1.Banana Split Milkshake
1.1 What Is a Banana Split Milkshake?
A banana split milkshake is the drinkable version of the iconic banana split dessert, blending the classic trio of banana, chocolate syrup, and strawberry syrup into a creamy, indulgent milkshake. Drawing inspiration from the traditional dessert, this shake includes the key components—ripe bananas, chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla ice cream—to create a thick, satisfying treat. It’s a nostalgic favorite that transforms a beloved dessert into a sip-worthy experience.
Instead of layering scoops in a dish, everything is blended into one harmonious swirl of flavor. While the traditional banana split is often topped with whipped cream, cherries, and sprinkles, the milkshake version offers the same excitement with the added comfort of a chilled, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a fun dessert twist or something to serve at a themed party, this milkshake is a versatile, crowd-pleasing option.
The origins of the banana split date back to the early 1900s, with roots in American soda fountain culture, as detailed on Wikipedia’s banana entry. Today, this milkshake is an ideal choice for dessert lovers who crave the full diner-style experience without the extra prep.
1.2 Why This Recipe Works
This banana milkshake recipe is a hit because it offers the best of every world—fruity sweetness, creamy texture, and chocolate richness. Each ingredient brings a specific value to the final product:
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Bananas provide natural sweetness and thick consistency.
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Vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate ice creams offer a layered, nostalgic flavor.
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Milk helps blend everything into a smooth, drinkable texture.
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Chocolate syrup deepens the flavor, adding complexity.
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Strawberry syrup gives it a bright, fruity kick that complements the banana perfectly.
To enhance the presentation and flavor, drizzle chocolate syrup around the inside of the glass before pouring in the milkshake. Then, top with whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, and a dash of crushed nuts or sprinkles.
For added flair, explore DIY milkshake bar ideas on Pinterest, perfect for gatherings. If you’re new to making milkshakes, this recipe offers a simple yet decadent introduction, blending aesthetics with flavor.

2. Ingredients Breakdown and Variations
2.1 Core Ingredients and Their Roles
Creating the perfect banana split milkshake starts with understanding the role of each ingredient. These components work together to provide a creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and a swirl of nostalgic flavors that mimic the classic dessert.
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Bananas: Use ripe bananas with speckled skin. They’re naturally sweeter and blend easily, giving the shake a thick, velvety base. Learn more about the fruit’s history and uses on Wikipedia’s Banana page.
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Vanilla, Strawberry, and Chocolate Ice Cream: These three flavors create the foundational taste of the banana split. Vanilla provides a neutral, creamy background; strawberry offers a fruity contrast; and chocolate adds richness.
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Milk: The milk controls the shake’s consistency. Use whole milk for a creamier texture, or try plant-based options like almond or oat milk for a lighter version.
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Chocolate Syrup: This adds a deeper cocoa flavor and enhances the dessert-like quality. Explore the role of chocolate syrup in desserts.
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Strawberry Syrup: A splash of this syrup brings brightness and visual appeal. Although artificial syrups are common, homemade or natural versions provide better taste and color.
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Whipped Cream, Maraschino Cherries, and Sprinkles: These finishing touches offer texture and visual fun. Maraschino cherries are a staple in banana split presentations.
Using quality ingredients ensures the milkshake doesn’t taste overly artificial. The right banana, a good ice cream brand, and premium syrups can elevate a simple drink into a memorable treat.
Explore creative aesthetic ideas with banana milkshake inspiration on Pinterest, especially if you’re serving guests or photographing your creations.
2.2 Recommended Brands & Alternatives
Choosing the right ingredients can significantly impact the flavor and texture of your milkshake. Some brands are better suited for a rich, creamy experience:
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Ice Cream Brands:
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Haagen-Dazs: Known for dense, creamy texture and strong flavor.
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Ben & Jerry’s: Great for mix-ins, which can be fun in a shake.
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Halo Top or Enlightened: Lower-calorie alternatives.
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Milk Options:
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Whole milk: For full creaminess.
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Almond or oat milk: Dairy-free, with a slightly nutty or earthy undertone.
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Coconut milk: Adds tropical notes that complement banana and chocolate.
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For those aiming for lower sugar, choose unsweetened dairy alternatives or sugar-free syrups. If dietary concerns are a priority, use low-fat ice cream and skip the syrup altogether in favor of fresh fruit purée.
For more background, the Ice Cream page on Wikipedia offers insight into the variety and history of this frozen treat.
