I’ve always loved ordering the strawberry shake at In-N-Out, so I decided to try making it in my own kitchen. It came out thick, creamy, and packed with that sweet strawberry flavor that makes it so refreshing.
What I like most is how simple it is—just a handful of ingredients blended together, yet it tastes like a classic diner treat.
Now whenever I’m craving that shake to go with a burger or just as a quick dessert, I can whip one up at home and enjoy it without the drive-thru wait.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This strawberry shake copycat is creamy, fruity, and incredibly easy to make. It takes only a handful of ingredients and about 5 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or after-school treats.
You’ll love that it can be made with fresh strawberries, frozen berries, or strawberry syrup — whatever you have on hand. It’s kid-friendly, fun to customize with toppings, and just as thick and satisfying as the real thing.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups strawberry ice cream (about 4 scoops)
- ¾ cup whole milk (adjust for thickness)
- ½ cup fresh or frozen strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping
- Optional: strawberry syrup for extra sweetness
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Pro Tips
- For the strongest strawberry flavor, use real fresh or frozen berries.
- Add strawberries first to the blender so they puree smoothly.
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture.
- Adjust sweetness by adding strawberry syrup if desired.
- Chill your serving glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes for a frosty finish.
Tools Required
- Blender
- Ice cream scoop
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall serving glasses
- Straws and spoons
Substitutions & Variations
- Use vanilla ice cream with strawberry syrup if strawberry ice cream isn’t available.
- Swap milk with almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
- Add a frozen banana for a creamier texture and extra fruit flavor.
- Mix in malt powder for a retro soda fountain-style shake.
- Top with strawberry slices or crushed cookies for garnish.
Make-Ahead Tips
Milkshakes are best fresh, but you can prep the strawberry puree ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 2 days. You can also pre-scoop ice cream into cups and keep them in the freezer to make blending faster when you’re ready to serve. Leftover shakes can be frozen in popsicle molds for a fun frozen snack.
Instructions
1. Blend strawberries
In the blender, puree fresh or frozen strawberries with a splash of milk until smooth.
2. Add ice cream and milk
Add strawberry ice cream, vanilla extract, and remaining milk. Blend until creamy and thick.
3. Adjust
Taste the shake. Add more syrup for sweetness or more ice cream for thickness. Blend again if needed.
4. Serve
Pour the shake into tall chilled glasses. Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of strawberry syrup, and a maraschino cherry.
5. Enjoy immediately
Serve with straws and spoons.
Serving Suggestions
This shake is a great partner for burgers and fries for the full In-N-Out experience.
Serve it at birthday parties in small cups with colorful straws, or make a milkshake bar where kids can add sprinkles and toppings. You can also freeze it slightly to make strawberry ice cream floats with cream soda.
Leftovers & Storage
Milkshakes don’t keep long, but leftover shake can be frozen in popsicle molds or airtight containers.
To serve again as a shake, let thaw slightly and re-blend with a splash of milk until creamy.
Nutrition & Benefits
This shake is a sweet indulgence, but it does offer some benefits too. Strawberries provide vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while milk and ice cream give calcium and protein.
Making it at home lets you adjust portion size and sweetness, making it a treat you can feel good about sharing with your family once in a while.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I make this with only strawberry syrup?
Yes, just blend vanilla ice cream with milk and strawberry syrup until smooth.
2. Can I make it thicker?
Use less milk or add more ice cream for a thicker shake.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, just thaw slightly before blending to avoid icy chunks.
4. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely — the flavor is mild and fruity, perfect for children.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute non-dairy ice cream and plant-based milk.
A Sweet Treat to Share
This In-N-Out strawberry shake copycat is creamy, fruity, and just plain fun. It’s easy to whip up, tastes just like the fast-food classic, and can be customized with fresh fruit, syrup, or creative toppings.
It’s a family favorite that works as an after-dinner dessert, a party treat, or even a nostalgic indulgence for adults.
So grab your blender and some strawberries, and treat yourself to this homemade shake.
I’d love to hear how yours turned out — did you use real strawberries, syrup, or a mix of both? Share your version and enjoy every sip.
