Vanilla Bean Frappuccino (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base Components

01 - ¾ cup vanilla ice cream, around 3 scoops
02 - ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract, pure
03 - Crushed ice or small cubes, 1 cup total
04 - Granulated sugar or sweetener, 1 teaspoon
05 - Cold milk, 1½ cups (whole milk works great for creamy texture)

→ Extras

06 - Optional: Dust with regular sugar or vanilla bean powder
07 - Whipped cream to top it off

# Instructions:

01 - Double-check that your blender is clean and prepped. If it has a specific setting for making smoothies or crushing ice, you can use that. Otherwise, regular blending mode is fine.
02 - Put the milk, sugar, ice cream, vanilla extract, and ice into the blender jar. If you're working with uncrushed ice, pulse it first to break down the chunks before adding the rest. It'll blend smoother this way.
03 - Turn the blender on high for 30-60 seconds. Let it run until the mix is smooth and slushy without any ice bits floating around. If it's looking extra thick, pour in a touch more milk. Too thin? Toss in more ice and blend again.
04 - Pour your blended drink straight into two big glasses. This kind of drink separates quickly, so sip it right away for the best taste and texture.
05 - Add some whipped cream on top of each glass. Sprinkle with vanilla bean powder, cinnamon, or plain sugar if you’re feeling fancy.
06 - Serve it up with a straw and indulge in your icy homemade treat before it melts. Pair it with a cookie or pastry for extra fun!

# Notes:

01 - Making this at home only costs around $1-2 per serving, while similar drinks from Starbucks are $4-6.
02 - For a stronger vanilla taste, swap vanilla extract with a quarter teaspoon of vanilla bean paste or scrape the insides of half a pod.
03 - You can switch up the flavors by tossing in fresh fruits like blueberries or strawberries, adding a little chocolate syrup, or trying almond or coconut extract.