Dairy-Free Milkshakes: How to Make Thick, Creamy Vegan Shakes
A milkshake should be so thick that the straw stands up on its own. The good news is that you do not need dairy to get there. With the right plant milk, a good vegan ice cream and a couple of tricks, dairy-free shakes can be every bit as creamy as the diner version.
The basic formula
For one big shake:
- 3 generous scoops of vegan ice cream (about 250 g)
- 120 ml cold plant milk
- Flavourings of your choice
Blend for 20 to 30 seconds, no more. Over-blending warms the ice cream and makes the shake thin.
Want it thicker? Use less milk. Want it lighter? Add a splash more. That is really all there is to it.
The best plant milks for shakes
- Oat milk – creamy, slightly sweet and the most "milky" tasting. The all-rounder.
- Soy milk – rich and high in protein, with a neutral flavour that works with everything.
- Coconut milk drink – adds tropical richness. Great for banana, pineapple and chocolate shakes.
- Almond milk – lighter and nutty. Better in fruity shakes than in rich chocolate ones.
Full-fat or "barista" versions make thicker, creamier shakes.
Choosing a vegan ice cream
Most supermarkets now stock vegan ice creams made from oat, soy, coconut or almond. Vanilla is the most useful base because you can turn it into any flavour. If you cannot find one, freeze sliced ripe bananas and blend them with a splash of milk for "nice cream". It makes a surprisingly thick shake.
Five shakes to try
Classic vanilla. Vanilla ice cream, oat milk and a few drops of vanilla extract. Simple and perfect.
Double chocolate. Chocolate or vanilla ice cream, soy milk, 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and a drizzle of melted dark chocolate inside the glass.
Peanut butter and banana. Vanilla ice cream, half a frozen banana, 1 heaped tablespoon of peanut butter and oat milk. Add a spoon of cocoa for a peanut butter cup vibe.
Strawberry. Vanilla ice cream, a handful of frozen strawberries and soy milk. Frozen fruit keeps it thick.
Iced mocha. Chocolate ice cream, a shot of cooled espresso and oat milk. Dessert and caffeine in one glass.
Make it look the part
- Chill your glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving.
- Swirl chocolate or caramel sauce around the inside of the glass.
- Top with whipped coconut cream, sprinkles, crushed biscuits or a cherry.
Common shake mistakes
- Too much milk. Start with less. You can always add more.
- Over-blending. It melts the ice cream.
- Warm ingredients. Everything should be cold, ideally frozen.
More shakes, burgers and treats
Shakes are better with a burger and fries on the side, which is exactly why Burgers, Shakes and Fries exists: plant-based versions of the classic fast-food feast. For more sweet treats, Vegan Desserts – Never Say No has everything from chocolate cakes to fruit tarts.
And if your favourite shake is the iced mocha, you will want Coffee-a-Holic – No Shame. Happiness Begins with Bru on your shelf.
