
When you want to dig into something super cozy and loaded with happy memories, nothing tops a big, extra-thick chocolate milkshake. It’s crazy easy to throw together, super creamy, and has that dreamy chocolate flavor you need. I’ve been making this old-school favorite for ages because it was always my go-to as a kid. These days, I love whipping one up for movie marathons with the family.
Whenever I’m after a real treat in a hurry, this is the shake I always blend up. One summer, my friends and I made a whole setup for milkshakes in my kitchen, and honestly, nothing beats this chocolate one. It’s everyone’s favorite to this day.
Decadent Ingredients
- Whipped cream: A generous scoop makes every sip extra special. Go for fresh if you can—it’s the best.
- Chocolate ice cream: Pick a brand you like—you want that bold chocolate taste and rich, creamy feel.
- Sprinkles: Want fun and color? Pile on some bright sprinkles or go classic with chocolate ones.
- Maraschino cherry: Popping one on top feels just right—use cherries packed with juice for a little zing.
- Chocolate milk: Full-fat is awesome for a shake that’s super thick and smooth all the way through.
Simple How-To Steps
- Finishing Touches:
- Pour your smooth blended shake into the icy cold glass. Heap on whipped cream, toss a ton of sprinkles, and finish with a cherry. Stick in a straw, and dig in right away.
- Chilling the Glass:
- While the blender’s whirring, slide your glass into the freezer. Giving it a quick chill keeps your shake frosty till the last drop.
- Blending the Milkshake:
- Now, add about a third of a cup of chocolate milk to those scoops. Full fat gives you the best shake ever. Blend it all up till it’s totally smooth—scrape the sides down if you need to. A minute tops and it’s ready.
- Preparing the Base:
- Let the chocolate ice cream hang out on the counter for a bit so it softens. Scoop two cups into the blender—softening makes it mix up much smoother and thick.

Chocolate ice cream? Always my favorite part. It’s that sweet, rich base that ties the whole thing together. My family could make this in their sleep, and it somehow tastes even better when we all grab shakes and sit outside together.
Keep It Fresh
This shake really hits best right after you make it. If you want to save some, pour whatever’s left into a cup that can go in the freezer with a tight lid. Try to drink it in a day so it stays creamy—otherwise, it’ll go icy and won’t blend up quite the same.
Swap Options
No chocolate milk around? Use regular milk, add a spoon or two of cocoa powder plus some sugar, and you’re set. Heavy cream in place of a little milk will make it ultra-rich. You can also switch up the ice cream flavor—vanilla’s a great pick for that old-school black-and-white shake vibe.
How to Serve
Pour your drink into a frosty glass for that diner throwback. Add mini chocolate chips or crushed cookies if you want crunch. Grown-ups—stir in a splash of espresso or liqueur for something a little extra after dinner.

Fun Milkshake Backstory
Back in the early 1900s, milkshakes started popping up in American diners and soda shops. Chocolate was one of the first (and still best) flavors out there—no wonder people of all ages keep coming back for it.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make my milkshake thicker?
Let your chocolate ice cream sit on the counter for a few so it softens, then use less milk while blending. That way, you end up with a super thick milkshake every time.
- → What about dairy-free options?
Totally! Swap the chocolate ice cream and chocolate milk for any plant-based choices you love—they’ll work just as well for a tasty shake.
- → What are some tasty toppings for this shake?
Classic picks are whipped cream, sprinkles, and a cherry. If you’re feeling extra, toss on some chocolate curls or pour on extra chocolate syrup.
- → How do I keep my shake from thinning out?
Use way more ice cream than milk and just blend for a short time. You can also chill your glass so it stays nice and cold.
- → Can I mix in other flavors?
Oh definitely! Stir in a little peanut butter or a quick splash of vanilla for a cool twist.