If you’ve ever pulled into the drive-thru at In-N-Out, you probably know the joy of sipping on one of their signature shakes alongside a Double-Double and Animal Style fries.
And while chocolate and strawberry are tempting, it’s the classic vanilla shake that truly delivers that nostalgic, diner-style flavor. Thick, cold, and perfectly sweet, it tastes like it was scooped straight from a vintage soda fountain.
This copycat In-N-Out Vanilla Shake recipe brings that rich, creamy flavor home with just a few ingredients.
No syrups, fillers, or overly complex steps — just real ice cream, real milk, and real vanilla blended to frosty perfection. Whether you’re pairing it with burgers or serving it as a weekend treat, this milkshake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s creamy, indulgent, and ridiculously easy. With just three core ingredients and a good blender, you can have a shake that rivals any fast food version.
You’ll love that this recipe uses simple, whole ingredients — no need for ice cream machines or artificial flavors. And unlike some milkshakes that melt into a puddle in minutes, this one holds its thickness — just like In-N-Out’s signature version.
What You’ll Need
- 3 large scoops premium vanilla ice cream (about 1½ cups)
- ½ cup whole milk (more for a thinner consistency)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, maraschino cherry, sprinkles
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality vanilla ice cream – This is the base of your shake, so go for a rich, full-fat variety for the best taste and texture.
- Start with less milk – You can always add more to thin it out, but starting small ensures a thicker shake.
- Chill your glass – A cold glass helps the shake stay thick and frosty longer.
- Don’t over-blend – Too much blending adds air and softens the shake. Blend just until smooth.
- Add-ins welcome – Crushed cookies, candy bits, or even malt powder can take this to diner-level indulgence.
Tools Required
- High-speed blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ice cream scoop
- Tall glass or soda fountain glass
- Spoon or straw
Substitutions and Variations
- Non-dairy version: Use coconut milk ice cream and almond or oat milk for a vegan-friendly shake.
- Low sugar: Choose a lower-sugar vanilla ice cream or use sugar-free options.
- Flavor twist: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Make it a float: Pour in a bit of club soda or vanilla soda for an old-school soda fountain vibe.
- Boozy shake: Add a splash of vanilla vodka or bourbon for an adult-friendly twist.
Make-Ahead Tips
While milkshakes are best made fresh, you can scoop and pre-measure your ice cream and milk into containers and freeze them together. Then, just dump into a blender and add vanilla extract when ready to blend. You can also keep your blender cup in the freezer to keep everything extra cold.
Instructions
1. Scoop the ice cream
Add 1½ cups (about 3 large scoops) of vanilla ice cream to the blender. The ice cream should be firm but not rock-solid.
2. Add milk and vanilla
Pour in ½ cup of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add a splash more milk if you prefer a thinner shake.
3. Blend
Blend on medium speed for about 20–30 seconds, or just until smooth. The shake should be thick enough to need a spoon but still pourable.
4. Serve immediately
Pour into a tall glass, top with whipped cream and a cherry if desired, and serve with a straw or long spoon.
Leftovers and Storage
Milkshakes don’t store well once blended, but if needed, you can freeze leftovers in a covered cup for up to 1 day. Let it thaw slightly and re-blend or stir before serving. For best results, enjoy immediately after blending.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use low-fat milk or ice cream?
Yes, but your shake will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk and full-fat ice cream are best for that classic thick texture.
2. Is In-N-Out’s shake made from real ice cream?
Yes! In-N-Out uses real ice cream in their shakes — no powdered mixes — which is why they’re so creamy. This copycat uses the same idea.
3. Can I add malt powder to make it a malt?
Definitely! Add 1 tablespoon of malt powder for an old-school twist.
4. What’s the best blender for milkshakes?
Any high-speed blender will work, but one with a “milkshake” or “ice cream” setting will make blending easier.
That Classic Diner Shake, Now in Your Kitchen
With just a few scoops of ice cream and a splash of milk, you’ve got yourself the ultimate treat — an In-N-Out Vanilla Shake that’s rich, creamy, and better than anything from a drive-thru.
Whether you’re making it as a dessert, a movie night drink, or just a weekend indulgence, this shake delivers everything you love about the original — made fresh at home.
Try it out, and let me know how thick you made it or what toppings you added. Leave a comment and share how you recreated that iconic flavor in your own kitchen.