Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive & Fun : Bright green color and boozy twist make it perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- Creamy & Refreshing : Combines the coolness of mint with the decadence of a milkshake.
- Customizable : Adjust the alcohol level or add toppings to suit your taste.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Crowd-Pleasing : Always a hit at parties, brunches, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 2–4
For the Shake:
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup milk (adjust for desired thickness)
- 1/4 cup Irish cream liqueur (like Baileys)
- 1–2 tbsp crème de menthe (green for color and mint flavor)
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (optional, for extra mintiness)
- Green food coloring (optional, for a vibrant hue)
For Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate syrup or fudge sauce
- Green sprinkles or crushed cookies
- Maraschino cherry
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Shake
- In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, Irish cream liqueur, crème de menthe, and peppermint extract (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add a few drops of green food coloring (if desired) and blend again until the shake reaches your desired shade of green.
Step 2: Prepare the Glasses
- Drizzle the inside of each glass with chocolate syrup for a decorative touch.
- Pour the boozy shake into the prepared glasses.
Step 3: Garnish & Serve
- Top each shake generously with whipped cream.
- Drizzle additional chocolate syrup over the whipped cream.
- Sprinkle green sprinkles or crushed cookies on top for a festive flair.
- Finish with a maraschino cherry and serve immediately with straws and spoons.
Why This Recipe Works
- Irish Cream Magic : Adds a rich, creamy texture and subtle sweetness with a hint of whiskey.
- Crème de Menthe Boost : Infuses the shake with bold mint flavor and a pop of green color.
- Peppermint Extract Option : Enhances the minty profile for a more intense flavor.
Variations to Try
- Non-Alcoholic Version : Skip the alcohol and use mint chocolate syrup instead of crème de menthe.
- Dairy-Free Option : Use dairy-free ice cream and coconut milk for a vegan-friendly shake.
- Extra Boozy : Add a shot of vodka or white rum for an even stronger kick.
- Dark Chocolate Twist : Swap the milk chocolate syrup for dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Tips for Success
- Adjust Sweetness : Taste as you go and adjust the amount of crème de menthe or peppermint extract to balance the sweetness.
- Chill the Glass : Place your serving glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before assembling for a frosty touch.
- Storage : This shake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 hour if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- St. Patrick’s Day Special : Serve alongside corned beef and cabbage for a festive meal.
- Romantic Touch : Pair with chocolate-covered strawberries for a sweet date-night dessert.
- Party Platter : Arrange mini versions in shot glasses for a fun, boozy dessert shooter.
Final Thoughts
This Boozy Shamrock Shake is a festive, indulgent treat that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day—or any day you’re craving something minty, creamy, and just a little tipsy. With its vibrant color, rich flavors, and customizable options, it’s sure to be the star of your dessert spread.
Your turn! Have you ever made a boozy milkshake before? Share your favorite flavor combinations or St. Patrick’s Day recipes below. 🍀