There’s a certain joy that fills the air when you take the first sip of a peppermint ice cream milkshake, especially when it’s homemade! Picture this: a creamy blend of velvety whipped cream, sweetened condensed milk, and festive peppermint, all coming together to form a delightful treat that rivals anything from the local diner. After one particularly chilly evening, I found myself craving something that would warm my spirit and delight my taste buds. Into the kitchen I went, armed with candy canes and my trusty blender.
What I created was not just a drink but a celebration of flavor that promises to bring a smile to anyone lucky enough to indulge. This no-churn peppermint ice cream milkshake is super easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just treating yourself after a long day, each swirl of this milkshake encapsulates the magic of winter in a glass. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this deliciously refreshing experience together!
Why is Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshake a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The refreshing blend of peppermint and creamy goodness creates a delightful explosion of taste that’s hard to resist.
No Churn Needed: With simple ingredients and zero churning, this treat comes together easily, making it perfect for novice and seasoned cooks alike.
Festive Touch: Decorate with crushed candy canes for a holiday-inspired twist, bringing cheer to any occasion or cozy night in.
Quick Prep Time: In just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll be on your way to serving up smile-inducing milkshakes that feel like a luxurious dessert.
Crowd-Pleasing: This milkshake is sure to impress friends and family, making it a standout addition to your entertaining repertoire.
Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshake Ingredients
For the Base
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream – Whip this until soft peaks form for the perfect fluffy texture.
• 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk – This adds a rich sweetness that balances the peppermint flavor beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon pure peppermint extract – Use high-quality extract for the best minty punch in your milkshake.
• 2 scoops No Churn Peppermint Ice Cream – This adds creaminess without any need for churning, enhancing that peppermint ice cream flavor.
For the Blend
• ½ cup milk – This helps achieve the desired smooth and creamy consistency for your milkshake.
• ½ tablespoon pure vanilla extract – A touch of vanilla complements the mint, bringing warmth to the flavor profile.
For the Toppings
• ¾ cup candy cane pieces, ground up finely – Sprinkle these on top to add a festive crunch and extra holiday spirit.
• Candy cane pieces for decoration – Use whole candy canes for that beautiful finishing touch on your glasses.
• Sweetened whipped cream for serving – A dollop of whipped cream makes the perfect luxurious finish to each glass.
Get ready to create the ultimate peppermint ice cream milkshake that your family and friends will adore!
How to Make Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshake
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Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Using a hand mixer, whip slowly at first, then increase speed until soft peaks form, approximately 3-5 minutes.
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Mix the Base: In another bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk with the peppermint extract and finely ground candy cane pieces. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
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Fold Together: Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream; you want to keep it fluffy!
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Freeze the Mixture: Pour the combined ice cream mixture into a loaf pan. Sprinkle with additional candy cane pieces for a festive touch. Cover and freeze overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Blend the Ingredients: The next day, scoop the frozen ice cream into your blender. Measure in the milk and vanilla extract. Blend until creamy and smooth, aiming for a luscious texture.
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Serve and Enjoy: Pour your delightful milkshake into glasses, and top generously with sweetened whipped cream and extra candy cane pieces. Enjoy immediately for the best flavors!
Optional: Garnish with a whole candy cane for a whimsical finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshake?
Indulging in a peppermint ice cream milkshake feels like a cozy hug for your taste buds. Let’s build the perfect meal around this delightful dessert!
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Warm Chocolate Brownies: Their fudgy texture balances well with the creamy milkshake, offering a rich chocolatey contrast. The warmth of brownies creates a lovely melty moment with the cold milkshake.
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Crunchy Ginger Snap Cookies: These spiced cookies add a delightful crunch and bring a hint of warmth, perfect for a winter-themed treat. Enjoy them alongside for an extra burst of holiday flavor.
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Homemade Waffles: Light, fluffy waffles can serve as a sweet base to pour the milkshake over. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for an exciting breakfast twist!
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Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Their sweet-tart flavor pairs seamlessly with the minty milkshake, creating a flavor fusion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they add a fresh, fruity element to the table.
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Peppermint Bark: This classic confection enhances the peppermint flavor and adds a satisfying crunch. It offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture that caters to festive vibes.
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Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Enhance the milkshake experience by serving a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side. The additional creaminess elevates your dessert moment!
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Classic Hot Chocolate: For a truly indulgent experience, a cup of rich hot chocolate can complement the chill of the milkshake. It’s a holiday match made in heaven!
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Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink offers a soothing, spiced counterpart to your cool treat, enveloping your senses in a cozy ambiance.
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Cheesecake Bites: Creamy, rich cheesecake bites are delightful alongside the light and refreshing milkshake, creating a balanced dessert platter. Each bite adds an element of elegance to your serving.
