The Shamrock Shake has become one of the most anticipated shakes McDonalds has on their menu. Thousands of people patiently wait until February/March rolls around to grab a big slurp of that creamy, thick delicious shake.
And to be honest, St. Patrick’s Day just wouldn’t be the same without one!
But you don’t have to be patient anymore! We have recreated this shake for both kids and adults.
You will need vanilla ice cream, half and half, mint extract and food coloring. The ingredients go into a blender and get whirled until smooth and creamy.

Can you add alcohol?
Is that even a real question? YES! Here are a few suggestions:
MINTY:
- Add 2 oz. Crème de menthe
- 2 oz. Vanilla Vodka
BAILEYS:
- Add ½ cup Baileys Irish Cream
PEPPERMINTY:
- Add 2 oz Crème de menthe
- 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream liqueur
- 1 oz Peppermint Schnapps
OTHER TIPS:
- Be sure to use MINT extract and NOT peppermint. The peppermint will not give the same flavor as a McDonald’s shamrock shake. Mint extract comes closer and is less powerful.
- Use whole milk – don’t waste your time trying to make this ‘lowfat’. It’s not worth it!
- Less is more with the food coloring. Start with 6-8 drops, give it a whirl and if you want it darker add 2-3 more.

SIMPLE Shamrock Shake
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
No need to make a trip to McDonald’s for their infamous Shamrock Shake when you can make your own copycat version right at home!
Ingredients
- 2 cups Vanilla Ice Cream
- ½ cup Half-and-Half
- 6–8 drops of Green Food Coloring
- ¼ teaspoon Mint Extract (not peppermint)
- Whipped Cream for topping
- Cherries
Instructions
- PLACE all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth.
- POUR into tall glass.
- TOP with whipped cream, cherry or sprinkles, if desired.
1 Comment
Diana
February 26, 2022 at 10:10 amThis recipe is spot on! My kids love the shamrock shake and making it at home on demand has made me a superhero in their eyes!