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The Monster Mash Cookies and Cream Milkshake is a ridiculously fun way to bring Halloween magic into your kitchen. Rich cookies and cream ice cream meets crunchy cookie bits and a spooky green glow for a treat that gets more smiles than any candy bar. Kids and adults both go wild for this sweet holiday spectacle and it takes just five minutes to blend up.
The first time I made this I was decorating for a school party and could not resist swirling in some neon green food coloring. Everyone asked for seconds and now it is our go to Halloween dessert.
Ingredients
- Cookies and cream ice cream: this brings the creamy base and loads of cookie pieces I suggest using the best quality ice cream you can find for extra richness
- Milk: helps get the milkshake to the perfect texture use whole milk for the creamiest result
- Chocolate sandwich cookies: crushed for an extra punch of chocolate flavor reserve a few for garnish and choose a brand with a dark chocolate cookie for the most contrast
- Green food coloring: gives that monster effect start with just a drop or two stir and add more as needed until the color is bright and fun
- Whipped cream: adds height and a soft creamy cap I like making my own but store bought works just fine
- Extra crushed cookies and chocolate syrup: these add a crunchy and chocolatey finish top just before serving so they stay crisp
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Blend the Base:
- Add cookies and cream ice cream and milk to the blender with a couple of drops of green food coloring and most of the crushed cookie pieces Blend on high until the mixture is smooth pale green and every cookie bit is well incorporated
- Taste and Adjust:
- Dip a spoon in for a quick taste test If you want your milkshake thicker add a scoop of ice cream For a thinner texture drizzle in another splash of milk Adjust the food coloring if needed for your desired shade
- Decorate the Glasses:
- Take your serving glasses and drizzle chocolate syrup around the inside rim letting it streak down the sides for a spooky effect You can do this before pouring in the shake for the most dramatic presentation
- Pour and Top:
- Gently pour the milkshake into your decorated glasses leaving a little room at the top Swirl on a tall pile of whipped cream sprinkle over extra cookie crumbs and serve right away while cold and frosty
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My favorite part is letting the kids choose their own toppings seeing the towers of whipped cream and oozing chocolate syrup always brings out the best giggles and the silliest monster faces
Storage Tips
If you have leftover milkshake pour it into popsicle molds and freeze for a fun frozen treat It does not store well in the fridge as it will melt but the popsicle trick works like a charm always
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the cookies and cream ice cream for any vanilla based ice cream and add more crushed cookies for flavor If you want a nutty crunch sprinkle in some chopped chocolate candies or use gluten free sandwich cookies for allergy friendly shakes
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Serving Suggestions
Turn this milkshake into a dessert bar by setting out bowls of sprinkles extra cookies and gummy worms Let everyone build their own Monster Mash creation It also shines as a birthday party treat long after Halloween is over
Cultural Historical Context
Milkshakes have been an American favorite since the 1920s and cookies and cream became a hit when it debuted in ice cream stores in the late 1970s This green monster twist is a nod to the playful spirit of Halloween when classic sweets get a fun costume makeover
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I get the vibrant green color?
Add several drops of green food coloring to the blender and blend until the color is evenly distributed. Adjust as needed for a brighter hue.
- → Can I use homemade cookies and cream ice cream?
Yes, homemade ice cream works well and can add a personalized flavor to your milkshake. Just ensure it’s creamy and easy to blend.
- → What non-dairy milk substitutes work best?
Almond, oat, or soy milk are excellent options. They blend smoothly and complement the cookies and cream flavor.
- → How do I achieve the thickest consistency?
Use less milk for a thicker shake, and blend just until combined. You can also freeze your glasses ahead of time to maintain thickness.
- → Which toppings pair well with this milkshake?
Whipped cream, extra crushed cookies, and a chocolate syrup drizzle add both flavor and visual appeal. Sprinkles or candy eyes can boost the festive look.