Description
Strawberry Cheesecake Milkshake
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
1 cup vanilla ice cream
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Whipped cream (for topping)
1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (for garnish)
Fresh strawberries (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Blend the Milkshake: In a blender, combine the strawberries, vanilla ice cream, milk, cream cheese, and sugar. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Prepare the Glasses: Pour the milkshake into tall glasses.
3. Add Whipped Cream: Top each glass with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the whipped cream and add a fresh strawberry on top.
5. Serve Immediately: Insert a straw and enjoy your creamy, fruity milkshake.
#StrawberryMilkshake #CheesecakeMilkshake
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for the perfect milkshake every time. First, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for at least 30 minutes; this prevents lumps. Wash, hull, and roughly chop your fresh strawberries. For an extra cold and thick shake, place your glasses in the freezer while you prepare the ingredients. Add the strawberries, ice cream, milk, softened cream cheese, and sugar to your blender. Secure the lid tightly. Start blending on low speed for 10 seconds to combine, then increase to high speed for 30-45 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth with no streaks of cream cheese. Stop and scrape down the sides if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
This decadent milkshake is a dessert in itself. For a special presentation, rim the glasses by dipping the tops in a little honey or strawberry syrup and then into the graham cracker crumbs before pouring. Serve with a long spoon and a straw. It pairs wonderfully with a simple shortbread cookie on the side. For an adult version, a splash of vanilla vodka or strawberry liqueur can be added to the blender.
How-to Summary
To make a Strawberry Cheesecake Milkshake: Soften cream cheese. Blend fresh strawberries, vanilla ice cream, milk, the softened cream cheese, and sugar until smooth. Pour into chilled glasses, top with whipped cream, and garnish with graham cracker crumbs and a fresh strawberry. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, you can. Using frozen strawberries will make the milkshake thicker and colder. There’s no need to adjust other ingredients, but you may omit the ice if using a large quantity.
What can I use instead of cream cheese? For a slightly different flavor, mascarpone cheese is an excellent substitute. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan cream cheese alternative.
My milkshake is too thick. How can I thin it? Simply add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, and blend again until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best served immediately. If you must prepare ahead, blend everything except the ice cream and store the mixture in the fridge. Just before serving, re-blend with the ice cream.
Is there a way to make this less sweet? Absolutely. Reduce the granulated sugar to 2 tablespoons, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to taste. The ripeness of your strawberries will also affect sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold, hard cream cheese straight from the fridge, which will result in a lumpy shake.
- Over-blending, which can incorporate too much air and melt the ice cream, making the shake thin and frothy.
- Using watery or low-fat milk, which can dilute the rich, creamy texture. Whole milk is recommended.
- Skipping the garnish. The graham cracker crumbs are essential for the authentic “cheesecake” flavor and texture contrast.
- Letting the blended shake sit before serving, as it will separate and become watery.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Cheesecake Milkshake is the ultimate fusion of a classic dessert and a refreshing drink. It’s surprisingly simple to make yet delivers an impressive and indulgent result. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a perfectly creamy, fruity, and satisfying treat that captures the essence of cheesecake in a glass. Perfect for a hot day, a special occasion, or whenever a creamy dessert craving strikes.