Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Fruity: Utilizes fresh strawberries for an authentic, vibrant flavor.
- Creamy Texture: The combination of vanilla ice cream and milk creates a rich, smooth consistency.
- Quick and Easy: Requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in just a few minutes.
- Customizable: Easily adjustable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
- ½ pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 2 heaping tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream
- ½ cup milk
- Whole strawberries, for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Rinse and hull the strawberries, then cut them in half. Set aside a few whole strawberries for garnish if desired.
- Macerate the Strawberries: In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with sugar and vanilla extract. Let them sit for at least 20 minutes to soften and release their juices.
- Blend the Ingredients: Transfer the softened strawberries to a blender. Add the vanilla ice cream and half of the milk. Blend on medium speed for 30-60 seconds until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve: Pour the milkshake into tall glasses, garnish with whole strawberries if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 2 servings.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 5 minutes.
- Maceration Time: At least 20 minutes.
- Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Variations
- Healthier Option: Substitute vanilla ice cream with frozen yogurt or a frozen banana, and use almond milk instead of whole milk for a lighter version.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free ice cream and plant-based milk to make the milkshake vegan-friendly.
- Additional Flavors: Add a handful of blueberries or a banana to the blender for a mixed fruit milkshake.
- Chocolate Twist: Drizzle chocolate syrup into the glass before pouring the milkshake for a chocolate-covered strawberry flavor.
Storage/Reheating
This strawberry milkshake is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavor. If you need to store it, place it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 day. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften, then stir well.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries may result in a thicker consistency, similar to a smoothie. You might need to add a bit more milk to achieve your desired texture.
How can I make the milkshake thicker?
To achieve a thicker consistency, use less milk or add more ice cream. You can also add a frozen banana to enhance thickness and add natural sweetness.
Is it necessary to macerate the strawberries?
Macerating the strawberries with sugar and vanilla extract helps to soften them and release their natural juices, enhancing the flavor of the milkshake. While it's not strictly necessary, it is recommended for the best taste.
Can I make this milkshake without ice cream?
Yes, you can make a strawberry milkshake without ice cream by blending milk, frozen strawberries, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth. This will result in a lighter, less creamy beverage.
Whole milk provides a rich and creamy texture, but you can use any milk of your choice, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk, depending on your dietary preferences.
How can I reduce the sweetness of the milkshake?
To make the milkshake less sweet, use unsweetened strawberries and opt for a lower-sugar ice cream or frozen yogurt. You can also reduce or omit the added sugar during the maceration process.
Can I prepare the milkshake in advance?
It's best to enjoy the milkshake immediately after preparation. If necessary, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the freezer for up to 1 day. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving and stir well.
What toppings go well with a strawberry milkshake?
Whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of strawberry or chocolate syrup make excellent toppings for this milkshake.
How can I make the milkshake healthier?
To make a healthier version, use low-fat or plant-based milk, substitute ice cream with frozen yogurt or a frozen banana, and reduce or omit the added sugar. You can also add a handful of
Fresh Strawberry Milkshake
- Total Time: 25minutes
- Yield: 2 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade Strawberry Milkshake is rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor! Made with real strawberries, vanilla ice cream, and a touch of vanilla extract, it’s the perfect refreshing treat. Easily customizable for a vegan or healthier option, this classic milkshake is ready in just minutes!
Ingredients
- ½ pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 2 heaping tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream
- ½ cup milk
- Whole strawberries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Rinse, hull, and halve the strawberries. Set aside whole strawberries for garnish if desired.
- Macerate the Strawberries: In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with sugar and vanilla extract. Let them sit for at least 20 minutes to release their natural juices.
- Blend the Ingredients: Transfer the softened strawberries to a blender. Add vanilla ice cream and half of the milk. Blend on medium speed for 30-60 seconds until smooth. If too thick, add more milk.
- Serve: Pour into tall glasses, garnish with whole strawberries, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For a healthier version, swap ice cream for frozen yogurt or a frozen banana and use almond milk.
- For a vegan option, use dairy-free ice cream and plant-based milk.
- Enhance the flavor by adding blueberries, bananas, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Store leftovers in the freezer for up to 1 day; let sit at room temperature and stir before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: American