2.3 Optional Add-ins and Toppings
Once the base is perfected, it’s time to customize. Add-ins can change the flavor profile or simply provide extra texture.
Add-ins:
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Peanut butter: Adds a nutty depth that complements banana and chocolate.
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Crushed cookies: Like Oreos for a dessert-inspired shake.
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Chocolate chips: For crunch and extra sweetness.
Toppings:
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Whipped cream: A non-negotiable classic for visual and flavor appeal.
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Crushed nuts: Adds a salty crunch.
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Sprinkles: Perfect for a festive touch.
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Fresh strawberries or banana slices: Emphasize the real fruit flavor.
You can explore ice cream sundae inspiration on Pinterest for visually exciting combinations and topping arrangements.
If you’re crafting a themed dessert bar or serving this at a gathering, you can even incorporate ideas from a DIY milkshake bar, letting guests customize their toppings.
Each of these additions provides a layer of visual appeal and flavor complexity, making your milkshake feel more like a decadent dessert than a simple drink.
3. Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
3.1 Preparing Your Ingredients
Before you start blending, it’s essential to prepare your ingredients properly to ensure the smoothest, most flavorful banana split milkshake. The right prep can make the difference between a bland shake and a creamy, diner-style treat.
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Use ripe bananas: Look for bananas with brown spots. These are naturally sweeter and easier to blend. You can read more about their ripeness stages on the Banana (fruit) page.
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Slightly soften the ice cream: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. This helps the blender work more efficiently and gives the milkshake a smooth texture.
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Chill your glasses: Pop serving glasses in the freezer while you prep the shake. This keeps the drink colder longer and adds to the aesthetic—something that makes the shake feel like a true treat.
Be sure to have your chocolate syrup, strawberry syrup, and toppings ready for the finishing touch. You might even want to drizzle chocolate syrup along the inside of the glasses for a visually appealing swirl—similar to techniques used in popular recipes on Pinterest’s banana milkshake board.
3.2 Blending the Milkshake
With everything prepped, it’s time to blend. This is where the flavors come together into a perfect harmony.
Instructions:
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Add to blender:
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2 ripe bananas
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1 cup vanilla ice cream
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1 cup strawberry ice cream
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1 cup chocolate ice cream
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1 cup milk (adjust for thickness)
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Blend on high until smooth and creamy—about 30 seconds.
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Check consistency: If it’s too thick, add more milk one tablespoon at a time. If too thin, add more ice cream or frozen banana slices.
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Optional swirl effect: Add a small amount of chocolate syrup and strawberry syrup into the blender at the end, then pulse once or twice. This creates a marble-like swirl without fully mixing the syrups in.
Make sure to pour the shake immediately after blending to preserve its cold, creamy texture. If you’re experimenting with textures or serving styles, you can find inspiration from ice cream presentation trends, such as layering ingredients for visual contrast.
For those interested in milkshake texture hacks, using frozen banana slices instead of fresh ones can produce a thicker, almost frosty consistency. This technique is widely used in healthy shakes and can also reduce the amount of ice cream needed.
3.3 Serving and Presentation
Presentation is key for a banana split milkshake. It enhances the experience and gives that nostalgic diner vibe many people crave.
Steps for serving:
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Drizzle chocolate syrup on the inside of your chilled glasses.
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Pour in the milkshake slowly to preserve the syrup pattern.
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Top with whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, and a sprinkle of crushed nuts or colorful sprinkles.
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Insert a wide straw and serve immediately.
Want to take it up a notch? Check out Pinterest’s DIY milkshake bar to see how others are styling their drinks for parties and events. Incorporating ideas from those sources can elevate your presentation, especially when hosting.
For a finishing touch, include a slice of banana or a drizzle of strawberry syrup on top. These small details enhance both visual appeal and taste.
3.4 Tips for Best Results
To ensure your banana milkshake with chocolate syrup and strawberry syrup turns out perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
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Use frozen bananas for a creamier texture without extra ice cream.
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Balance your syrups: Too much chocolate can overpower; too much strawberry can make it overly sweet. A tablespoon of each is usually enough.
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Blend in stages if your blender is underpowered—start with bananas and milk, then add the ice creams.
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Serve immediately for best consistency. If you must wait, store it in the freezer and re-blend briefly before serving.
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Use quality syrups: For richer taste, consider using or making natural syrups. Learn more about chocolate syrup and strawberries to better understand their roles in dessert crafting.