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshake
Fridge: Best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, store the peppermint ice cream milkshake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the mixture in a well-sealed container before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw in the fridge for a few hours before blending again.
Reheating: If the milkshake becomes too thick after thawing, add a splash of milk and blend until it’s creamy and smooth. This keeps the peppermint ice cream milkshake delightful even after freezing!
Serving: To ensure the best flavor, consume the milkshake within 2-3 days of making it, as the taste and texture will be at their peak during that time.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshakes are perfect for those bustling days when you need a sweet treat without the hassle! You can prepare the base mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just whip the heavy cream and fold in the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and candy cane pieces. Once combined, pour the mixture into a loaf pan, sprinkle with additional candy canes, and freeze overnight to lock in the flavor. When you’re ready to serve, scoop the frozen blend into your blender, add the milk and vanilla extract, and blend until creamy. With these simple make-ahead steps, you can enjoy a delightful milkshake with minimal effort, allowing for quality family time or a relaxing evening!
Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshake Variations
Get ready to put your own spin on this delightful milkshake!
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Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and use almond milk instead of regular milk for a creamy, plant-based treat.
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Chocolate Twist: Add ¼ cup of chocolate syrup to the blender for a mint chocolate chip experience that beautifully contrasts the peppermint.
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Minty Matcha: Mix in 1 teaspoon of matcha powder while blending for an intriguing green tea flavor alongside the refreshing peppermint.
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Ice Cream Flavors: Try replacing the No Churn Peppermint Ice Cream with vanilla or chocolate for a different base that still sings in harmony with peppermint.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, into the ice cream mixture for added texture and flavor.
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Spicy Chai: For a warm twist, add ½ teaspoon of chai spice mix to the blender, creating a deliciously spiced version of your milkshake.
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Fruit Fusion: Toss in fresh or frozen berries like raspberries or strawberries in the blender for a fruity contrast that brightens the flavor.
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Decadent Drizzle: Finish off with a drizzle of caramel sauce before topping with whipped cream, giving your milkshake a sweet, buttery finish.
Tips for the Best Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshake
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality heavy cream and pure peppermint extract. Fresh ingredients significantly enhance the flavor of your peppermint ice cream milkshake.
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Avoid Over-Whipping: Whip the cream just until soft peaks form. Over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture that won’t blend well with the other ingredients.
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Proper Freezing: Ensure the mixture is stored in a well-sealed loaf pan to avoid ice crystals forming. This will keep your ice cream silky and smooth when blending.
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Blend to Perfection: When blending, start with a low speed and slowly increase to avoid splattering. Blend until fully creamy for the best milkshake consistency.
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Decorate Wisely: Don’t skimp on the candy cane pieces for topping. They provide delightful crunch and festive flair to your peppermint ice cream milkshake, making every sip even more enjoyable.
Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, aim for a pure extract rather than imitation. Look for brands that list “pure peppermint extract” on the label. Pure extracts tend to have a more vibrant flavor, elevating your peppermint ice cream milkshake.
How long can I store the milkshake in the fridge?
You can store the peppermint ice cream milkshake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be aware that it’s best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate creamy experience. If it thickens in the fridge, a splash of milk and a quick blend will bring it back to life!
Can I freeze the peppermint ice cream milkshake?
Absolutely! To freeze the milkshake, first, pour it into a well-sealed, airtight container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, allow it to thaw in the fridge for a few hours. If it becomes too thick after thawing, just blend it with a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency!
What should I do if my whipped cream deflates?
Very! If your whipped cream falls flat, it typically means it was over-whipped. Always whip until you reach soft peaks – this generally takes about 3-5 minutes on medium speed. If it does deflate, incorporate a little fresh whipped cream speaking gently to revive it.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re making this peppermint ice cream milkshake for someone with allergies, be mindful of the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk, which may not be suitable for lactose intolerant individuals. For a dairy-free version, you can opt for coconut cream and a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Can pets have peppermint treats?
Not at all! Peppermint is not safe for pets, including dogs and cats, as it can cause stomach upset. Keep your peppermint treats exclusive to humans for their enjoyment and safety!
Creamy Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshake for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Using a hand mixer, whip slowly at first, then increase speed until soft peaks form, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk with the peppermint extract and finely ground candy cane pieces. Stir until smooth.
- Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream using a rubber spatula, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Pour the combined ice cream mixture into a loaf pan. Sprinkle with additional candy cane pieces, cover, and freeze overnight.
- The next day, scoop the frozen ice cream into your blender. Measure in the milk and vanilla extract. Blend until creamy and smooth.
- Pour your delightful milkshake into glasses, and top with sweetened whipped cream and extra candy cane pieces. Enjoy immediately.