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Every gulp of a fresh peach shake brings summer vibes, mixing juicy sweet peaches with smooth vanilla ice cream for a cool drink that's rich yet fruity. This easy combo turns basic stuff into a drink that's just as good as what you'd pay big bucks for at fancy smoothie places.
I whip these up for my kids every week when peaches are in season. I've learned that if you freeze peaches when they're just right, you can make this summery drink anytime you want. Using frozen fruit keeps it thick without making it watery like ice cubes would.
Key Components
- Peaches: Go for ones that smell amazing and feel soft. If you can't find fresh ones, the frozen kind from the store works great too.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Fancy brands with actual vanilla specks give you the best taste and smoothest feel.
- Milk: Full-fat makes it just right, but any type works fine. Remember that less fat means a different texture.
- Vanilla Extract: The real stuff makes both the peach and cream taste better and adds something special.
How To Make It
- Step 1: Get Your Peaches Ready
- Fresh peaches should give a bit when you touch them but not be mushy. Take the skin off and cut them up before you freeze them. Put the pieces on a tray with parchment paper and freeze them solid so they don't stick together.
- Step 2: First Mixing Round
- Mix just the peaches, milk, and vanilla first. This way the peaches break down completely without messing up the ice cream. You want it smooth but still pretty thick.
- Step 3: Add The Ice Cream
- Put in small scoops of ice cream, pushing the blend button quickly between each. This way it all mixes evenly without getting too thin. When you see a little whirlpool in the middle, you know it's just right.
- Step 4: Check How Thick It Is
- Your shake should pile up a little when you pour it but still go through a straw. If it's too thick, add a bit more milk, just a spoonful at a time until it's how you like it.
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I love throwing in a tiny bit of almond extract sometimes - it makes the peach taste pop in a way you wouldn't believe.
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I've tweaked this shake for years now, and I've found the trick is letting those peaches do the talking while backing them up with good stuff. This drink has become our go-to way to hang onto summer flavors all year. Whether we're sitting by the pool or curled up inside, it always takes us back to juicy peaches and lazy summer days.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh peaches instead of frozen?
- Sure, but you'll need to cut back on milk to about ¼-½ cup since fresh peaches won't make the shake as thick.
- → What makes the best vanilla ice cream for this recipe?
- Go for ice cream without carrageenan and just a few simple ingredients. Haagen Dazs does the job really well.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
- Try Cosmic Bliss vanilla ice cream with some coconut or oat milk for the tastiest dairy-free option.
- → Why use alcohol-free vanilla extract?
- It gives you a nicer taste in cold drinks like shakes and smoothies.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- Shakes taste way better right after you blend them. The texture and flavor just aren't the same if you wait.