Strawberry Banana Milkshake
This recipe delivers a perfectly creamy, frosty, and flavorful strawberry banana milkshake, just like the kind you'd get at a classic diner.
Equipment
- Blender
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Ice cream scoop
Ingredients
- 1 cup Strawberries fresh or frozen, hulled
- 1 medium Ripe Banana fresh or, preferably, frozen in chunks for thickness
- 3 generous scoops Vanilla Ice Cream about 1.5 cups, good quality recommended
- ¼ to ½ cup Milk whole milk for creaminess; start with ¼ cup
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract optional, enhances flavor
Optional Garnish
- Whipped cream
- fresh strawberry slice
- maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Prep Fruit: If using fresh strawberries, slice them. If using a fresh banana, break it into chunks.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the milk (starting with ¼ cup) to your blender first. Then add fresh fruit (if using), followed by frozen fruit, and finally the ice cream and vanilla extract (if using).
- Blend Until Smooth: Secure the blender lid. Start blending on a low speed for a few seconds to break up larger pieces, then quickly increase to high speed. Blend for 30-60 seconds, or until the milkshake is completely smooth, creamy, and has a consistent, even color. Use the blender's tamper if needed to help ingredients move.
- Adjust Consistency: Check the thickness. If the milkshake is too thick to blend easily or for your liking, add another tablespoon or two of milk and blend very briefly (a few seconds). If it's too thin, add another small scoop of ice cream or a few more pieces of frozen fruit and blend briefly.
- Serve Immediately: Pour into a chilled glass (or glasses). Garnish with whipped cream and a cherry or fresh strawberry slice, if desired. Enjoy right away for the best frosty texture.
Notes
Quick Tips for Success
- Frozen Fruit is Your Friend: Using at least some frozen fruit (especially the banana) is key for a thick, frosty shake without using too much ice, which can dilute the flavor.
- Don't Over-Blend: Blend just until everything is smooth and creamy. Over-blending melts the ice cream due to friction, making the shake thinner and more foamy.
- Quality Ice Cream = Quality Shake: The flavor and fat content of your vanilla ice cream significantly impact the final taste and texture.
- Chill Your Glass: Serving in a pre-chilled glass keeps your milkshake colder and more enjoyable for longer.