Do Share Recipe

I just whipped up the most incredible adult dessert, and I had to share it with you immediately. This chocolate bourbon milkshake is the perfect blend of rich, creamy ice cream and the warm, smooth kick of good bourbon.

It’s a grown-up twist on a classic treat that feels both nostalgic and sophisticated. After a long week, this is exactly the kind of simple, decadent reward I was craving. It’s so easy to make, and the result is absolutely divine.

Ingredients

Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need to create this indulgent, boozy shake. Using high-quality components will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor and texture.

1 pint vanilla ice cream – This forms the creamy base. A good quality vanilla bean ice cream adds a layer of aromatic sweetness that complements the chocolate and bourbon.
1 pint chocolate ice cream – Go for a rich, dark chocolate flavor. This is the star of the show, so choose your favorite premium brand for the best results.
8 ounces whole milk – This helps everything blend together smoothly. For an even richer shake, you can substitute this with chocolate milk.
5 ounces bourbon – The type of bourbon you use will define the shake’s character. I recommend a smooth, well-rounded brand like Maker’s Mark, but feel free to use your personal favorite.
Toasted chopped walnuts – This optional garnish adds a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy shake.

Note: This recipe makes enough for two large servings or four smaller dessert-sized portions.

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your perfect milkshake.

Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free version, simply swap the regular ice cream for your favorite dairy-free chocolate and vanilla alternatives made from almond, coconut, or soy milk. Use a plant-based milk like oat or almond milk to blend.
Go Nuts: Instead of walnuts, try garnishing with toasted pecans, almonds, or even candied bacon bits for a sweet and savory kick.
Flavor Boosters: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor. A dash of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a surprising warmth.
Sauce It Up: For an extra layer of decadence, drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce inside the glass before pouring the milkshake.
Switch the Spirit: While bourbon is classic, this shake also works wonderfully with dark rum, brandy, or even an Irish cream liqueur for a different flavor profile.

If you’re in the mood for more indulgent desserts, you might also enjoy a red velvet cheesecake brownies recipe, which pairs beautifully with this milkshake for a decadent dessert spread.

Cooking Time

This dessert comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute treat.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes

Equipment You Need

You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make this milkshake. A few basic kitchen tools are all it takes.

Blender – This is essential for creating a smooth, perfectly combined milkshake.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurately measuring your liquid and dry ingredients.
Ice cream scoop – Makes it easy to get the ice cream out of the carton and into the blender.
Tall glasses – Chilled pint glasses or milkshake glasses are perfect for serving.

How to Make Chocolate Bourbon Milkshake Recipe

This recipe is incredibly straightforward. Just a few simple steps stand between you and a perfectly blended, boozy treat. The key is to blend until you reach your desired consistency.

H3: Combine Your Ingredients

Start by adding all your main ingredients to the blender. Place the vanilla ice cream, chocolate ice cream, whole milk, and bourbon directly into the blender jar. Holding back the walnuts or any other garnish for the end is key.

H3: Blend to Perfection

Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high for about one to two minutes. You are looking for a smooth, thick consistency where all the ingredients are fully incorporated. If the shake seems too thick, add another splash of milk and blend again until it reaches your preferred texture.

H3: Final Touches and Serving

Once blended, pour the milkshake into your prepared glasses. Top it with a generous sprinkle of toasted chopped walnuts for a crunchy finish. For an extra special touch, you can add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup before serving.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Having made this a few times now, I’ve picked up a couple of tricks that take it from great to absolutely unforgettable.

I always chill my glasses in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This keeps the milkshake colder for longer and prevents it from melting too quickly.
For a thicker, more spoonable shake (which is how I prefer it), use slightly less milk. You can always add more if needed, but you can’t take it out once it’s blended.
Don’t skip toasting the walnuts! It only takes a few minutes in a dry pan, but it releases their natural oils and deepens their flavor, adding a fantastic nutty aroma and crunch.
I found that letting the ice cream sit on the counter for about 5 minutes before scooping makes it easier to measure and helps it blend more smoothly without overworking the blender.

For a lighter, yet equally indulgent option, consider serving this alongside a creamy cookie dough dip recipe—a fun and shareable treat that’s always a hit at gatherings.

How to Serve Chocolate Bourbon Milkshake?

Presentation can make this simple dessert feel like a gourmet experience. Serve it immediately after blending for the best texture. Pour it into tall, chilled milkshake glasses and garnish with a generous handful of toasted nuts.

You can also add a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for a classic diner look, or drizzle the inside of the glass with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch.

Nutritional Information

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for this recipe. Please note that these values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use.

Calories: Approximately 650 kcal per serving
Protein: Approximately 12g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 60g
Fat: Approximately 35g

Make Ahead and Storage

While this milkshake is best enjoyed fresh, you do have options for preparing it ahead of time or storing leftovers.

This shake is best made and served immediately for the ideal frosty consistency. However, you can measure out your bourbon and have your garnishes ready to go to speed up the process when it’s time to serve.

If you have leftovers, you can store the milkshake in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. It will freeze solid, so you’ll need to let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or give it a quick re-blend before serving to restore its creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this easy and delicious recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels special without any of the stress.

Incredibly Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and a blender, you can whip up this impressive dessert in under 10 minutes. It’s the perfect recipe for satisfying a sudden craving.
Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate, creamy vanilla, and warm bourbon is simply divine. It’s a sophisticated treat that’s comforting and complex all at once.
Customizable to Your Taste: You can easily adjust the thickness, switch up the alcohol, or add different toppings. This recipe is a fantastic base for your own creative dessert experiments.
The Ultimate Adult Treat: It’s a fun, nostalgic milkshake with a grown-up twist. This makes it a perfect dessert for dinner parties, special occasions, or simply a relaxing night in.

Ben Carraoli