If you have a soft spot for classic ice cream shop treats, you absolutely must try this delightful Banana Split Milkshake Recipe. It transforms the nostalgic joy of a banana split into a smooth, creamy drink that’s bursting with all the flavors you love—ripe bananas, rich vanilla ice cream, luscious chocolate and strawberry syrups, plus a hint of tropical pineapple. Whether you’re looking for an indulgent afternoon pick-me-up or a fun dessert to share, this shake is guaranteed to hit all the right notes and bring smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Banana Split Milkshake Recipe is wonderfully straightforward. Each one plays a key role in building the iconic flavor profile, from the creamy vanilla ice cream that forms the base to the fresh bananas that add natural sweetness and texture.
- Ripe bananas: Choose bananas that are soft and speckled for maximum sweetness and smooth blending.
- Vanilla ice cream: This creamy classic provides the perfect rich base for the shake.
- Milk: Adds a luscious liquid texture to help everything blend seamlessly.
- Chocolate syrup: Brings that signature deep cocoa flavor reminiscent of a banana split sundae.
- Strawberry syrup: Adds a bright, fruity contrast and vibrant color.
- Crushed pineapple: Introduces a tropical tang and refreshing texture.
- Whipped cream: For a fluffy, creamy topping that feels just like dessert.
- Maraschino cherry: The classic finishing touch that’s both sweet and visually appealing.
How to Make Banana Split Milkshake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
Start by peeling your ripe bananas and slicing them into small chunks. The smaller pieces help the blender work its magic and ensure your milkshake has no large lumps.
Step 2: Combine Base Ingredients
Drop the banana chunks into your blender. Then add the two cups of vanilla ice cream and pour in one cup of milk. This trio forms the creamy, dreamy foundation of your milkshake.
Step 3: Add the Syrups and Pineapple
Pour in the chocolate syrup followed by the strawberry syrup. Spoon in the crushed pineapple last to keep its tropical burst intact. These layers of flavor come together to recreate the classic banana split taste.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Seal your blender’s lid tightly and blend everything on medium speed. Aim for a perfectly smooth and well-mixed texture with no large chunks. If your shake is too thick, gently add a splash more milk until you find the consistency that feels just right.
Step 5: Pour and Garnish
Once blended, pour your milkshake into tall glasses. Top each with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a bright maraschino cherry. This final touch elevates the presentation and taste, just like your favorite sundae.
How to Serve Banana Split Milkshake Recipe
Garnishes
Whipped cream and a maraschino cherry are classic, but you can also add some chopped nuts, rainbow sprinkles, or even a drizzle of extra chocolate or strawberry syrup around the glass rim for a playful twist.
Side Dishes
This milkshake pairs wonderfully with crispy waffle fries or light butter cookies. The salty crunch or buttery sweetness complements the creamy drink to make a snack time treat or light dessert combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Banana Split Milkshake Recipe in mason jars or retro soda fountain glasses for a nostalgic vibe. You can also layer the syrups inside the glass before pouring the shake for a colorful swirl effect that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because this milkshake is best fresh, leftovers are not ideal. If you must keep some, store it in an airtight container in the fridge and stir well before drinking, though you might notice some separation.
Freezing
Freeze any extra milkshake in ice cube trays to pop into smoothies later, or to slowly thaw for a tasty, chilled treat. Avoid freezing full glasses, as texture may suffer once thawed.
Reheating
This banana split milkshake is meant to be enjoyed cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. If you want a warm twist, try blending the ingredients with a bit of warm milk to recreate the flavors in a creamy hot drink.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this Banana Split Milkshake Recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work great and make the milkshake even creamier and colder without watering it down. Just peel and slice them before freezing.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute vanilla dairy-free ice cream and your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. The flavor will still be deliciously rich.
Can I make a single serving of this milkshake?
Definitely. Simply halve the ingredients and adjust the quantities to your desired portion size. It blends the same way and tastes just as good!
How thick should the milkshake be?
It should be thick and creamy enough to sip through a straw but not too thick that it feels like eating ice cream. Adjust milk quantity to reach your personal preference.
Can I add other fruits to this Banana Split Milkshake Recipe?
Of course! Strawberries and cherries work beautifully and add even more freshness. Just keep the balance so the classic flavor shines through.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you whip up this Banana Split Milkshake Recipe, it’s going to become a go-to for your dessert cravings and warm weather treats. The combination of flavors is nostalgic, fun, and incredibly satisfying. So grab your blender, invite some friends or family, and make this delightful shake a happy little tradition in your own home!
Print
Banana Split Milkshake Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 5m
- Cook Time: 0h 0m
- Total Time: 0h 5m
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and delicious Banana Split Milkshake combining ripe bananas, vanilla ice cream, and a blend of chocolate, strawberry syrup, and crushed pineapple for a nostalgic and refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Milkshake Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
- 1/4 cup strawberry syrup
- 1/4 cup crushed pineapple
Toppings
- 1 tablespoon whipped cream
- 1 maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Prepare Bananas: Peel the two ripe bananas and cut them into small chunks to ensure smooth blending.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the banana chunks into a blender along with two cups of vanilla ice cream, one cup of milk, a quarter cup each of chocolate syrup, strawberry syrup, and crushed pineapple.
- Blend Mixture: Secure the blender lid tightly and blend the mixture on medium speed until it becomes smooth and well combined.
- Adjust Consistency: Check the thickness of the milkshake; add more milk if it’s too thick to reach your preferred consistency, then blend briefly again.
- Serve: Pour the milkshake evenly into two tall glasses.
- Add Toppings: Top each glass with one tablespoon of whipped cream and garnish with one maraschino cherry.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately with straws for a refreshing and nostalgic banana split milkshake experience.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Adjust milk quantity to customize thickness.
- Crushed pineapple adds a unique tropical twist – fresh or canned pineapple can be used.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute ice cream and milk with vegan alternatives.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
