I decided to try making an In-N-Out Neapolitan shake at home, and it turned out just as fun and delicious as the one you’d order off their secret menu.
The mix of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry is so simple, but together they make the creamiest, most nostalgic shake. I love how each sip gives you a little bit of all three flavors—it’s sweet, rich, and refreshing all at once.
For me, it feels like the perfect treat to pair with a burger and fries, and the best part is I don’t have to wait in line to enjoy it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The In-N-Out Neapolitan shake is the best of all worlds — chocolatey, fruity, and creamy vanilla all blended together. It’s quick to make, requires only a handful of ingredients, and feels extra fun for kids and adults alike.
Unlike store-bought shakes, you can customize how much of each flavor you want. Want it heavier on the chocolate? Add more syrup. Prefer extra fruitiness? Use fresh strawberries. It’s a flexible recipe that always delivers creamy, satisfying results.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream (about 4 scoops)
- ½ cup whole milk (adjust for thickness)
- 3 tablespoons chocolate syrup
- ½ cup fresh strawberries (or 3 tablespoons strawberry syrup)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping
- Maraschino cherries (optional for garnish)
Pro Tips
- Use whole milk and real ice cream for the creamiest texture.
- If using fresh strawberries, blend them first into a puree before adding ice cream.
- Start with less milk — you can always add more to adjust thickness.
- For layered presentation, blend each flavor separately and pour carefully into the glass.
- Chill glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving for that frosty diner look.
Tools Required
- Blender
- Ice cream scoop
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall serving glasses
- Straws and spoons
Substitutions & Variations
- Use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available.
- Swap in chocolate ice cream instead of syrup for a richer flavor.
- Try almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free shake.
- Add malt powder to make it taste like an old-school soda fountain drink.
- Turn it into a dessert float by topping with cream soda or sparkling water.
Make-Ahead Tips
Milkshakes are best fresh, but you can prep strawberry puree ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
You can also pre-scoop ice cream into cups and freeze them, making blending faster when it’s time to serve.
If you do freeze a blended shake, re-blend with a splash of milk before serving to restore creaminess.
Instructions
1. Blend strawberry layer
In the blender, combine 1 scoop ice cream, strawberries (or strawberry syrup), and a splash of milk. Blend until smooth. Pour into a tall glass, filling the bottom third.
2. Blend vanilla layer
Rinse blender. Combine 2 scoops ice cream, vanilla extract, and a little milk. Blend until creamy. Carefully pour over the strawberry layer.
3. Blend chocolate layer
Rinse blender again. Blend remaining ice cream with chocolate syrup and a splash of milk until smooth. Pour over the vanilla layer.
4. Finish and garnish
Top shake with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. Add a striped straw for serving.
5. Serve immediately
Enjoy your shake while it’s thick and frosty.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this shake with homemade In-N-Out style burgers and fries for the full restaurant experience.
For a party, make mini Neapolitan shakes in small cups and top with whipped cream for a fun treat. You can also freeze leftovers in popsicle molds for a grab-and-go summer snack.
Leftovers & Storage
Milkshakes don’t last long, but if you have leftovers, freeze them in an airtight container.
To serve again, re-blend with a splash of milk. Alternatively, pour extra shake into popsicle molds and freeze for creamy frozen treats that kids will love.
Nutrition & Benefits
This shake is definitely a sweet indulgence, but it also has some redeeming qualities.
Whole milk and ice cream provide calcium and protein, while strawberries add vitamin C and natural sweetness.
Making it at home means you can control portion size and sweetness, so it’s a fun treat that fits into a balanced lifestyle.
Recipe FAQ
1. What flavors are in the Neapolitan shake?
Vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry blended together.
2. How do I make it look layered like the picture?
Blend each flavor separately and pour slowly into the glass.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based ice cream and milk.
4. Can I use fresh fruit for the strawberry flavor?
Absolutely, just puree them first before blending with ice cream.
5. How do I make it thicker?
Use less milk and more ice cream, or freeze the shake for 10 minutes before serving.
A Fun Twist on a Classic
This In-N-Out Neapolitan shake is a playful twist on the classic milkshake. With its mix of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, it feels nostalgic and exciting all at once. It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to make both kids and adults smile.
So the next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the drive-thru and make this shake at home.
I’d love to hear how yours turned out — did you go for the layered look, or blend everything together for a swirl? Either way, you’ll have a milkshake that rivals the real secret menu treat.
