The Best Banana Milkshake: Creamy, Sweet, and Perfectly Refreshing

If you’re craving something cool, creamy, and naturally sweet, this Banana Milkshake is the ultimate treat. It’s rich and silky yet light enough to enjoy any time of day—breakfast, snack, or dessert. The combination of ripe bananas, creamy ice cream, and a splash of milk creates a perfectly balanced shake that’s both indulgent and wholesome. I first made this recipe on a warm afternoon using overripe bananas I didn’t want to waste, and the result was pure comfort in a glass. Every sip tastes like nostalgia—smooth, frothy, and full of classic banana flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana milkshake is incredibly easy to make and ready in just minutes. It’s naturally sweetened by ripe bananas, so you can adjust the sugar to your liking. The texture is luxuriously thick, and the flavor is pure and comforting. You can keep it simple with three ingredients or dress it up with your favorite toppings—chocolate drizzle, whipped cream, or even a scoop of peanut butter. It’s a timeless recipe that works for kids and adults alike.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ripe bananas: The key to the perfect milkshake. The riper they are, the sweeter and creamier your shake will be. Frozen bananas work too for an extra thick texture.

Vanilla ice cream: Gives the shake its creamy richness and dessert-like appeal. I’ve tried it with banana-flavored ice cream too—it doubles down on the flavor beautifully.

Milk: Helps achieve that smooth, drinkable consistency. Whole milk makes it creamy, but almond or oat milk work just as well for a lighter, dairy-free option.

Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the banana’s natural sweetness.

Honey or sugar (optional): If your bananas aren’t very sweet, a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of sugar balances the flavor perfectly.

Ice cubes (optional): Makes the shake colder and frothier without watering it down if blended quickly.

Whipped cream and caramel drizzle (optional): For an irresistible topping that turns a simple shake into a showstopper.

Directions

Peel the bananas and slice them into chunks. Place them in a blender along with vanilla ice cream, milk, vanilla extract, and honey or sugar if using. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, about 30–40 seconds. If you prefer a thicker shake, add more ice cream; for a thinner texture, add a little extra milk.

Pour the milkshake into chilled glasses. Top with whipped cream and drizzle with caramel or chocolate syrup if desired. Serve immediately with a straw or long spoon.

I sometimes freeze my bananas beforehand and skip the ice cream for a lighter, smoothie-style version—it still tastes incredibly creamy and refreshing.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and takes just 5 minutes total—perfect for when you want something quick and satisfying.

Storage/reheating

This milkshake is best enjoyed immediately for the creamiest texture. However, if you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir or re-blend before serving to restore smoothness. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container and blend again before serving for a slushy, frozen treat.

Variations and Customizations

Peanut Butter Banana Milkshake: Add 2 tablespoons of peanut butter for a nutty, protein-packed twist.

Chocolate Banana Milkshake: Blend in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup for a rich chocolate flavor.

Strawberry Banana Milkshake: Add a handful of fresh or frozen strawberries for a fruity combination.

Oreo Banana Shake: Toss in 2 crushed Oreo cookies for a fun, dessert-style shake.

Coffee Banana Milkshake: Add a shot of espresso or a teaspoon of instant coffee for a delicious caffeine kick.

Healthy Protein Shake: Substitute ice cream with Greek yogurt and add a scoop of vanilla protein powder.

Salted Caramel Banana Shake: Blend in caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty balance.

Tropical Twist: Add a splash of coconut milk and a few chunks of pineapple for a beach-inspired shake.

FAQs

Can I make this without ice cream?

Yes, replace ice cream with frozen bananas and milk for a healthier, smoothie-like version.

How can I make the shake thicker?

Use frozen bananas or add extra ice cream to increase creaminess.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free ice cream and plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut.

Do I need to add sugar?

Not necessarily—ripe bananas provide plenty of natural sweetness.

Can I make it ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can refrigerate for up to 24 hours and re-blend before drinking.

What milk works best?

Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but almond, soy, or oat milk work perfectly for lighter versions.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Absolutely—they make the shake extra thick and cold without needing ice cubes.

What toppings go well with banana milkshake?

Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, chocolate shavings, or crushed nuts all work beautifully.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, strawberries, mangoes, or peaches pair wonderfully with banana.

How do I make it low-calorie?

Use skim milk, low-fat yogurt, and skip the ice cream for a lighter but still creamy shake.

Conclusion

The Best Banana Milkshake is everything you want in a classic shake—smooth, creamy, and bursting with natural banana sweetness. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and deliciously refreshing. Whether you enjoy it as an afternoon pick-me-up or a dessert after dinner, every sip feels like a small indulgence. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to satisfy that sweet craving. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this simple milkshake has earned its spot as a timeless favorite.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!