I don’t know about you, but that brightly colored Grimace Shake caught my eye as soon as McDonald’s released it. And my kids were over-the-top about it, too, of course!
It was a limited-time offering, so it’s not around anymore (at least for now). Also? I don’t want to pop out to McDonald’s all the time for a shake. So I whipped this one up at home and I’m pretty sure you’re going to agree it’s just as good.
Honestly? It’s actually better.
Why This Recipe Will Shake Things Up
If you’re wondering why this Grimace Shake is superior to the others, we have the answers!
- It’s all natural. You don’t have to worry about any dyes or unnatural ingredients to add color. This berry-flavored shake sports its natural shade from just that — berries.
- Fewer calories. While no shake is exactly touted as a health food go-to, this one is a bit more on the health-conscious side if you substitute frozen yogurt for ice cream.
- Easy. You can make this shake faster than you can hop in the car and hurry to the nearest drive-thru!
Ingredients
These 3 simple ingredients come together to create a brightly colored shake that’s as pretty as it is delicious!
- Vanilla Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt – This is the base that makes this a super creamy and dreamy shake!
- Milk – Milk adds that perfect amount of creaminess to this shake, ensuring it’s smooth and sippable without being too thick. I like to use full-fat milk, but you can choose which variety you want to use, including plant-based versions.
- Frozen Berries – The mix of frozen berries adds a sweet and tangy kick that complements the creamy vanilla base. Don’t forget the blueberries — they’re what gives the drink its signature shade!
How to Make a Grimace Shake
This shake couldn’t be quicker to mix up!
- Blend ingredients. Add all of the ingredients to a high-powered mixer and blend until completely combined.
- Add to glass and garnish. Pour the shake into your favorite glasses. If desired, garnish with a swirl of whipped cream or even some sprinkles. Then serve!
What to Serve With a Grimace Shake
You don’t really need anything to serve with super tasty shaky! But if you’re looking to pair it, try other berry-based recipes like a mixed berry pie, berry cheesecake, or berry cheesecake salad.
You can also dunk colorful homemade cookies into it! A few of our favorites at our house are tie dye cookies, frosted sugar cookies, or monster cookie bars.
Looking to mimic the McD’s experience? You can also sip this shake alongside any type of burger (or other sandwich) and fries!
Variations
Of course, we’re trying to replicate the real deal, so there aren’t a ton of ways to make this shake similar with variations. But if you want to take things up a notch without being totally true to the Grimace Shake spirit there are a few ways to jazz up this simple shake.
- Chocolate – Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup to taste to give the shake a decadent chocolatey twist.
- Bananas – Blend in a ripe banana with the frozen berries for a creamier rendition that has even more natural sweetness.
- Peanut Butter – Add a spoonful of creamy peanut butter to the shake for a rich version packed full of protein.
- Coffee – Mix in a shot of espresso or a tablespoon of instant coffee powder for a caffeinated boost.
- Tropical Flavor – Add chunks of fresh pineapple or mango to the shake for more fruity flavor. Garnish with a slice of pineapple or a wedge of mango for a fun presentation.
Common Questions about a Grimace Shake
In celebration of McDonald’s Grimace character’s 52nd birthday, the iconic fast food chain released a berry-flavored milkshake starting in June in the summer of 2023. The bright hue of this “happy birthday Grimace” milkshake caught everyone’s eyes!
The Grimace Shake was a limited-time offer to honor Grimace’s birthday. That’s why you should learn to make this purple milkshake at home!
Despite what may have spread on social media platforms, like the TikTok trend that took the internet by storm after the release of the Grimace Shake, there’s nothing bad about it. But if you make it at home it can be all-natural and a little more healthy.
Storage and Freezing
We recommend drinking these shakes right away, but if you need to, you can store them in the fridge or freezer.
How to Store a Grimace Shake
I don’t recommend making these ahead of time. However, you can put the ingredients in the blender and store the whole blender in the fridge un-blended until you’re ready to whip them up and serve.
You can store leftover shakes in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You may need to add more ice cream or frozen yogurt when you blend again to get the right consistency.
Can I Freeze a Grimace Shake?
You can freeze this mixture for up to 3 months and toss it back in the blender when you’re ready to serve.
More Fun Drink Recipes
Whether on a hot summer day, as an after dinner treat or even a day starter, a dun drink always puts me in a good mood!
Grimace Shake Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen berries , make sure the mix includes blueberries
Instructions
- Combine the ice cream, milk and berries in a high powered blender and blend on high until fully mixed.
- Pour into malt glasses and top with a dollop of whipped cream.
- If you’ve tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or star ratings.
Video
Nutrition
Recipe is clear and I love the food. Will try this soon. Thanks for sharing
What a refreshing and deliicous drink recipe to try. Thanks for sharing.
I love that you used simple ingredients for this shake. My kids loved it!
Enjoyed this for dessert last night and it was a sweet success! Quick, fun and delicious; my whole family loved it!
This is delicious and easy! The perfect thing to make when my kids are constantly saying they are hungry!