Grimace Shake

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! 

angled shot of grimace shakes


 

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!
angled shot of grimace shake pouring out of blender into milkshake glass

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! 
overhead shot of grimace shake ingredients

How to Make a Grimace Shake

This shake couldn’t be quicker to mix up! 

  1. Blend ingredients. Add all of the ingredients to a high-powered mixer and blend until completely combined. 
  2. 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

overhead shot of grimace shake in blender

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

What is a Grimace milkshake?

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!

Is Grimace Shake still available?

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!

Is the Grimace Shake bad?

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.

straight on shot of two grimace shakes

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!

straight on shot of two grimace shakes with text overlay
angled shot of grimace shakes

Grimace Shake Recipe

5 from 5 votes
Just like the brightly colored treat from McDonald's, this copycat Grimace Shake recipe is easy, delicious and made with only 3 ingredients!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1

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

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Nutrition

Calories: 466 kcal, Carbohydrates: 54 g, Protein: 14 g, Fat: 23 g, Saturated Fat: 14 g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g, Monounsaturated Fat: 6 g, Cholesterol: 87 mg, Sodium: 200 mg, Potassium: 849 mg, Fiber: 4 g, Sugar: 47 g, Vitamin A: 968 IU, Vitamin C: 85 mg, Calcium: 492 mg, Iron: 1 mg
Author: Jessica Formicola
Calories: 466
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: grimace shake
Did you make this recipe?I’d love to see your recipes – snap a picture and mention @savoryexperiments or tag #savoryexperiments!
collage of grimace shake
Jessica Formicola in her ktichen

About the Author

Chef Jessica Anne Formicola

Jessica the mom, wife and chef behind Savory Experiments. You might see her on the Emmy- nominated TV show Plate It! or on bookshelves as a cookbook author. Jessica is a Le Cordon Bleu certified recipe developer and regularly contributed to Parade, Better Homes & Gardens, The Daily Meal, Mashed and more!

Read More About Jessica

5 from 5 votes

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Recipe Rating




Questions and Reviews

  1. 5 stars
    Enjoyed this for dessert last night and it was a sweet success! Quick, fun and delicious; my whole family loved it!

  2. 5 stars
    This is delicious and easy! The perfect thing to make when my kids are constantly saying they are hungry!