For a retro touch, serve the shake in tall glasses with striped paper straws. This small detail creates a visual link to classic milkshake culture, as highlighted in the Milkshake article on Wikipedia.

4. Creative Variations
4.1 Healthy Version
You can easily create a healthier banana split milkshake without sacrificing too much flavor. Whether you’re cutting calories or reducing sugar intake, these substitutions still deliver a satisfying, creamy drink.
Swap these ingredients:
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Use frozen bananas as a base instead of ice cream. This gives a thick, naturally sweet texture without added sugars.
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Replace regular milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for a low-calorie, dairy-free option.
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Choose sugar-free chocolate syrup and natural strawberry purée instead of store-bought syrups.
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Add Greek yogurt for protein and a creamy consistency.
These tweaks create a version that’s lower in sugar, fat, and calories—ideal for health-conscious dessert lovers. According to Wikipedia’s milkshake entry, variations with yogurt and fruit are increasingly popular for their nutritional value.
To add visual appeal, top with a few sliced bananas or a sprinkle of chia seeds for texture and added nutrients. This version can also double as a post-workout smoothie due to its high potassium content from bananas.
4.2 Vegan/Dairy-Free Adaptation
Making a vegan banana split milkshake is easier than ever thanks to the variety of plant-based ice creams and milks on the market. This version retains all the indulgence of the original, minus the dairy.
Key substitutions:
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Use non-dairy ice creams in vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate (e.g., made from coconut, almond, or oat milk).
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Choose a plant-based milk such as oat milk for creaminess or almond milk for a lighter taste.
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Top with coconut whipped cream instead of dairy-based.
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Select vegan-friendly chocolate and strawberry syrups or make your own using fresh fruit and cocoa.
For a guide on ice cream types, see Ice cream variations on Wikipedia, which includes information on dairy-free and vegan alternatives.
Many Pinterest users have shared beautiful, plant-based milkshake recipes. Explore more through boards like banana milkshake aesthetic to find ideas for garnishing and serving your vegan shake with flair.
This version is also a great option for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You won’t miss out on flavor or texture when using the right plant-based substitutes.
4.3 Boozy Banana Split Milkshake
Want to turn your banana split milkshake into an adult indulgence? Adding a splash of alcohol transforms this nostalgic drink into a rich dessert cocktail.
Recommended liquors:
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Kahlua: Adds coffee notes that pair perfectly with chocolate.
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Baileys Irish Cream: Offers a creamy, indulgent texture.
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Banana liqueur: Enhances the natural banana flavor.
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Dark rum or spiced rum: For a bold, tropical twist.
Start with 1 ounce of your chosen spirit and blend with the other ingredients. Avoid over-pouring, as too much alcohol can thin out the shake.
Serve in a cocktail-style glass, top with whipped cream, and finish with a maraschino cherry. You can find presentation ideas for adult shakes in ice cream sundae Pinterest inspiration, where boozy milkshakes are a growing trend.
This version is ideal for dinner parties or date nights and works well as a dessert replacement. Add crushed cookies or shaved chocolate for a more decadent finish.
4.4 Kid-Friendly Customizations
Creating a fun, interactive banana split milkshake experience for kids is easy. With a few playful additions, this treat becomes both visually exciting and customizable.
Kid-friendly toppings:
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Mini marshmallows
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Gummy bears or worms
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Colorful sprinkles
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Chocolate chips or candy bits
Use clear mason jars or milkshake glasses to show off the colorful layers and syrup swirls. Top with whipped cream and a cherry, then serve with colorful straws or umbrellas for added fun.
Turn it into a DIY event with inspiration from a DIY milkshake bar. Let kids build their own shakes by choosing from various syrups, toppings, and even ice cream flavors.
This version is great for birthday parties, summer playdates, or as a reward for a job well done. Parents can feel better knowing bananas are the foundation, and the experience is just as exciting as the taste.
5. Serving Suggestions and Storage
5.1 Ideal Occasions
The banana split milkshake isn’t just another sweet treat—it’s a celebration in a glass. Its nostalgic flavor and fun presentation make it the perfect addition to:
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Birthday parties: Especially for kids, this milkshake doubles as dessert and entertainment.
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Summer BBQs or picnics: Serve in chilled jars for a refreshing, fruity end to a warm-weather meal.
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Retro-themed dinners or 1950s diner nights: Embrace a vintage aesthetic by pairing it with burgers or fries for a classic combo.
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Movie nights at home: Swap out popcorn for a creamy milkshake in front of the screen.
