Pistachio Milkshake

The Pistachio Milkshake is a decadent and flavorful beverage perfect for satisfying a sweet craving. It combines the distinct, subtly sweet and earthy flavor of pistachios with the rich, creamy texture of a classic milkshake. Made from pistachio ice cream and milk, it's blended to a smooth, thick consistency. This delightful shake is often enjoyed as a dessert or a special treat on a warm day.
Pistachio Milkshake

Preparation

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

This is a classic, non-alcoholic milkshake, placing it firmly in the "Dessert Drink" category. It's a sweet, blended beverage enjoyed as a treat rather than a cocktail.

Serving

Serve this non-alcoholic, cold milkshake in a tall, chilled milkshake glass to keep it thick and frosty for longer. It's a single-serving drink, perfect for one person.
Serving size
Approximately 350-400 ml / 12-14 oz
Alcohol content
0% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Milkshake Glass
Glass treatment
Chilled

Backstory

While the milkshake itself is an American invention from the late 19th century, the Pistachio Milkshake doesn't have a specific origin story. Its creation is a natural evolution of dessert culture, combining the popular American shake with the beloved flavor of pistachio, which has ancient roots in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. It rose in popularity alongside the widespread availability of pistachio ice cream.
Origin
The milkshake concept originated in the United States in the late 1800s. The specific pistachio-flavored variant likely emerged in the mid-20th century as ice cream parlors and soda fountains began experimenting with a wider variety of flavors.

Pistachio Milkshake

The drink is most commonly known as Pistachio Milkshake, a straightforward name describing its core flavor and type. Alternative names like "Pistachio Nut Milkshake" or "Creamy Pistachio Shake" are descriptive variations but are less frequently used.
Original name
Pistachio Milkshake
Alternative names
  • Pistachio Nut Milkshake
  • Creamy Pistachio Shake

Characteristics overview

This milkshake boasts a distinct nutty and sweet pistachio flavor with a rich, creamy texture and a pale green hue. It has a pleasant, sweet aroma and provides a refreshing sensation, making it a perfect treat year-round, especially in summer.
Flavor
Nutty, Sweet, Creamy, Pistachio, Vanilla
Aroma
Sweet, Nutty, Milky, Vanilla
Taste balance
Sweet
Aftertaste
Creamy, Lingering nutty flavor, Sweet
Fizziness
None
Color appearance
Pale Green, Opaque, Thick
Texture
Thick, Smooth, Creamy
Seasonality
Refreshing, All-Season, Summery

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor profile is dominated by high sweetness and exceptional creaminess, with a subtle bitterness from the nuts. It is completely alcohol-free and has no carbonation, saltiness, or sourness.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

The core ingredients for this simple shake are high-quality pistachio ice cream and whole milk. A dash of almond extract is an optional but recommended addition to amplify the nutty notes.
  • Pistachio Ice Cream3 large scoops (approx. 1.5 cups)
    The quality of the ice cream will define the flavor of the milkshake. Contains dairy and may contain eggs or soy.
  • Whole Milk120 ml / 4 oz
    Adjust quantity for desired thickness. Plant-based milk can be substituted for a dairy-free version.
  • Almond Extract1/4 teaspoon(optional)
    A small amount enhances the overall nutty flavor profile of the pistachio.

Ice type

  • None

Mixing equipments

The only essential piece of equipment needed is a blender to effectively combine the ice cream and milk into a smooth, thick shake.
  • Blender: for combining and blending the ingredients until smooth.

Instructions

This milkshake is incredibly easy to make: simply combine pistachio ice cream, milk, and a little almond extract in a blender. Blend until smooth, pour into a chilled glass, and finish with your favorite toppings.
1. Prepare the glass by placing it in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to chill.
2. In the jar of a blender, combine the pistachio ice cream, whole milk, and optional almond extract.
3. Blend on high speed for about 30-60 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and has reached your desired consistency.
4. Pour the milkshake into the chilled glass.
5. Garnish with a swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, and a maraschino cherry. Serve immediately with a straw and a long spoon.

Garnishing

Garnish lavishly with a swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for crunch, and a classic maraschino cherry on top.
  • Whipped Cream: a generous swirl on top.
  • Chopped Pistachios: sprinkled over the whipped cream for texture and flavor.
  • Maraschino Cherry: placed on top of the whipped cream as a classic garnish.

Dietary Information

This milkshake contains nuts (pistachio) and dairy. It is vegetarian and typically gluten-free and caffeine-free, but check ice cream labels as some brands may contain egg or soy products.
✕ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✕ Dairy-free
✕ Egg-free
✕ Soy-free
✕ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✕ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This is a high-calorie dessert drink, rich in carbohydrates and sugars primarily from the ice cream. The exact nutritional values can vary significantly based on the brand of ice cream used.
Calories
Approximately 450-600 kcal / 1880-2510 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approximately 50-70 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approximately 45-65 g
Sugar level

Occasions

This milkshake is perfect as a standalone dessert after a meal or as a refreshing treat on a hot summer day. It's also a family-friendly option suitable for celebrations and casual get-togethers.
  • Dessert
  • Summer Treat
  • Afternoon Snack
  • Family Gathering

Pairing suggestions

This rich milkshake pairs beautifully with simple, crunchy baked goods like shortbread or biscotti that complement its creamy texture. For a sweet and salty contrast, try it with a side of pretzels. It can also be served alongside a simple cake or pastry.
  • Shortbread cookies
  • Biscotti
  • A slice of plain pound cake
  • Salty pretzels

The Perfect Pistachio Milkshake: A Creamy & Nutty Delight

The Pistachio Milkshake is a simple yet elegant dessert drink that celebrates the unique flavor of pistachio nuts. It's incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and a blender. The result is a thick, creamy, and satisfying shake with a beautiful pale green color, perfect for all ages. While high in calories and sugar, it serves as a wonderful indulgent treat for special occasions or a hot summer day.

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