Chocolate Strawberry Shake

Something about a chocolate strawberry shake instantly transports me to an old-fashioned candy shop, the kind that feels as if you stepped back in time. There, tall frosty milkshakes come with whipped cream piled high, every sip tastes like pure nostalgia and life moves just a little slower—like a scene straight out of Our Town. You know exactly what I mean if you’ve ever been to any classic ice cream shop. That’s the energy behind this chocolate strawberry milkshake: rich, creamy and packed with real strawberry flavor, not to mention the swirling ribbons of chocolaty goodness. It’s an indulgence that needs no excuse.

Chocolate Strawberry Shake Ingredients

• Milk: We’re keeping things light-ish with fat-free milk, but if you’re all about that rich, creamy texture, go ahead and swap in whole milk.
  
• Strawberry ice cream: Reduced-fat ice cream gives the perfect berry flavor without being overly heavy. Looking to impress? Make a batch of strawberry ice cream at home.
• Frozen strawberries: Frozen strawberries help thicken the shake naturally while bringing an intense, real-fruit strawberry flavor. Plus, no hulling or slicing is required.
• Hot fudge ice cream topping: Because what’s a chocolate-covered strawberry shake without actual chocolate? The hot fudge adds a velvety richness, and drizzling it inside the glass makes it look extra fancy. Chocolate syrup can do the trick, but the thicker texture of hot fudge topping packs a more chocolaty punch.
• Whipped cream: A milkshake without whipped cream is just a smoothie in disguise. Grab the can and swirl away. It may say two tablespoons, but I never measure. Shake it to another level with homemade whipped cream.
• Maraschino cherry: The classic shake topper—it’s bright, sweet and picture-perfect. Looking for a little luxury? Try Luxardo cherries (save the rest for a perfect Manhattan).

Directions

Step 1: Blend your shake

In a blender, combine the milk, ice cream and strawberries; cover and process until smooth.

Editor’s Tip: Add the milk last, and a little at a time, so you can choose how thick you want your shake.

Step 2: Add the chocolate and serve

Drizzle the inside of a chilled glass with the fudge topping. Add the ice cream mixture. Garnish with whipped cream and a cherry. Serve immediately.

Editor’s Tip: Hot fudge topping is always best when slightly heated, and the microwave is perfect for a quick warmup. If serving your shake in a parfait or tall glass, pour the chocolate topping into the bottom of the glass, then gently turn it over and twist the glass so the chocolate coats the sides.

Chocolate Strawberry Shake Variations

• Make it a malt: Add a tablespoon of malted milk powder to the blender to create an old-school diner vibe. This will give the shake a slightly nutty soda-shop flavor.
• Choose more chocolate: Because sometimes more chocolate is the only answer. Replace the strawberry ice cream with chocolate ice cream, double the hot fudge and blend in a few chocolate chips. You get a chocolate-covered strawberry shake in a glass.
• Bring on the booze: (This one is for the grown-ups!) Add a splash of Baileys, Kahlua or chocolate liqueur for a decadent dessert cocktail.
• Skip the dairy: Just because you can’t have lactose doesn’t mean you can’t have a chocolate strawberry milkshake. For a dairy-free version, use milk alternatives and sorbet or dairy-free ice cream.

How to Store a Chocolate Strawberry Shake

Listen, milkshakes are a right-now kind of treat. They don’t wait, they don’t sit and they certainly don’t like being forgotten in the fridge. This recipe makes only one shake, so you probably won’t have leftovers anyway, but if you absolutely must save it, pop it in the freezer and blend it with a bit of milk when you’re ready to drink it.

Can you freeze a chocolate strawberry shake?

Technically, yes, but it’s never quite the same as when it’s freshly blended. You can freeze it in an airtight container for up to a day or two, but it’ll turn into a semi-solid milkshake brick. To revive it, let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes, then stir or blend in a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.

Chocolate Strawberry Shake Tips

What’s the best blender for milkshakes?

A good blender makes all the difference. You want something that crushes frozen fruit effortlessly and creates a smooth, creamy texture without over-aerating. High-speed blenders like Vitamix are top-tier, but a solid budget option like a Ninja can do the trick.

What’s the best way to thicken a shake?

Try a few simple tricks if you like your milkshakes thick enough to require a spoon, not a straw. First, use less milk, starting with half the amount and adding more as needed. Next, opt for full-fat ice cream, as the higher fat content creates a richer, thicker texture. Blending in extra frozen strawberries can also add body without watering it down, while a scoop of vanilla or strawberry yogurt helps thicken the shake and adds a slight tang.

Can you use fresh strawberries in a milkshake?

Frozen strawberries are preferred because they add thickness and a frostier texture, but if using fresh, throw in a few ice cubes or extra ice cream to keep the shake cold.

How should you serve a chocolate strawberry shake?

Serve this milkshake in a tall, chilled glass (warm parfait glasses are a crime!). Add a fun straw—bonus points for a striped or retro diner-style one. Finish it with extra whipped cream and one more drizzle of hot fudge, because you deserve it.