Classic Banana Milkshake Recipe With Vanilla Ice Cream (So Good!)

I had some ripe bananas, so I used them up to make this classic banana milkshake recipe. I topped it off with some whipped cream, fun colored sprinkles, and a cherry. This gorgeous milkshake contains real bananas, not some fake banana flavoring (which is usually from banana ice cream or flavoring). I am in love with the color, not to mention the taste. I used nutmeg in this recipe, which has eugenol. Eugenol is also found in bananas! They go together, well, like a banana milkshake, ha!

What I Love About This Banana Milkshake Recipe

Seriously, what is not to love? This is a classic milkshake, and if you love bananas, you will go bananas over this milkshake.

The best part that it really isn’t too bad for you, packing about 450 calories into one indulgent treat. To make it less calories, swap out lighter milk like 1%, use fat-free vanilla ice cream, or make it sans whipped cream. (But omg, what would be the fun in that???)

You can also make it totally vegan by substituting all coconut everything (coconut milk, coconut ice cream, coconut whipped cream).

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• blender
• knife
• measuring cups
• measuring spoons
• glasses
• spoon for garnishing

Some Tips To Make The Bestest Banana Milkshake!

1. Use Ripe Bananas: Select bananas that are ripe and slightly speckled. Ripe bananas are naturally sweeter and blend into a smoother texture, enhancing the overall flavor of your milkshake.
2. Chill Your Glass: Before serving, chill your glasses in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. A cold glass will keep your milkshake chilled longer, providing a refreshing experience with every sip.
3. Quality Ice Cream: Use high-quality vanilla ice cream for a rich and creamy texture. Premium ice creams usually have a higher fat content, which contributes to a smoother and more decadent milkshake.
4. Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste and the sweetness of the bananas, you may want to add a little honey or a splash of maple syrup to enhance the sweetness of your milkshake.
5. Experiment with Milk Choices: Try different types of milk to see how they affect the flavor and texture. Full-fat milk will give you the creamiest result, but almond or coconut milk can add a nice twist to the flavor while keeping it dairy-free.
6. Add a Pinch of Salt: A small pinch of salt can intensify the milkshake’s flavors without making it salty. Salt is a great enhancer that brings out the natural sweetness of the ingredients.
7. Blend Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are blended thoroughly to achieve a smooth, lump-free texture. Blend for at least a minute or until you see that the mixture is completely smooth.
8. Top with Fresh Whipped Cream: Instead of using store-bought whipped cream, whip your own with a touch of vanilla extract. Fresh whipped cream is lighter, fluffier, and you can control the sweetness.

Some Variations

1. Banana-Strawberry Milkshake:
   • Substitute vanilla ice cream with strawberry ice cream.
   • Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries to the blender along with the bananas for a fruity twist.
2. Chocolate Banana Milkshake:
   • Use chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla.
   • Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup to enhance the chocolate flavor.
3. Peanut Butter Banana Milkshake:
   • Add two tablespoons of creamy peanut butter to the blender with the bananas.
   • This variation pairs well with either vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
4. Caramel Banana Milkshake:
   • Drizzle caramel sauce into the blender along with the bananas.
   • Use caramel ice cream if available, or stick with vanilla for a subtle caramel flavor.
5. Coffee Banana Milkshake:
   • Brew a strong espresso shot and allow it to cool before adding to the blender.
   • Coffee ice cream can replace vanilla for an extra caffeine kick.
6. Coconut Banana Milkshake:
   • Use coconut milk instead of regular milk and add a scoop of coconut ice cream.
   • Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before serving for added texture.
7. Mango Banana Milkshake:
   • Add 1/2 cup of chopped fresh mango to the blender.
   • Mango sorbet can replace vanilla ice cream for a tropical flavor profile.
8. Nutella Banana Milkshake:
   • Blend in two tablespoons of Nutella with the other ingredients.
   • Chocolate or hazelnut ice cream complements the Nutella beautifully.
9. Spiced Banana Milkshake:
   • Add a mixture of spices such as a pinch of cardamom, a dash of cinnamon, or a pinch of nutmeg to the vanilla ice cream and banana.
   • This version is particularly delightful in cooler weather.
10. Blueberry Banana Milkshake:
    • Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the blend.
    • Vanilla or blueberry ice cream can be used to amplify the berry flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

Milkshakes are great on their own, but if you want something special, try it my Strawberry Banana Smoothie Bowl or Thin and Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookies!

FAQs

1. Can I use more bananas for a stronger flavor? Sure, if you want a more intense banana flavor in your milkshake, go ahead and add more bananas. Just stick to non-frozen ones to keep your blender running smoothly.
2. What type of milk is best for a banana milkshake? You can use 2% or whole milk for a creamier texture. If you’re looking for something lighter, try using 1% milk. Half and half makes a smashing, rich milkshake!
3. How should I store leftover banana milkshake? It’s best to drink your milkshake fresh, but if you do have leftovers, pop them in the fridge. You can also freeze them in molds for a tasty frozen treat later.
4. How can I make my banana milkshake sweeter? Ripe bananas are your best bet for a naturally sweet shake. If it’s still not sweet enough, a little more ice cream or a splash of honey or maple syrup should do the trick.
5. Can I make this milkshake without ice cream? Yes, you can leave out the ice cream for a lighter version or use frozen yogurt instead. It won’t be as thick, but it’ll still be tasty.
6. How can I make a vegan banana milkshake? Just switch out the regular milk and ice cream for your favorite plant-based alternatives. There are plenty of vegan options that taste great in a milkshake.
7. Is this banana milkshake gluten-free? As long as you ensure there’s no cross-contamination with gluten-containing products, your milkshake should be gluten-free.
8. Can I make a banana milkshake without a blender? If you don’t have a blender, soften the ice cream a bit, mash the banana thoroughly, and shake it up with the milk in a jar with a tight lid. It won’t be mixed up as much, though!
9. What if my milkshake is too thick? If your shake comes out too thick, just mix in a little more milk until you get the consistency you like.
10. Can I add other fruits to this milkshake? Mixing in other fruits like strawberries or blueberries can add a fresh twist and pair nicely with the banana.
11. What if my milkshake isn’t creamy enough? For a creamier texture, make sure your bananas are ripe and blend the shake a bit longer. Adding a scoop of yogurt can also help.
12. How can I make this shake colder and more refreshing? To make your milkshake colder, try using frozen banana slices or toss in a few ice cubes before blending. Chilling the glasses beforehand helps too.
13. Are there any other flavors I can add? Spice things up by adding a little cinnamon or cardamom. These can deepen the flavor of your milkshake.

The Final: Good Banana Milkshake Recipe