Grimace Shake Recipe

The Grimace Shake recipe took the internet by storm, becoming a viral sensation thanks to its quirky purple color and nostalgic ties to McDonald’s beloved character, Grimace.

While the shake was only available for a limited time at McDonald’s, the good news is that you can easily recreate this fun and delicious drink at home! In this article, we’ll walk you through what makes the Grimace Shake so special and how to whip up your version in a few simple steps.

What Is a Grimace Shake?

The Grimace Shake was created as part of McDonald’s limited-time celebration of Grimace’s birthday, featuring the brand’s fuzzy purple mascot. Its striking purple hue and sweet, creamy flavor quickly made it a fan favorite.

While McDonald’s didn’t reveal the exact flavor profile, many fans described the Grimace Shake as a blend of berry and vanilla, making it both fruity and indulgent. Its viral success on social media made it a must-try drink, but even if it’s no longer available at McDonald’s, you can make your delicious version with simple ingredients.

Ingredients for a Homemade Grimace Shake

To recreate the Grimace Shake at home, you’ll need:

  • Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy base for the shake.
  • Milk: To help blend the ingredients to the perfect consistency.
  • Purple Food Coloring: For that signature Grimace look (or try natural alternatives like ube powder or beet juice).
  • Flavor Add-Ins: Berry extracts (like blueberry or raspberry) or ube flavoring to mimic the shake’s fruity notes.
  • Optional Toppings: Whipped cream, sprinkles, or edible glitter to add some extra flair.

Related: Can You Freeze Cream Cheese?

Grimace Shake Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Grimace Shake Recipe

Learn how to recreate the iconic Grimace Shake at home with this easy, step-by-step recipe. Perfectly creamy, fruity, and vibrant, it’s a fun treat for any occasion.

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and measure them for the number of servings you’d like to make. A basic recipe for one serving includes:

  • 2 cups of vanilla ice cream.
  • 1/2 cup of milk.
  • 1–2 drops of purple food coloring.
  • 1–2 teaspoons of berry extract or ube flavoring.

2. Blend the Shake

Add the ice cream, milk, food coloring, and flavoring into a blender. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the food coloring to achieve the perfect purple hue.

3. Adjust the Consistency

If the shake is too thick, add a splash of milk and blend again. If it’s too thin, add a scoop of ice cream. This ensures you get the ideal milkshake texture.

4. Serve and Garnish

Pour the shake into a tall glass and top it with whipped cream. Add colorful sprinkles or a dusting of edible glitter for an Instagram-worthy finish. Serve immediately with a fun straw or spoon.

Related Read: Subway Breakfast Menu

Customizing Your Grimace Shake

One of the best things about making your own Grimace Shake is the ability to customize it to your liking.

  • Healthier Options: Swap regular ice cream for dairy-free alternatives like almond milk ice cream or coconut cream. Use low-fat milk or non-dairy options like oat milk for a lighter shake.
  • Flavor Variations: Experiment with different berry flavors, such as blackberry or strawberry, or even try adding a hint of lavender for a unique twist.
  • Fun Additions: Amp up the shake’s presentation by adding edible glitter, candy pieces, or themed paper straws to fit the occasion.

Why Make Your Grimace Shake?

While the original Grimace Shake was a limited-time treat, making it at home allows you to enjoy it anytime you like. Plus, there are several benefits to crafting your version:

  • Customizable Flavor and Texture: Adjust the sweetness, thickness, or flavor to match your preferences.
  • Use of Natural Ingredients: Incorporate real berries or natural food coloring for a healthier option.
  • Fun and Creative Activity: Perfect for parties, family fun, or just a creative treat to share on social media.

Read More: Chick-fil-A Breakfast Menu

Grimace Shake Recipe Without Ice Cream

If you’re looking to make a Grimace Shake without ice cream, don’t worry—you can still achieve a creamy and delicious result! Substitute the ice cream with a combination of frozen bananas or frozen coconut milk cubes for a rich, dairy-free alternative. 

Blend these with milk (or a non-dairy substitute), purple food coloring, and berry flavoring such as blueberry or raspberry extract. This version not only cuts down on calories but also adds a natural sweetness, making it a refreshing and lighter take on the classic Grimace Shake.

What Does the Grimace Shake Have in It?

The original Grimace Shake from McDonald’s was rumored to feature a sweet blend of vanilla soft-serve and berry flavors, giving it a fruity, creamy profile. The signature purple color comes from food coloring, and the shake is topped with whipped cream to complete its playful look. 

While McDonald’s hasn’t disclosed the exact ingredients, recreating it at home typically involves vanilla ice cream, milk, food coloring, and berry extracts for an authentic taste.

How to Make the Grimace Shake in the UK?

Making the Grimace Shake in the UK is simple, even without McDonald’s exact recipe. Start with locally available vanilla ice cream and whole milk or a plant-based alternative. Add a few drops of purple food coloring (look for ube flavoring or berry extracts in specialty stores if you want an authentic twist). 

Blend everything together until smooth and creamy. To enhance its visual appeal, garnish with whipped cream and sprinkles. If you’re feeling adventurous, add fresh berries for a natural flavor boost.

Read Also: Whataburger Breakfast Menu

Is a Grimace Shake Healthy?

While the Grimace Shake is undeniably delicious, it’s more of an indulgent treat than a health-conscious choice. The original shake is high in sugar and calories due to its vanilla ice cream base and sweet flavoring. 

However, you can make a healthier version at home by using low-sugar ingredients, non-dairy alternatives, or fresh fruits for natural sweetness. Whether you opt for the classic recipe or a lighter variation, enjoying the Grimace Shake in moderation can still fit into a balanced diet.

Conclusion

The Grimace Shake may have started as a playful promotion by McDonald’s, but it’s now a beloved drink you can easily recreate in your kitchen. You can make this fun and flavorful shake anytime the craving strikes with just a few simple ingredients and some creativity. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your unique twist, the Grimace Shake will surely be a hit. So grab your blender, whip up this purple delight, and let your imagination run wild Grimace would surely approve!