Shakes Recipe

Chill glasses

Place two serving glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes to chill while you mix the shake.

If using fresh fruit (banana or strawberries), hull and slice strawberries and slice banana. Measure out optional add-ins so they are ready to add.

Add 1.5 cups whole milk and 2 cups vanilla ice cream to a blender.

Add 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the blender.

If making a flavored shake, add one optional add-in at this stage: for chocolate, add 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup; for banana, add 1/2 cup sliced banana; for peanut butter, add 2 tablespoons peanut butter; for strawberry, add 3 hulled strawberries. (Do not add all add-ins together unless intentionally creating a combo.)

Secure the blender lid and blend on medium-high for 20–30 seconds until smooth and slightly thickened. Stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula if necessary, then blend 5–10 seconds more. For a thicker shake, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup additional ice cream; for a thinner consistency, add 1–2 tablespoons milk.

Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor: add a little more sugar or syrup if desired and pulse briefly to combine.

Remove chilled glasses from the freezer and pour the shake into the glasses immediately.

Top each shake with 1 tablespoon whipped cream, sprinkle with chocolate shavings or sprinkles, and place a maraschino cherry on top.

Serve with a straw and a spoon. Enjoy immediately while cold.