Copycat Shamrock Shake Recipe … With Matcha

Craving a McD’s shake? Well, here’s a copycat shamrock shake recipe … with matcha! I think Shamrock Shakes were on my brain because of St. Patrick’s Day, and also everyone in my house was talking about how McDonald’s changed their shakes into “gourmet” shakes, which just means that they get to charge you 3x more than they previously did for exactly the same thing. It has a bit of peppermint, too. This knockoff is so good, you don’t need to leave your house. #StPatricksDay

Why I Love This Copycat Shamrock Shake Recipe … With Matcha

A few weeks ago, I was sick as a dog. Multiple people told me that “something was going around.” Well, that something was awful. I don’t get sick very often, so I was even more awful. And for some reason, I get a huge sweet tooth whenever I am sick. Okay, who am I kidding. I always have one.

So I’m not going to lie. I was seriously thinking of going on a matcha shake diet. (This shake definitely does not qualify as a “diet” haha.) I’ve heard great things about matcha, though. So I bought some matcha green tea leaf powder from Amazon, and had myself a cup of tea and honey. It was awful. I read that you needed to “whisk” it, because the powder kind of settles at the bottom, so I then bought a matcha whisk. See, this is how Amazon gets you.

This improved my tea only slightly. And, I’m also an avid coffee drinker. Unlike lots of people, I enjoy the taste of coffee, not the caffeine. So making a switch to matcha is difficult to say the least.

At any rate, you need all the antioxidants you can get when you’re sick, and this knockoff shamrock shake recipe with matcha has plenty of it! Oh, and did I mention that I like Shamrock Shakes? :) Perfect for St. Patty’s Day!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Blender (Ninja or NutriBullet)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving glasses
• Spoon (for toppings)

Why Matcha Is So Good For You

Matcha, a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves, is celebrated not only for its vibrant green color and distinct flavor but also for its numerous health benefits. Unlike traditional green tea, matcha involves consuming the whole leaf, making it a more potent source of nutrients. Here are several reasons why matcha is so good for you:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Matcha is packed with catechins, a type of antioxidant that helps fight against cell damage and prevent chronic diseases. These antioxidants also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can support overall health.
2. Enhances Brain Function: Matcha contains a combination of caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid that can improve brain function. This combination can help increase focus, attention, and memory without the jittery side effects often associated with high caffeine intake.
3. Boosts Metabolism and Burns Fat: Some studies suggest that matcha can help enhance metabolic rate and increase fat burning, making it a popular choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
4. Detoxifies the Body: The special way matcha is grown, shaded from direct sunlight for the last few weeks before harvest, increases its chlorophyll content. Chlorophyll can help detoxify the body by eliminating heavy metals and chemical toxins.
5. Supports Heart Health: Regular consumption of matcha has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. Its antioxidants can help lower bad cholesterol levels and triglycerides, potentially preventing heart disease.
6. Improves Skin Health: The high levels of catechins in matcha can also benefit the skin by protecting it from damage caused by free radicals and reducing inflammation, which can lead to a clearer and more youthful complexion.

Understanding the Different Types of Matcha

Matcha, a traditional Japanese green tea powder, is revered not only for its rich history and unique preparation methods but also for the variety of grades available, each suited to different purposes and tastes. The main types of matcha are ceremonial grade, culinary grade, and premium grade. Understanding these types can help you choose the right matcha for your needs, whether you’re preparing a traditional tea ceremony or cooking.

Ceremonial Grade Matcha

Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality and is specifically intended for use in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. This grade of matcha is made from the youngest, most tender tea leaves, which are stone-ground into a fine powder. It has a vibrant green color and a delicate, sweet flavor that is best enjoyed when whisked with water and consumed on its own. Ceremonial grade matcha is characterized by its fine texture and rich, nuanced taste, without the bitterness found in lower grades.

Culinary Grade Matcha

Culinary grade matcha is designed for cooking and baking. It is made from leaves that are slightly older than those used for ceremonial grade, which results in a stronger flavor and a slightly less vibrant color. This type of matcha is ideal for recipes that combine matcha with other ingredients, such as smoothies, lattes, desserts, and savory dishes. Culinary grade matcha offers a robust green tea flavor that can stand up to the other components in a recipe.

