There’s something timeless and comforting about a classic strawberry milkshake topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Whether it’s the fresh sweetness of ripe strawberries, the rich creaminess of premium ice cream, or that satisfying slurp through a straw on a hot day, a well-made strawberry milkshake offers a nostalgic joy that appeals to all ages.
In this comprehensive recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make the ultimate Strawberry Milkshake with Whipped Cream from scratch—creamy, smooth, and loaded with real strawberries. Perfect for parties, dessert cravings, or an afternoon treat, this milkshake is easy to whip up in minutes and hard to put down.
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Milkshake:
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved (plus extra for garnish)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust depending on strawberry sweetness)
3 large scoops (about 2 cups) strawberry or vanilla ice cream
¾ cup whole milk (adjust for thickness preference)
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt (optional, to enhance flavor)
For the Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes:
Fresh strawberry slices
Crushed graham crackers or cookies
Colored sprinkles
White or pink chocolate shavings
Maraschino cherries
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash and hull the strawberries.
Slice them in halves or quarters if large.
Place strawberries in a bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to macerate. This draws out their natural juices and enhances sweetness.
Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, add the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Beat using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (about 2–3 minutes).
Be careful not to overbeat—stop once the cream holds its shape.
Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a star tip or keep chilled until needed.
Step 3: Blend the Milkshake
Add the macerated strawberries, ice cream, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to a blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy. For a thicker shake, use less milk. For a thinner consistency, add a splash more.
Taste and adjust sweetness as needed by blending in a little extra sugar or honey.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Pour the milkshake into tall glasses.
Pipe or spoon the whipped cream generously on top.
Garnish with a fresh strawberry, sprinkles, or your choice of toppings.
Serve immediately with a wide straw or milkshake spoon.
Prep Time & Serving Info
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2 large milkshakes (or 3 medium)
Tips for the Best Strawberry Milkshake
Use ripe, sweet strawberries: The better the fruit, the better the shake. If strawberries aren’t in season, use frozen strawberries for a more consistent flavor.
Chill your glasses: Pop milkshake glasses in the freezer for 5–10 minutes before serving for a frosty experience.
Choose high-quality ice cream: The richness and texture of your shake depend heavily on the ice cream. Look for premium brands with minimal additives.
Flavor boosters: Add a dash of lemon juice or strawberry extract for an extra pop of flavor.
Add texture: Mix in small pieces of fresh strawberries at the end of blending for a chunky version.
Make it indulgent: Swirl strawberry syrup inside the glass before pouring in the shake for a dessert-like presentation.
Variations
1. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Shake:
Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder or 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup to the blender. Top with chocolate shavings.
2. Strawberry Shortcake Milkshake:
Add crushed shortbread or pound cake to the shake or as a topping.
3. Strawberry Banana Milkshake:
Blend in half a ripe banana for a tropical twist and natural sweetness.
4. Vegan/Dairy-Free Version:
Use plant-based vanilla ice cream (almond, oat, or coconut).
Replace dairy milk with almond milk or oat milk.
Use coconut whipped cream instead of dairy-based.
5. Boozy Version for Adults:
Add 1–2 oz of strawberry liqueur, vanilla vodka, or whipped cream vodka.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Note: Approximate values based on using whole milk and premium ice cream.
Calories: 420–480 kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Sugars: 35g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 110mg
Calcium: 180mg
Fiber: 2g
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips: While the shake is best served immediately, you can macerate strawberries and whip cream in advance. Keep both chilled until ready to blend and serve.
Storage: Milkshakes don’t store well, but if needed, you can freeze any leftovers in a popsicle mold or ice cube tray for a fun frozen treat.
Serving Ideas
Dessert Bar: Set up a milkshake bar with different toppings like mini marshmallows, syrups, crushed cookies, and candies.
Party Presentation: Serve in mason jars tied with ribbon and striped straws for a nostalgic look.
Summer BBQ: Pair with burgers or grilled hot dogs for a retro diner-style experience.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Milkshake with Whipped Cream is more than just a dessert—it’s a trip down memory lane and a celebration of simple, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re using garden-fresh berries or frozen ones from your freezer, the result is always creamy, fruity perfection. And with the pillowy crown of vanilla whipped cream on top, it becomes a treat worthy of any occasion—or no occasion at all.
This recipe is incredibly customizable, quick to make, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for kids, teens, and adults alike, it’s a go-to favorite that never goes out of style.
So next time the sun is shining, and you need something cool and sweet to lift your spirits, grab those strawberries and get blending—you’re just minutes away from milkshake bliss.
