Ultimate Cookies & Cream Milkshake

Ultimate Cookies & Cream Milkshake

This recipe aims to replicate the beautiful layered look and rich flavor profile seen in the image, with distinct cookie pieces and a creamy texture.

Yields: 1 large serving Prep time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Milkshake Base:

• 1.5 cups (about 3 large scoops) good quality vanilla ice cream (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk (or your preferred milk for desired thickness)
• 8-10 Oreo cookies (or similar chocolate sandwich cookies), divided
  • 6-7 for blending into the milkshake
  • 2-3 for crushing and layering/topping
• 1-2 tablespoons chocolate syrup (optional, for extra chocolate flavor and darker bottom layer)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances vanilla flavor)
• Pinch of salt (balances sweetness)

For Garnish & Decoration (as seen in image):

• Whipped cream (from a can or homemade)
• Mini chocolate chips
• Additional Oreo cookies (whole or halved)
• Chocolate syrup (for drizzling inside the glass)
• Rainbow sprinkles (optional, for extra color, as seen scattered around)
• Drinking straw

Equipment:

• Blender
• Tall milkshake glass (as pictured)
• Spoon or spatula
• Small bowl or bag for crushing cookies

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Glass (Optional, for visual effect): * Take your tall milkshake glass. Drizzle chocolate syrup around the inside walls of the glass in a decorative pattern. This will create the appealing dark streaks seen in the bottom portion of the milkshake. * Place the glass in the freezer for a few minutes to help the syrup set and keep the milkshake colder.

2. Prepare the Cookies: * Take 6-7 Oreo cookies and break them into smaller pieces. These will go into the blender. * Take the remaining 2-3 Oreo cookies. For the bottom layer’s “chunky” appearance and the top garnish, you’ll want some crushed pieces. You can crush them roughly in a small bowl with the back of a spoon or place them in a Ziploc bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or your hands. Set aside some larger chunks for the bottom and smaller crumbs for the top.

3. Make the Chocolate Cookie Layer (Bottom Layer): * In your blender, combine: * About 1 cup of vanilla ice cream * 1/4 cup of whole milk * 4-5 of the broken Oreo cookies * 1-2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup (if using) * A tiny splash of vanilla extract (if using) * Blend on low speed, gradually increasing, until just combined and still slightly thick. You want visible cookie pieces, not a completely smooth texture. Avoid over-blending, or it will become too thin. * Pour this chocolate cookie mixture into the prepared glass, filling it about halfway. * Optional: Add a few of the larger crushed Oreo chunks on top of this layer for more distinct cookie bites.

4. Make the Vanilla Cookie Layer (Top Layer): * Rinse your blender quickly or use a second one if available. * In the blender, combine: * Remaining 0.5 cup of vanilla ice cream * Remaining 1/4 cup of whole milk * Remaining 2-3 broken Oreo cookies * Remaining splash of vanilla extract (if using) * Pinch of salt * Blend on low speed until just combined. This layer should be lighter in color and still have visible cookie specks, as shown in the image. You can even leave slightly larger chunks here if you like. * Carefully spoon or pour this vanilla cookie mixture over the chocolate cookie layer in the glass, filling it to the top. The image shows the two layers distinctly separated, which can be achieved by making the bottom layer slightly thicker and chilling the glass, and then gently adding the second layer.

5. Garnish and Serve: * Generously top the milkshake with a swirl of whipped cream. * Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the whipped cream. * Place whole or halved Oreo cookies strategically on top of the whipped cream, as shown in the image. * If desired, sprinkle some rainbow sprinkles around the base of the glass on your serving surface for the “scattered” effect. * Insert a decorative straw.

Tips for Success and Variations:

• Ice Cream Quality: High-quality, full-fat vanilla ice cream will give you the creamiest and richest milkshake.
• Milk Adjustment: Adjust the amount of milk based on your desired thickness. For a thicker milkshake, use less milk; for a thinner shake, use more.
• Cookie Texture: Control how finely you crush or blend your Oreos. For more texture, blend less and add some larger chunks.
• Layer Separation: To achieve distinct layers, ensure the first layer is quite thick and perhaps chill the glass with the first layer in it for a few minutes before adding the second. Gently pour or spoon the second layer over the first.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling chocolate syrup inside the glass before adding the milkshake creates those appealing streaks.
• Flavor Boosts: A tiny pinch of salt can really enhance the sweetness and chocolate flavor. A touch of vanilla extract in both layers boosts the overall vanilla notes.
• Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream, plant-based milk, and vegan-friendly chocolate sandwich cookies and whipped cream.
• Different Cookies: While Oreos are classic, you could experiment with other chocolate or even peanut butter cookies.

Enjoy your delicious and visually stunning Cookies & Cream Milkshake!