Homemade Strawberry Milkshake is a perfect drink to chill on a hot day. This simple recipe takes 40 minutes but that includes 30 minutes of it macerating. I make these in advance and pop in the fridge as they are also a superb light and refreshing dessert. Strawberry Milkshakes are ideal if like me, you have an abundance of strawberries growing in pots on the patio. This recipe can also be used for raspberries and blueberries.
A homemade strawberry milkshake reminds me of warm summer afternoons when a simple drink could turn into a little treat for everyone. Because the strawberries do most of the work, you do not need a long list of ingredients or complicated equipment. In fact, a good blender and a handful of fresh strawberries are almost all you need.
The short wait while the strawberries macerate is well worth it. During this time, the sugar draws out their natural juices and creates a lovely strawberry syrup. As a result, the finished milkshake has a much deeper flavour than one made with strawberries thrown straight into the blender. I also like adding a little vanilla because it brings out the sweetness without overpowering the fruit.
When strawberries are at their best, this is a great way to use a generous punnet. Choose berries that smell sweet and look bright red, as these usually give the best flavour. However, do not worry if some of the strawberries look slightly less than perfect. Once you remove the green tops, any soft spots can simply be trimmed away.
The milkshake is lovely served straight from the blender, especially when you want something thick and creamy. Alternatively, chill it for a little while if you prefer a colder and more refreshing drink. I find that a tall glass works beautifully, particularly when topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry.
There are also plenty of easy ways to make this recipe your own. For example, you can add a few raspberries alongside the strawberries for a sharper fruit flavour. A handful of blueberries works well too, while a little extra vanilla gives the drink an almost dessert-like richness. For chocolate lovers, a small drizzle of chocolate sauce inside the glass makes a delicious addition.
This milkshake is not just for hot weather either. It makes a cheerful breakfast treat, a simple afternoon pick-me-up, or a quick dessert after dinner. Children usually love helping with the preparation, although I always keep an eye on the blender.
Most importantly, homemade strawberry milkshake tastes fresh, creamy and full of real fruit. It takes very little effort, yet it feels like something special. So, when strawberries are plentiful, keep this recipe close at hand and enjoy a glass whenever you fancy a little taste of summer.
Homemade Strawberry Milkshake
Ingredients
- 250 g strawberries See Note
- 3 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1 tbsp caster sugar
- 300 ml milk semi/half
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Wash the strawberries and pat dry.250 g strawberries
- Remove the core of the strawberries and cut into quarters.
- Add the strawberries, sugar and vanilla extract to a mixing bowl and stir to combine. Leave at room temperature for the mixture to interact. Put to one side for now but stir/toss every 10 minutes.1 tbsp caster sugar, ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Add the ice cream and milk to a blender and carefully pour the strawberry mixture in as well. Make sure you get all of those lovely juices.3 scoops vanilla ice cream, 300 ml milk
- Blitz the mixture until lovely and smooth and pour into serving glasses/jars.
- Pop into the fridge to chill.
- Serve with a squirt of whipped cream and a few extra strawberries.Whipped cream