Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake

Name: Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups vanilla ice cream; 1 cup milk (whole or non-dairy); ½ tsp pure mint extract; 1 drop green food coloring (optional); Whipped cream (for topping)

Published: February 16, 2026

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake

This incredible Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake:

Vanilla Ice Cream: Use high-quality vanilla ice cream for that creamy texture that makes each sip feel indulgent.
Milk: Any milk works here—whole milk offers richness while almond or oat milk keeps things lighter.
Mint Extract: A little goes a long way! Choose pure mint extract for authentic flavor.
Green Food Coloring: Optional, but it adds that classic Shamrock Shake vibe; just a drop will do!
Whipped Cream: For topping; homemade is best, but store-bought works in a pinch!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by collecting all your ingredients. Make sure your ice cream is soft enough to scoop easily but not too melted—nobody wants a liquid shake!

Step 2: Blend It Up

In a blender, combine about two cups of vanilla ice cream with one cup of milk. Add half a teaspoon of mint extract (adjust based on your taste preference) and one drop of green food coloring for that iconic look.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Put the lid on your blender (trust me; you don’t want minty ice cream all over the kitchen) and blend until everything is smooth and creamy. You should see a beautiful minty color forming!

Step 4: Taste Test

Before serving your masterpiece, taste it! If you want more minty goodness, add another drop of extract. Blend again if needed.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Pour your shake into tall glasses and top generously with whipped cream. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips on top.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Grab a straw (or two) and dive into your creamy delight! Perfect for sharing—or not; we won’t judge if you keep it all to yourself!

With each sip of this Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake, you’re not just enjoying a drink; you’re reliving memories while creating new ones. So go ahead—sip away!

You Must Know About Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake

This showstopping Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Begin by blending the mint ice cream and milk in a blender until smooth. Next, add the whipped cream and food coloring for that signature green hue, then blend briefly to combine. Pour into a glass and top with more whipped cream.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake by swapping mint ice cream with vanilla or adding chocolate syrup for a twist. You can even sprinkle crushed Oreo cookies on top for extra crunch and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover shake in an airtight container in the freezer. To enjoy later, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before blending again to restore its creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake

This professional-quality Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I remember the first time I made this Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake for my friends; they couldn’t believe how delicious it was! Their faces lit up brighter than my kitchen lights!

FAQs

What is Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake?

The Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake is a delicious mint-flavored milkshake that mimics the iconic treat served at McDonald’s during St. Patrick’s Day. This homemade version combines vanilla ice cream, milk, and mint extract to create a creamy texture and refreshing taste. The vibrant green color makes it visually appealing, while whipped cream on top adds an extra indulgent touch. Making this shake at home allows you to customize the sweetness and mint intensity to your liking, ensuring every sip is just as delightful as the original.

How do I make Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake at home?

To make the Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake at home, start by blending together vanilla ice cream, whole milk, mint extract, and green food coloring in a blender until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary. Pour the shake into a glass and top it with whipped cream and a cherry for decoration. You can also sprinkle crushed cookies or chocolate shavings on top for added flavor. Enjoy this festive drink any time of year, not just during St. Patrick’s Day!

Can I use non-dairy alternatives for the Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake?

Yes, you can easily modify the Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake recipe to be non-dairy! Substitute dairy ice cream with coconut or almond milk-based ice cream and use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk. These alternatives maintain a creamy texture without using animal products. Additionally, check that your mint extract is also dairy-free to keep your shake vegan-friendly. With these adjustments, everyone can enjoy this refreshing treat!

What are some variations of Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake?

There are plenty of fun variations for the Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake! You can add chocolate syrup for a mint chocolate flavor or blend in some crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using peppermint schnapps for an adult version of this shake! For those who prefer fruit flavors, adding fresh spinach can give it extra nutrition while keeping that vibrant green color intact. Experimenting with different ingredients will make each shake unique.

Conclusion

In summary, making a Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake at home is both simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients like vanilla ice cream and mint extract, you can recreate this iconic drink anytime you crave it. Don’t hesitate to explore various customizations such as non-dairy options or exciting flavor variations to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with friends and family during special occasions or whenever you’re in the mood for something refreshing!