A creamy, minty twist on the classic Shamrock Shake–the same green, mint-flavored milkshake made better with high-quality vanilla ice cream and optional Oreo cookies blended right in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how fast this shake comes together—just about 5 minutes from start to finish. Using real scooped ice cream gives it a luxurious texture. Peppermint extract adds a gentle, fresh mint flavor that isn’t too sharp, and green food coloring makes it that eye-catching St. Patrick’s Day green. Plus, if I’m in the mood, I toss in Oreos for an indulgent twist.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
3 cups vanilla ice cream, softened
-
½ cup whole milk
-
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
-
10 drops green food coloring
-
whipped cream, for topping
-
maraschino cherries, optional garnish
-
mini chocolate chips, optional
-
Oreo option: about 8–10 Oreos, if making Oreo Shamrock Shakes
directions
-
Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften.
-
In my blender, I pour in milk first, then scoop in the ice cream, add peppermint extract and food coloring.
-
Blend on low until combined, then increase to high until smooth. I stop to scrape down the sides if needed.
-
If it looks too thin, I add more ice cream; too thick, I add more milk. For more mint flavor, I add drops of peppermint extract carefully.
-
To make Oreo Shamrock Shakes, I add 8–10 whole Oreos before blending for that cookies-and-cream version.
-
I pour into 3 glasses and top each with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. Mini chocolate chips make it extra festive.
Servings and timing
-
Yield: 3 shakes
-
Prep time: ~5 minutes
-
Total time: ~5 minutes
Variations
-
Oreo version: Blend in whole Oreos with the ice cream for an indulgent cookies-and-cream mint shake.
-
Adjust thickness: Add more ice cream for thicker shakes, or more milk for a thinner consistency.
-
Mint intensity: Peppermint extract is powerful—add a drop or two at a time until it’s just right.
-
Garnishes: Aside from whipped cream and cherries, mini chocolate chips on top add texture and flair.
storage/reheating
-
Storage: These shakes are best enjoyed right away. I don’t recommend storing them—they lose texture and airiness, and refreezing leads to ice crystals.
-
Leftovers: If I accidentally make extra, I sip them quickly—no storage needed!
FAQs
What makes this different from the McDonald’s Shamrock Shake?
I use high-quality vanilla ice cream instead of soft-serve, peppermint extract instead of mint syrup, and full-fat milk for a richer, more luxurious texture.
How much peppermint extract should I add?
I start with ½ teaspoon and taste before adding more. Peppermint is strong—too much can taste like toothpaste—so I add a drop at a time if I want more punch.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—substitute dairy-free vanilla ice cream and use almond or oat milk. Make sure any Oreos or mix-ins are also dairy-free.
How do I get that vibrant green color?
Ten drops of green food coloring gives that bright St. Patrick’s Day hue. I adjust up or down depending on how intense I want it.
Can I make just one shake instead of three?
Absolutely. Just scale down ingredients proportionally: 1 cup ice cream, a few tablespoons of milk, ~⅙ tsp peppermint, and adjust food coloring accordingly.
Conclusion
These Oreo Shamrock Shakes are my go-to easy, festive treat. They’re ready in just minutes, creamy and minty, and with the extra Oreo mix-in, it’s like a dessert and drink in one. I love them for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations—or anytime I’m craving something bright and refreshing. Let me know if you give them a whirl!
Print
Oreo Shamrock Shakes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
A minty‑chocolate indulgence that blends creamy green ice cream with crushed Oreo cookies—perfect for a festive treat any time of year.
Ingredients
2 cups vanilla ice cream
½ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
5 drops green food coloring (optional, for festive color)
4 Oreo cookies, coarsely chopped
Whipped cream, for topping
Crushed Oreo crumbs, for garnish
Instructions
In a blender, combine vanilla ice cream, milk, peppermint extract, and green food coloring. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Add chopped Oreo cookies and pulse gently a few times, leaving some cookie chunks for texture.
Pour the shake into tall glasses, leaving a little room on top.
Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed Oreo crumbs.
Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy the mint-chocolate goodness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
