Learn all the secrets to making this super thick, extra creamy strawberry milkshake. Made with real strawberries and vanilla ice cream, it’s the perfect shake for a hot summer day.
Is there anything better than a strawberry milkshake? Cold and creamy, so thick your straw almost stands up, and bursting with juicy berries — an old-fashioned strawberry shake is hard to beat.
Every spring and early summer, my dad used to bring home a huge flat of strawberries from a local fundraiser. We spent the morning sorting and freezing berries that needed it, and then it was time for strawberry milkshakes.
The fundraiser signaled the start of summer: bright red berries to eat right away and a stash of frozen fruit to make milkshakes for weeks.
When summer arrives, a strawberry milkshake or two is definitely in order.
How to Make the Best Strawberry Milkshake
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 pound strawberries — choose berries that are red or pink through the center for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 pint high-quality vanilla ice cream (real cream ice cream, not frozen dessert)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk — 2% or whole milk gives the creamiest result
My top milkshake tips:
- Slice the strawberries, toss them with the sugar, and refrigerate to macerate. This draws out the juices and intensifies the strawberry flavor. One hour is ideal, but even 10–20 minutes helps a lot.
- If fresh berries aren’t available, frozen strawberries work well too.
- Chill your glasses in the freezer before serving. Cold glasses slow melting so the shake stays thick longer.
- Vanilla ice cream is classic and adds creaminess, but you can use strawberry ice cream if you prefer an extra strawberry-forward flavor.
- Adjust the milk to reach your preferred thickness — less milk for an ultra-thick shake, a bit more for a smoother pour.
This recipe yields two large, restaurant-sized milkshakes or four smaller servings. The result is a real-deal, old-fashioned strawberry milkshake that’s thick, creamy, and irresistible.
Strawberry Milkshake
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb strawberries
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
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Slice the strawberries.
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Toss the sliced strawberries with the sugar and refrigerate for 20–60 minutes to release the juices.
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Combine the macerated strawberries, ice cream, vanilla, and milk in a blender. Blend until smooth and thick.
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Pour into two large glasses or four smaller ones and enjoy immediately.
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