Easy Banana Milkshake Recipe: A Creamy Treat
This banana milkshake recipe is a quick solution for busy afternoons.
It’s a kid-approved snack that’s ready in minutes, allowing you to customize each serving to individual tastes without the hassle of baking.
Why This Banana Milkshake Is a Lifesaver for Busy Parents
Banana milkshakes are an absolute hit in my house—my kids adore them, and I honestly prefer making these over spending an hour baking a cake after school.
It’s fast, mess-free, and makes everyone happy in seconds. With my small smoothie maker, I whip up a custom shake for each of my kids.
One loves raisins in hers, another insists on chocolate or crushed biscuits, and the eldest? He’s all about speculoos or Oreos.
Everyone has their own little craving, and this milkshake is the perfect blank canvas to please them all.
No complaints, no drama—just happy faces and empty glasses. It’s a real time-saver after lunch, and honestly, it feels good knowing I’ve made them something they love with so little effort.
Oh, and I’m finally sharing a fun little video my son made for school last year—he finally said yes to posting it! Trust me, this banana milkshake is pure comfort in a glass.
What You Need to Make the Perfect Banana Milkshake
- 2 large ripe bananas : Choose bananas with brown spots for the best natural sweetness and smooth texture.
- 2 cups of milk : Use whole milk for richness, or opt for almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract : Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the banana and ice cream combo.
- A dash of ground cinnamon : Just a pinch brings a cozy spice note that complements the banana perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice : Helps balance the sweetness and keeps the banana from browning.
- 6 giant scoops of vanilla ice cream : The star ingredient that gives this shake its creamy, dreamy texture. Use your favorite brand for best results.
- For serving (optional): whipped cream, ground cinnamon : Top with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a deliciously tempting finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Banana Milkshake
- Slice the banana : Cut your ripe banana into 1-inch pieces and place them at the bottom of your blender. This helps it blend more evenly and quickly.
- Add the liquids and spice : Pour in the milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. These ingredients enhance the banana flavor and balance the sweetness.
- Add the ice cream last : Scoop in the vanilla ice cream on top of the liquid mixture. This prevents the ice cream from sticking to the blender blades.
- Blend until smooth : Blend everything on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If the shake is too thick or seizes up due to cold ingredients, add small splashes of milk to loosen it.
- Serve and enjoy : Divide the milkshake between two glasses. For a little extra flair, top with whipped cream and a light sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Delicious Variations & Add-Ins for Your Banana Milkshake
Give your classic banana milkshake a fun twist by adding different flavors and textures to suit every taste in the family!
– Chocolate Lovers’ Twist
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey treat.
- Blend in a handful of chocolate chips or chunks for texture.
- Top with chocolate shavings or drizzle extra syrup on the whipped cream.
– Cookie Crumble
- Toss in 2–3 crushed Oreos, digestive biscuits, or speculoos for a cookies-and-cream vibe.
- Blend lightly for chunks or fully for a smoother taste.
– Kid-Friendly Raisin Blend
- Add a small handful of raisins with the banana before blending.
- Optionally soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes to soften them.
– Coffee Banana Milkshake (For the Grown-Ups)
- Add 1 shot of espresso or 1 teaspoon of instant coffee dissolved in a bit of hot water.
- Great for a morning pick-me-up or afternoon treat.
– Peanut Butter Banana Shake
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of creamy or crunchy peanut butter.
- This makes the shake extra rich and satisfying—also adds some protein!
– Berry Banana Shake
- Toss in a handful of fresh or frozen strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
- You can also use a mixed berry blend for a vibrant flavor.
– Tropical Vibes
- Replace regular milk with coconut milk and add a bit of shredded coconut.
- Optional: blend in some pineapple chunks for a piña colada-style shake.
– Health Boosters
- Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra fiber.
- Throw in a handful of spinach—banana masks the taste perfectly!
- Use Greek yogurt instead of ice cream for a lighter, protein-packed version.
Other recipes for an easy snack
Creamy Banana Milkshake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe bananas
- 2 cups of milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A dash of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 6 giant scoops of vanilla ice cream
- For serving optional: whipped cream, ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Cut your ripe banana into 1-inch pieces and place them at the bottom of your blender. This helps it blend more evenly and quickly.
- Pour in the milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. These ingredients enhance the banana flavor and balance the sweetness.
- Scoop in the vanilla ice cream on top of the liquid mixture. This prevents the ice cream from sticking to the blender blades.
- Blend everything on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If the shake is too thick or seizes up due to cold ingredients, add small splashes of milk to loosen it.
- Divide the milkshake between two glasses. For a little extra flair, top with whipped cream and a light sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
