Mint Chocolate Chip Shake

The blender was already whirring before I realized I'd forgotten the straws—again. My cousin Sarah and I were eleven, standing on tiptoes to reach the counter, convinced we could recreate the milkshakes from the corner drugstore. The mint extract bottle felt like something from a laboratory, and we definitely overdid it, but that first electric sip made everything smell like Christmas in July.

Last summer, my neighbor's kids burst in after running through sprinklers, faces flushed and demanding something cold. I made these milkshakes on autopilot—ice cream slamming into the blender, that distinctive sharp scent of peppermint hitting the air. They sat at my kitchen island, swinging their legs and racing to see whose straw would hit empty first, chocolate mustaches and all.

Ingredients

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Use a premium brand here—cheap ice cream has too much air and your shake will taste watery instead of luxuriously thick
• Whole Milk: Creates that perfect diner consistency, though any milk works in a pinch
• Peppermint Extract: This stuff is potent, so measure carefully—a quarter teaspoon too much turns your milkshake into mouthwash
• Chocolate Chips: Mini chips distribute more evenly, but chopped regular chunks give you those satisfying bigger bites
• Whipped Cream: Homemade or store-bought both work, but I love how the cold cream slowly melts into the shake underneath

Instructions

Gather Everything First:

Set up your glasses, straws, and toppings before you start blending—milkshakes wait for no one and melt fast

Dump and Blend:

Toss everything except the whipped cream and garnishes into your blender and pulse until combined but still thick, with those visible flecks of chocolate

The Texture Check:

Stick a spoon in—if it stands up straight, you're perfect, but add a splash more milk if it's too thick to pull through a straw

Pour and Crown:

Divide between your tallest glasses, then pile whipped cream on top like you mean it

Finish with Flair:

Sprinkle with extra chocolate chips and tuck in a fresh mint leaf if you're feeling fancy

Serve Immediately:

Hand out straws and spoons—the spoon is nonnegotiable for getting every last bit of whipped cream

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My grandmother kept a special set of milkshake glasses in the back of her highest cabinet, brought out only for the most worthy occasions. Now whenever I pull mine down, I can practically hear her telling us to slow down and savor, even as she winked and slid across extra whipped cream when nobody was looking.

Making It Thicker or Thinner

I've learned that everyone seems to have a different milkshake viscosity preference. The trick is adjusting your milk ratio rather than adding more ice cream, which can make things overly sweet and heavy.

The Color Question

Some people really need that classic green tint to feel like they're drinking a proper mint shake. I've made peace with the natural off-white color—it tastes exactly the same, and honestly, no food coloring ever made anything taste better.

Beyond the Basic Shake

Once you master this recipe, you'll start seeing milkshake potential everywhere. I've added crushed Thin Mints, swirled in hot fudge, even thrown in a scoop of chocolate ice cream for a mint chocolate chip situation that'll ruin you for all other shakes.

• Freeze your glasses for 10 minutes beforehand to keep everything colder longer
• Dark chocolate chips taste way better than milk chocolate in this—trust me
• A tiny pinch of salt makes all the flavors pop like they should

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There's something about sitting on the back porch with an ice-cold mint milkshake that makes even the hottest summer afternoon feel like a gift. Hope this one brings you as many good moments as it's brought me.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make this shake thicker or thinner?

Adjust the amount of milk: use less milk for a thicker shake or add more milk for a thinner consistency.

→ Can I substitute dairy ingredients for a vegan option?

Yes, replace vanilla ice cream with plant-based alternatives and use non-dairy milk to keep it vegan-friendly.

→ What is the best way to incorporate chocolate chips?

Blend chocolate chips just enough to keep some texture, avoiding a fully smooth mix to enjoy bursts of chocolate.

→ Is peppermint extract essential for the flavor?

Peppermint extract provides the refreshing mint note, but you can adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.

→ How should I garnish for best presentation?

Top with whipped cream, sprinkle extra chocolate chips or shavings, and add a fresh mint leaf for visual appeal and aroma.

→ What tools are recommended for preparation?

Using a blender ensures smooth mixing; tall glasses, straws, and spoons enhance serving and enjoyment.