Sep 07 2026
RestaurantsCarl's Jr.Vanilla Hand-scooped® Ice Cream Shake Recipe

Vanilla Hand-scooped® Ice Cream Shake Recipe

Inspired by Carl's Jr.
Time15m
Serves2

Make Vanilla Hand-scooped® Ice Cream Shake Recipe in just 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Shake Base

Method

Shake Base

  1. 1

    Soften ice cream

    Remove the Vanilla Hand-Scooped® ice cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 3–5 minutes so it is scoopable but not melted. This helps it blend smoothly without becoming watery.

  2. 2

    Combine ingredients

    Add 3 cups of slightly softened vanilla ice cream, 1 cup whole milk, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, and 1 tsp granulated sugar (if using) to a blender. If you want a thicker, frostier shake, add 4 ice cubes.

  3. 3

    Pulse and blend

    Start the blender on low and pulse 3–4 times to break up the ice cream, then blend on medium-high for 20–30 seconds until smooth and creamy. Stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula once, then blend another 5–10 seconds. The goal is a thick, velvety texture — if it’s too thick to pour, add up to 2 tbsp more milk and blend briefly.

  4. 4

    Taste and adjust

    Taste the shake and add a touch more sugar or 1/4 tsp vanilla if you want a stronger vanilla note. Blend briefly to incorporate any additions.

Garnish & Finish

  1. 5

    Prepare glass

    Chill a tall milkshake glass in the freezer for 5 minutes if desired. For extra presentation, rim the glass with a little whipped cream and dip into crushed waffle cone or vanilla wafer crumbs.

  2. 6

    Pour and top

    Pour the finished shake into the prepared glass, leaving about 1 inch from the top. Top with 1/2 cup whipped cream, a drizzle (about 1/4 tsp) of vanilla bean paste or a few drops of extra vanilla extract for aroma, and sprinkle 2 tbsp crushed waffle cone or vanilla wafer if using.

  3. 7

    Garnish

    Place one maraschino cherry on top of the whipped cream. Serve immediately with a straw and a long spoon.

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