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This coffee milkshake turns a classic treat into an energizing, creamy delight with chocolatey undertones and just the right dose of coffee. It is perfect for cooling down in the summer or as an afternoon perk-me-up when you want something sweet and satisfying but with a little pick-me-up. This simple recipe delivers a café-style dessert in minutes right at home.
I accidentally perfected this recipe while rushing through a busy afternoon I now crave it when I need a cooling treat that wakes me up and always keep ice cream and coffee stocked for it
Ingredients
- Cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor Choose a high quality unsweetened cocoa for best taste
- Instant coffee or espresso powder: Brings in that signature coffee kick Pick a brand you enjoy drinking as the flavor will shine through
- Vanilla ice cream: The secret to a lush creamy base Go for a classic vanilla bean ice cream with fewer additives for a better texture
- Milk or cold coffee: Provides the liquid component Whole milk lends richer results or use strong chilled coffee if you like bolder coffee taste Make sure either is very cold for the frothiest shake
- Whipped cream: Finishes everything with a fluffy topping I usually whip my own for a fresher flavor but canned works too
- Fudge sauce: Turns the glass into a treat with ribbons of chocolate Try to use a thick good quality sauce so it sticks to the glass
- Chocolate shavings: Adds a hint of luxury to every sip Use a microplane or a sharp peeler and choose a good bar chocolate
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Blend cocoa powder and instant coffee in the bottom of your blender so they mix uniformly with the liquid and dissolve fully
- Add Ice Cream and Liquid:
- Scoop ice cream into the blender and pour in the milk or chilled coffee Use less liquid for a thick shake a little more for a sippable one
- Blend Smooth:
- Blend everything on high speed until completely smooth Scrape down the sides to make sure there are no pockets of cocoa or ice cream left unblended
- Prepare the Glass:
- Drizzle fudge sauce in and around the inside of your serving glass if you love a chocolatey finish Let it stick for a dramatic look
- Pour and Garnish:
- Pour the milkshake into your glass Top generously with whipped cream Sprinkle over the chocolate shavings and add an extra drizzle of fudge sauce if you like
- Serve Immediately:
- Enjoy your coffee milkshake right away while it is icy thick and fresh
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My favorite part is swirling the fudge sauce in the glass My kids and I love turning it into a mini art project before pouring in the shake and watching the patterns melt into every sip
Storage Tips
This milkshake is best enjoyed fresh If you need to make it ahead blend everything without the toppings and keep it in the freezer for one hour Stir or re-blend before serving as it may settle or freeze solid if left much longer
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap vanilla ice cream for coffee or chocolate ice cream for an even bolder flavor Oat milk or almond milk make great dairy free versions and taste especially good if you use an intensely flavored coffee
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Serving Suggestions
Serve in tall chilled glasses with extra whipped cream and chocolate drizzle for a sundae-style treat Top with a cherry or even a dusting of cinnamon for a fun twist It pairs well with crisp cookies or biscotti on the side
Cultural Context
Coffee milkshakes are a nostalgic treat inspired by classic American diners where milkshakes often double as dessert and beverage all at once The addition of instant coffee or cold brewed coffee gives this modern take a grown up twist without needing a barista
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?
Yes, you can replace instant coffee with chilled leftover brewed coffee. Use it as the liquid base for a pronounced coffee flavor.
- → How do I make the milkshake thicker or thinner?
Use less milk or coffee for a thicker texture and more for a lighter, sippable shake. Start with 1/2 cup and adjust as preferred.
- → Is it necessary to add cocoa powder?
Cocoa powder adds rich chocolate notes, but you can omit it for a pure coffee taste if desired.
- → What toppings work well?
Classic choices include whipped cream, fudge sauce drizzle, and chocolate shavings for added flavor and visual appeal.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free ice cream and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk for a plant-based treat.
- → How do I intensify the coffee flavor?
Increase the amount of instant coffee or espresso powder up to a tablespoon for a stronger, bolder flavor.