Thick & Creamy Chocolate Shake Recipe (No Ice Cream Needed)

If you’re craving a rich, chocolatey milkshake that feels like dessert in a glass, this easy chocolate shake recipe is perfect. It’s creamy, indulgent, and ready in just 5 minutes. Whether you’re whipping it up as a treat or pairing it with burgers and fries, this homemade shake always hits the spot.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for one large shake or two small ones:

2 cups cold milk (full-fat or toned for best texture)
3 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but adds depth)
1 to 1.5 cups ice cubes
Whipped cream or chocolate shavings (optional for topping)

Optional Add-ins (For Variation)

1 ripe banana for a chocolate banana shake
A scoop of peanut butter for extra richness
A pinch of instant coffee to deepen the chocolate flavor
Crushed cookies or chocolate chips for texture

Instructions

Step 1: Blend the base
In a blender, combine the milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend for 20-30 seconds until the cocoa and sugar dissolve completely.

Step 2: Add ice
Now toss in the ice cubes. Blend until the shake turns thick and smooth. If you like a thinner shake, add a splash more milk. For a thicker one, add a few more ice cubes or crushed frozen milk cubes.

Step 3: Taste and adjust
Give it a quick taste. Add more sugar or cocoa if needed, then give it a final blend.

Step 4: Serve it up
Pour into a tall chilled glass. Top with whipped cream, grated chocolate, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup if you’re going all out.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Shake

Chill your milk and glass beforehand for an extra frosty drink.
If you want it ultra-creamy, replace 1/4 cup of milk with fresh cream.
For a thicker consistency without ice cream, freeze milk into cubes and blend those instead of plain ice.