comes from, so the better the ice cream, the better the shake.
- Whole milk: I always use whole milk for the best texture. You can swap in 2% if that’s what you have, but the shake won’t be quite as thick.
- Mint extract: This one matters! Look for pure mint extract—not peppermint. Peppermint has a sharper, more candy cane flavor, while mint gives that classic fast-food-style taste.
- Green food coloring: 8–9 drops is the sweet spot for that classic color. You can use gel or liquid. If you want a natural option, a tiny bit of matcha works—but the flavor will be slightly different.
Fun twists
- Add Oreos for a “mint cookies and cream” shake.
- Blend in chocolate syrup for a Thin Mint-style twist.
- Spike it for the grown-ups with a splash of Irish cream or crème de menthe (for the over-21 crowd).
Shamrock Shake FAQs (read this before blending!)
Yes! Use a dairy-free vanilla ice cream (like coconut or almond-based) and unsweetened almond or oat milk. Make sure they’re creamy to match the texture.
Use less—start with ⅛ teaspoon and taste before adding more. It will be more candy cane-like, not quite like the original.
Totally! The shake will look more vanilla than green, but still taste great. For a natural green hue, try a pinch of matcha or spinach powder; or just blend in a handful of spinach 😉
Add more ice cream to thicken, or a splash of milk to thin it out. Ice cubes also work if you want it cold and frosty but not too rich.
💬 Did you try my recipe?
I’d love to hear how your Shamrock Shake turned out! Leave a comment and a star rating below if you tried it—your feedback makes my day and helps other readers, too.
📌 Save this recipe
This easy Copycat Shamrock Shake is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day—or any time you’re craving a festive treat. Pin the recipe now so it’s ready when you are!
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