Banana Split Milkshakes!

Decadent Banana Split Milkshake

This recipe aims for a thick, creamy milkshake with all the classic banana split toppings, including whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a crunchy topping.

Yields: 2 servings Prep time: 10-15 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Milkshake Base:

• 2 large, ripe bananas (preferably frozen in slices for a thicker shake)
• 2 cups (approx. 480ml) vanilla ice cream
• 1/2 cup (approx. 120ml) whole milk (or your preferred milk, adjust for desired consistency)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, depending on ripeness of bananas and sweetness of ice cream)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Toppings (as pictured):

• Whipped Cream:
  • 1 cup (approx. 240ml) heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Caramel Drizzle:
  • Store-bought caramel sauce, or homemade (recipe below if desired)
• Crunchy Topping:
  • 1/4 cup granola, chopped nuts (peanuts, walnuts, or pecans work well), or crushed butter cookies/graham crackers
• Banana Slices (for garnish):
  • 1/2 a fresh banana, sliced into rounds

Equipment:

• Blender
• 2 tall milkshake or sundae glasses
• Electric mixer or whisk (for whipped cream)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Whipped Cream (if making fresh): * In a cold bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. * Using an electric mixer (or whisk by hand), beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, or it will turn into butter. * Set aside in the refrigerator.

2. Prepare the Milkshake Base: * If using fresh bananas, peel and slice them. If using frozen, take them out of the freezer. * Add the sliced bananas, vanilla ice cream, milk, granulated sugar (if using), and vanilla extract to your blender. * Blend on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy. If the milkshake is too thick, add a tiny bit more milk (1 tablespoon at a time) until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add another scoop of ice cream.

3. Assemble the Milkshakes: * Caramel Drizzle in Glass: Before pouring the milkshake, take your tall glasses and drizzle caramel sauce down the inside walls of each glass. This creates the beautiful streaks seen in the photo. * Pour Milkshake: Carefully pour the prepared banana milkshake into each of the caramel-lined glasses, filling them almost to the top. * Add Whipped Cream: Generously pipe or spoon a large mound of whipped cream on top of each milkshake. * More Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle more caramel sauce over the whipped cream. * Add Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle the granola, nuts, or crushed cookies over the caramel and whipped cream. * Garnish with Banana Slices: Arrange a few fresh banana slices on top of the whipped cream.

4. Serve Immediately: * Serve your decadent banana split milkshakes immediately with a straw and a long spoon!

Optional Additions & Variations:

• Chocolate Sauce: For a classic banana split flavor, you can also drizzle chocolate sauce inside the glass and on top.
• Pineapple Topping: A spoonful of crushed pineapple on top would also be delicious.
• Cherries: A maraschino cherry or two on top would complete the classic look.
• Peanut Butter: For an “Elvis Sundae” twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of peanut butter to the milkshake base before blending.
• Boozy Adult Version: Add a shot of rum or banana liqueur to the blender for an adult treat.

Enjoy your homemade Banana Split Milkshakes!