Want a Grimace Shake from McDonald’s but can’t get it anywhere? Don’t worry, you don’t have to lose out on this delicious and colorful delicacy; we’ve got the ideal imitation recipe for you! Originally introduced by McDonald’s in June 2023 as part of their Grimace Birthday Meal, this shake captured the hearts of many until it was tragically discontinued at the end of the month.
We’re reintroducing this popular drink with our tasty copycat recipe, so start your own celebration with an easy-to-make replica of McDonald’s once-exclusive beverage. This article will guide you to make your favorite drink step by step and offer additional tips to make it even more enjoyable.
Grimace Shake Recipe
1
servings5
minutes350
kcalIngredients
1 cup vanilla ice cream
0.5 cup whole milk (or plant-based alternative)
0.5 cup frozen blueberries
0.5 tablespoon mixed berry jam (optional)
2-3 drops purple food coloring (optional)
0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
1 teaspoon sprinkles, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a blender, add vanilla ice cream, milk, frozen blueberries, and mixed berry jam (if using).
- Blend until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- If a more vibrant purple color is desired, add 2-3 drops of purple food coloring and blend again.
- Pour the shake into a glass.
- Top with whipped cream and sprinkles for extra flair.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Grimace Shake!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a few drops of vanilla or almond extract to the mixture. You can also mix in some crushed freeze-dried berries for added texture and flavor.
Equipment Needed to Grimace Shake
You’ll need the following equipment to prepare your Grimace Shake:
- Blender: A good blender is essential for mixing the ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring Cups: These will help you measure the ingredients accurately.
- Ice Cream Scoop: This makes it easier to scoop the ice cream.
- Glassware: Choose a fun or fancy glass to elevate the presentation.
Customization Options
You can also customize your drink the way you like. Here are some options for you to make your own customized Grimace shake:
Vegan Grimace Shake: For a dairy-free version, simply substitute the vanilla ice cream and milk with plant-based alternatives. Almond milk and a coconut-based frozen dessert work wonderfully.
Alternative Berries: You can experiment with different berry combinations. Try using strawberries, blackberries, or raspberries for a unique flavor profile while maintaining the shake’s purple color.
Tropical Twist: Add a handful of frozen mango or pineapple chunks for a summery take on the Grimace Shake.
No Food Coloring: If you prefer a natural look, skip the food coloring. The blueberries will provide a subtle purple shade on their own, giving you a more natural version of the shake.
What is the Grimace Shake?
The Grimace Shake was a limited-time offering from McDonald’s, released in celebration of the character Grimace’s birthday. This shake stood out for its striking purple color and berry-infused flavor, making it a must-try for many. However, its availability was short-lived, only lasting for the month of June 2023.[1] Despite its brief appearance on the menu, the Grimace Shake left a lasting impression, with fans eager to recreate the experience at home. Its unique combination of nostalgia, taste, and visual appeal turned it into a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless enthusiasts to try their hand at making it themselves.
The Viral Trend: #GrimaceShake
The Grimace Shake didn’t just gain popularity because of its taste; it became a viral phenomenon on Social Media Platform. Netizens across the words shared videos of themselves enjoying (or pretending to endure) the shake, often with a humorous twist. Some staged their videos as mock crime scenes, where the Grimace Shake was splattered everywhere, adding a creative and comedic element to the trend. This viral content contributed to the shake’s legendary status and made it a must-try for those who love to keep up with the latest food trends.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.[2] When combined with plant-based milk alternatives, like almond or oat milk, you can enjoy a shake that’s not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.
Blueberries: Blueberries are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are rich in antioxidants, which help protect your body from oxidative stress. They’re also packed with vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fiber, making them a great addition to your diet.
Vegan Alternatives: Using plant-based milk and ice cream not only makes the shake vegan-friendly but also adds its own set of health benefits. Almond milk is low in calories and high in vitamin E, while coconut-based frozen desserts offer healthy fats and a creamy texture.
Dairy Ingredients: If you opt for traditional ingredients, you’ll still enjoy benefits such as calcium, protein, and vitamin D from milk and ice cream. Moderation is key to balancing indulgence and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The vibrant purple color comes from the frozen blueberries and, optionally, a few drops of purple food coloring. The combination of these ingredients gives the shake its iconic look.
While a blender is ideal, you can try mashing the ingredients together with a fork or spoon if a blender isn’t available. The texture may be different, but the flavor will still be enjoyable.
To reduce the calorie count, use low-fat or light vanilla ice cream and skim milk. You can also skip the whipped cream and sprinkles to cut down on sugar and fat.
It’s best to enjoy the Grimace Shake fresh. However, you can store it in the freezer for a short time. Just blend it again before serving to restore the creamy consistency.
If your shake is too thick, add a splash of milk and blend again. If it’s too thin, add more ice cream or frozen berries to thicken it up.
- Grimace Shake and McDonald’s Marketing Strategy – Forbes
https://www.forbes.com/sites/qai/2023/07/02/mcdonalds-grimace-birthday-meal-marketing-strategy/ [↩] - Health Benefits of Antioxidants in Blueberries – National Institutes of Health
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5679394/ [↩]
