If you’re craving something festive, creamy, and utterly delicious, you have to try this Chick Fil A Peppermint Milkshake Recipe. It perfectly balances the smooth richness of vanilla ice cream with a refreshing peppermint twist, all wrapped up in a delightful rosy pink hue. This shake is more than just a drink—it’s a holiday treat that feels like a sweet, cool hug in a glass, ideal for sharing with friends or treating yourself on any chilly day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chick Fil A Peppermint Milkshake Recipe lies in its simplicity and the magic each ingredient brings to your glass. Every element is thoughtfully chosen to build creamy texture, vibrant color, and that perfect peppermint punch.
- Vanilla ice cream: This is the creamy foundation that creates the smooth and luxurious body of the milkshake.
- Whole milk: Adds the right amount of fluidity so the shake blends perfectly without being too thick or too thin.
- Peppermint extract: Delivers the cool, refreshing mint flavor that makes this milkshake stand out.
- Red food coloring drop: Gives the milkshake its charming pink hue, reminiscent of peppermint candies.
- 60% cocoa chocolate bar: Used for grating fresh chocolate shavings that add a subtle bittersweet depth and texture.
- Crushed candy canes: Provides a crunchy peppermint pop that’s both festive and flavorful.
- Whipped topping: A fluffy finish that adds lightness and a pleasing contrast to the milkshake’s texture.
- Stemmed maraschino cherries: Classic garnishes that brighten the presentation and add a touch of sweetness.
How to Make Chick Fil A Peppermint Milkshake Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Base
Start by adding the rich vanilla ice cream, smooth whole milk, and refreshing peppermint extract to a large blender. Pulse everything together until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy with no lumps. This forms the velvety base of your shake, where flavors begin to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Color It Pink
Next, carefully add 4 to 6 drops of red food coloring to the blender. Blend again until the color is evenly distributed and you achieve a lovely pale pink shade. If you want an even more pronounced rosy color, feel free to add a bit more coloring, one drop at a time. This step not only makes the shake visually stunning but also brings that signature holiday look.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Shavings and Candy Cane Crunch
While your shake base is ready, take your 60% cocoa chocolate bar and grate it finely using a cheese grater. These delicate shavings will melt a little upon contact, giving the milkshake hints of rich, bittersweet chocolate. Next, crush your candy canes into small pieces for a sparkling mint crunch. The contrast between creamy and crunchy creates a delightful texture sensation.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Pour your peppermint milkshake into pretty glass jars or tall glasses, then sprinkle in the chocolate shavings, allowing them to float whimsically in the pink milkshake. Top each glass generously with fluffy whipped topping and place a stemmed maraschino cherry on top for the classic look. Serve immediately with a fun straw and enjoy the magic you’ve created!
How to Serve Chick Fil A Peppermint Milkshake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your milkshake’s appearance and flavor with a swirl of whipped topping and a stemmed maraschino cherry. For a festive touch, you can also rim the glass with crushed candy cane pieces for extra sparkle and sweetness. These little additions turn a simple shake into a dessert that’s Instagram-worthy and irresistible.
Side Dishes
This peppermint milkshake pairs beautifully with simple holiday treats like sugar cookies, gingerbread, or even a warm slice of chocolate cake. The cool minty shake balances sweet desserts while keeping the palate refreshed. It’s also a fun sidekick to spicy snacks or salty popcorn if you’re throwing a festive party.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful presentation, serve your shake in vintage soda glasses or mason jars tied with red and white twine. You could also add a candy cane as a stir stick or lay a small peppermint bark piece alongside the glass. These creative touches make serving this shake feel celebratory and special, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Because this milkshake contains dairy and peppermint, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but storing briefly helps retain as much creamy flavor as possible.
Freezing
You can freeze the milkshake mixture before blending if you want to prep in advance. Simply combine the ice cream, milk, and peppermint extract, then freeze in a sealable container. When ready to serve, thaw slightly and blend again with food coloring and garnishes. Keep in mind, once blended and garnished, freezing will alter the texture.
Reheating
Milkshakes aren’t meant to be reheated, but if you want to enjoy the flavor warm, dip a spoon in the mix and savor it directly or melt the chocolate shavings over warm desserts inspired by this recipe. Otherwise, stick to serving chilled for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint candy instead of peppermint extract?
While peppermint extract gives the cleanest, most concentrated flavor, you can use crushed peppermint candies infused into warm milk, then cooled before blending. However, this may add a bit of extra sweetness and texture, so adjust the recipe accordingly.
Is there a non-dairy version of the Chick Fil A Peppermint Milkshake Recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute vanilla dairy-free ice cream and a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. The peppermint and chocolate shavings still shine through, making a tasty vegan-friendly treat.
How strong is the peppermint flavor?
The peppermint flavor is refreshing but not overpowering, thanks to the balanced 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. You can adjust the amount to suit your preference if you want it more minty or subtle.
Can I make this recipe without food coloring?
Yes, the food coloring is optional and purely for visual appeal. Your milkshake will taste just as wonderful without it, though it won’t have the charming pink color associated with the classic Chick Fil A Peppermint Milkshake Recipe.
What’s the best way to crush candy canes?
Place the candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or kitchen mallet. This gives you control over how big or fine the pieces are, so you can get just the right peppermint crunch.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the scoop on this delightful Chick Fil A Peppermint Milkshake Recipe, I encourage you to whip up a batch and experience the joy it brings. With its creamy texture, cool peppermint punch, and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite treat during the holidays and beyond. Trust me, sharing this with friends or savoring it solo will make your days a little sweeter and oh so festive.
Print
Chick Fil A Peppermint Milkshake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 milkshakes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chick Fil A Peppermint Milkshake is a festive and creamy treat perfect for the holiday season. Combining rich vanilla ice cream, a hint of peppermint extract, and a touch of red food coloring for a festive pink hue, it’s topped with chocolate shavings, whipped cream, and a maraschino cherry for an indulgent experience. This milkshake is simple to make and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Milkshake Ingredients
- 4 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 4–6 drops red food coloring
Toppings
- 4 oz 60% cocoa chocolate bar (shaved)
- 10 candy canes or 4 regular sized candy canes (crushed)
- Whipped topping
- Stemmed maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Blend Base Ingredients: Add the vanilla ice cream, whole milk, and peppermint extract into a large blender. Pulse until the mixture is fully combined and smooth, ensuring the ice cream is incorporated evenly with the milk and peppermint flavor.
- Add Color: Add 4-6 drops of red food coloring to the blended mixture. Mix again until the color is evenly distributed. Add more food coloring if you want a deeper pink shade for a more vibrant, festive look.
- Prepare Chocolate Shavings: Using a cheese grater, carefully shave bits of the 60% cocoa chocolate bar to create delicate chocolate shavings for topping the milkshake.
- Assemble and Serve: Pour the finished milkshake mixture into glass jars or serving glasses. Sprinkle in the chocolate shavings and crushed candy canes, then top with a generous swirl of whipped topping. Finish with a stemmed maraschino cherry on top and serve with a straw.
Notes
- Adjust peppermint extract according to taste if you prefer a stronger or milder peppermint flavor.
- Use whole milk for creamier texture; for a lighter option, substitute with 2% or skim milk, though the shake may be less rich.
- Crushing candy canes adds a nice crunch and festive look; ensure pieces are small enough for easy sipping if desired.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the vanilla ice cream and milk with plant-based alternatives.
