This Pumpkin Milkshake is creamy, sweet, and perfect for fall! With real pumpkin, ice cream, and warm spices, it’s like sipping a piece of pumpkin pie.
You’ll want to make this all season long! I love adding whipped cream on top for that cozy touch. Trust me; it makes everything better! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Pumpkin Puree: This is the star of the show! You can use homemade pumpkin puree if you prefer, just make sure it’s smooth. For a different twist, butternut squash puree works great as a substitute!
Vanilla Ice Cream: I like the classic vanilla flavor, but you could swap it for pumpkin ice cream for an extra boost! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, almond or coconut milk ice cream does the trick.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can use non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk if needed. Keep in mind that this might alter the flavor slightly, but it will still taste fantastic!
Spices: The mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves gives warmth and depth. If you don’t have one of these, pumpkin pie spice is a perfect all-in-one alternative!
Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey enhances sweetness but is optional. You could use agave syrup or even a sugar substitute if you’re watching sugar intake.
How Do I Make the Milkshake Creamy and Smooth?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key for your pumpkin milkshake. Follow these steps for a smooth blend:
- Start with soft ice cream right out of the freezer, letting it sit for a few minutes. This makes blending easier.
- Blend the pumpkin puree and spices first. Then, gradually add the ice cream and milk. This helps everything combine evenly.
- Don’t rush! Blend on high for 30 seconds, then pause to scrape down the sides of the blender before blending again. This ensures no chunks remain.
- Always taste it before serving to tweak sweetness or spice. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk and blend again.
How to Make a Pumpkin Milkshake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice, for garnish
- Optional: crushed gingersnap cookies or graham crackers, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pumpkin milkshake takes about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll blend everything together in just a few minutes and serve it up right away. Perfect for a quick fall treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Ingredients:
Start by getting your blender ready! Add the canned pumpkin puree, vanilla ice cream, and milk to the blender. Then sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. If you like it sweeter, add the maple syrup or honey too. Blend everything on high until it’s super smooth and creamy, which usually takes about 30 seconds to a minute.
2. Adjust the Flavor:
After blending, take a quick taste! If you want it sweeter or spicier, feel free to add a bit more maple syrup or a pinch more cinnamon. Blend it again briefly to mix any adjustments.
3. Pour and Serve:
Now it’s time to serve! Pour your pumpkin milkshake into tall glasses, filling them up nicely. Don’t forget the fun part: top each glass with a big swirl of whipped cream. Yum!
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Garnish your whipped cream with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for that extra fall flavor. If you’d like a bit more crunch, add crushed gingersnap cookies or graham crackers on top or around the edge of the glass.
5. Enjoy!
Grab some festive straws and serve your pumpkin milkshake right away. It’s the perfect treat to sip on while enjoying the cozy fall vibes!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth. Just make sure it’s well-puréed to get a creamy shake.
How Can I Make This Milkshake Dairy-Free?
You can use non-dairy ice cream and plant-based milk like almond, coconut, or oat milk. This will still provide a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free!
Can I Make This Milkshake in Advance?
While it’s best fresh, you can blend the ingredients without ice cream, store it in the fridge, and add the ice cream right before serving to ensure the best texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Milkshake?
If you have leftovers, pour them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Just give it a good shake or stir before enjoying again as it may separate a bit.