Premium Grade Matcha

Premium grade matcha strikes a balance between ceremonial and culinary grades, making it versatile for both drinking and cooking purposes. It is made from young tea leaves, similar to ceremonial grade, but is slightly less refined. Premium grade matcha has a good color and flavor, with a slightly more astringent taste than ceremonial grade but is more affordable, making it a great option for everyday use.

Each type of matcha serves a distinct purpose and offers a unique experience.

• Ceremonial grade is perfect for those seeking to appreciate the traditional art of Japanese tea drinking.
• Culinary grade is ideal for chefs and food enthusiasts looking to infuse their dishes with the distinct flavor of matcha.
• Premium grade offers a middle ground, suitable for both drinking and culinary uses, providing a flexible option for those new to matcha or looking for an all-purpose powder.

FAQs

1. Can I make this shake vegan? To create a vegan-friendly version of this shake, opt for plant-based vanilla ice cream. There’s a plethora of vegan ice cream options on the market that can make this recipe just as delightful without the use of dairy products. Choosing a vegan ice cream not only caters to dietary restrictions but also ensures that the shake remains a guilt-free pleasure for those looking to avoid animal products.
2. Is this shake gluten-free? Yes, this shake is inherently gluten-free as it does not include ingredients like wheat, barley, or rye that contain gluten. However, for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, it’s essential to use ingredients that are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination and ensure the shake is completely safe for consumption.
3. How can I store leftovers? To properly store any leftover shake, transfer it into an airtight container and freeze it. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, allow the shake to soften at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes. Afterwards, give it a quick stir or blend to restore its creamy consistency, ensuring that it retains its original flavor and texture.
4. Can I use a different type of milk? This recipe is versatile, allowing the use of any milk variety to suit dietary preferences or needs, including soy, oat, coconut, or traditional cow’s milk. Each type of milk will integrate smoothly into the shake, making it adaptable to various dietary requirements or personal taste preferences.
5. What are some good pairing suggestions for this shake? The matcha shamrock shake pairs excellently with a variety of treats such as shortbread cookies, warm scones, or slices of vanilla or lemon bars. The refreshing quality of the shake offers a delightful contrast to these sweet and buttery treats, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
6. Can I omit the green food coloring? The green food coloring can be omitted from this recipe. The matcha powder alone imparts a natural green color to the shake, although the resulting shade will be more subdued than the vibrant green typically associated with traditional shamrock shakes. This makes for a more natural and possibly healthier option for those looking to avoid artificial coloring.
7. What if I don’t have matcha powder? In the absence of matcha powder, you can still enjoy a minty shake by using peppermint extract and green food coloring to mimic the flavor profile. However, this alternative will lack the distinct flavor and health benefits that matcha powder offers, such as its high antioxidant content.
8. How can I adjust the thickness of the shake? Adjusting the thickness of the shake is easy; simply add more ice cream to achieve a thicker consistency or more milk for a thinner shake. This allows for customization according to individual preferences, ensuring that the shake meets your desired thickness every time.
9. Are there any substitutions for peppermint extract? If peppermint extract is not available, mint extract can serve as a suitable alternative. It’s advisable to start with a smaller quantity and adjust the amount to taste, as the flavor intensity may differ between extracts, allowing for flexibility in flavoring the shake.
10. Can I add protein powder to this shake? Incorporating a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder into the shake is a great way to enhance its protein content. This addition might slightly alter the taste and texture of the shake, so adjustments to the quantities of other ingredients may be necessary to achieve the desired consistency and flavor profile.
11. How can I make this shake sugar-free? Creating a sugar-free version of this shake involves selecting sugar-free vanilla ice cream or a suitable low-carb substitute, along with a sugar-free sweetener to achieve the desired sweetness. This modification caters to those looking to reduce their sugar intake without compromising on the taste and enjoyment of the shake.

Photo Steps

 

The Final: Copycat Shamrock Shake Recipe … With Matcha