Use fun presentation ideas from Pinterest’s banana milkshake inspiration to create themed glasses or garnish stations that elevate your event.
5.2 Storage Tips
While this banana chocolate strawberry milkshake is best enjoyed fresh, you can make slight preparations ahead of time or preserve leftovers if needed.
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Short-term storage: Store in an airtight container or mason jar in the freezer for up to 1–2 days. Let it thaw slightly, then re-blend to restore the creamy texture.
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Avoid storing with toppings: Add whipped cream, cherries, and sprinkles only right before serving to prevent sogginess.
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Pre-prep ingredients: Slice and freeze bananas ahead of time, scoop your ice cream into containers, and have your syrups ready for quick blending.
Remember, once blended, the shake will lose some of its texture the longer it sits. However, with the right techniques, it can still be revived for a delicious second serving.
6. Nutritional Info and Considerations
6.1 Estimated Calories and Sugar
Depending on the ingredients and quantities used, a standard banana split milkshake can contain:
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Calories: Approximately 550–700 per serving
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Sugar: Around 60–75 grams, primarily from syrups and ice cream
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Fat: 20–30 grams depending on the cream content of the ice creams and milk
To reduce calories:
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Use low-fat or plant-based ice cream
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Substitute syrups with fresh fruit purées
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Replace whole milk with skim or almond milk
You can find additional insights into the sugar content and health considerations of desserts on Wikipedia’s milkshake and ice cream pages.
6.2 Allergen Warnings
This recipe contains several common allergens:
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Dairy: Present in ice cream, milk, and whipped cream
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Tree nuts: If using almond milk or nut toppings
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Soy or additives: Found in some syrups or low-fat ice cream brands
Always read labels carefully, especially if serving to guests with dietary restrictions. A vegan version (covered earlier) can help avoid most major allergens.
7.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7.1 Can I use frozen bananas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen bananas are an excellent substitute. They create a thicker, creamier texture and can reduce the need for added ice cream or ice.
7.2 How do I make my milkshake thicker?
Use less milk, add more ice cream, or freeze your bananas beforehand. Blending on low speed can also prevent over-thinning.
7.3 What syrup goes best with banana?
Chocolate syrup complements banana’s richness, while strawberry syrup adds a fruity contrast. Using both delivers the classic banana split flavor.
7.4 Can I make a banana milkshake without ice cream?
Yes. Blend frozen bananas, a splash of milk, and a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a creamy, healthier shake.
7.5 Is it okay to prepare banana milkshake ahead of time?
Ideally, it’s best served fresh. However, you can store it in the freezer for a few hours and re-blend before serving.
7.6 What are good toppings for banana split milkshake?
Classic toppings include:
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Whipped cream
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Maraschino cherries
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Crushed nuts
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Sprinkles
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Chocolate or strawberry drizzle
Banana Milkshake Recipe With Chocolate Syrup And Strawberry Syrup
A creamy, nostalgic banana split milkshake that blends ripe bananas, vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream into one decadent drink. Swirled with rich chocolate syrup and sweet strawberry syrup, this milkshake is topped with whipped cream, a cherry, and your favorite sprinkles or nuts. It’s a drinkable version of the classic dessert—perfect for summer parties, retro nights, or a fun twist on milkshake recipes.
Inspired by diner favorites, this recipe combines fruity brightness and deep chocolate tones in every sip. With just a few ingredients and a blender, you can recreate a soda fountain classic in your own kitchen.
- Author: Clara
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup strawberry ice cream
- 1 cup chocolate ice cream
- 1 cup milk (adjust for desired thickness)
- ¼ cup chocolate syrup
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Maraschino cherries, for topping
- Crushed nuts or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Add bananas, vanilla ice cream, strawberry ice cream, chocolate ice cream, and milk into a blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Drizzle chocolate syrup inside the serving glasses if desired, then pour in the milkshake.
Top with whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, and optional crushed nuts or sprinkles.
Serve immediately.
Notes
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Use ripe bananas for the sweetest flavor and creamiest texture.
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Soften ice cream slightly for easier blending.
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Adjust milk based on your desired thickness.
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Customize with different toppings—try crushed Oreos, mini marshmallows, or fresh fruit.
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For a healthier version, use frozen bananas and Greek yogurt.
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Turn it into a boozy milkshake with a splash of Baileys or Kahlua for an adult twist.
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Best served immediately, but can be frozen and re-blended later.