Homemade Arby’s Mint Shake Recipe

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There’s something so irresistibly special about the perfect blend of cool mint, rich chocolate, and creamy vanilla that makes this Arby’s Mint Shake one of the ultimate indulgences.

How to make Arby’s Mint Shake

Arby’s Mint Shake (more specifically called the Mint Chocolate Shake or Andes Mint Chocolate Shake) is a seasonal milkshake offered by the American fast-food chain Arby’s, usually around St. Patrick’s Day or during the winter/spring season.

Ingredients:

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your version of Arby’s Mint Shake:

• Vanilla Ice Cream – 2 cups (rich, full-fat ice cream works best)
• Milk – ½ cup (adjust for desired consistency; whole milk or 2% recommended)
• Mint Extract – ½ teaspoon (use sparingly, as it’s strong)
• Green Food Coloring – 1 to 2 drops (optional, for that signature minty green look)
• Chocolate Syrup – 2 tablespoons (for flavor and drizzle garnish)
• Whipped Cream – For topping
• Crushed Andes Mint Candies – 2 tablespoons or as desired (for authentic flavor and texture)

Instructions:

1. Blend the Base: Start by combining vanilla ice cream, milk, and mint extract in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Add 1–2 drops of green food coloring if you want to replicate Arby’s signature pale green hue. Blend briefly again to evenly incorporate the color.
3. Add Chocolate Flavor: Add chocolate syrup directly to the blender and pulse for a few seconds. This creates a rich blend of mint and chocolate flavors, mimicking the original shake.
4. Adjust Consistency: If the shake is too thick, add a splash of milk and blend again. If it’s too thin, add an extra scoop of ice cream and blend until you reach your preferred texture.
5. Serve and Garnish: Pour the shake into a tall glass.
6. Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream and drizzle with chocolate syrup for added visual flair.
7. Sprinkle crushed Andes Mint candies over the whipped cream for the signature mint-chocolate crunch.
8. Enjoy Your Masterpiece: Sip, savor, and let the combination of creamy mint and chocolate transport you to dessert heaven!

Tips for the Perfect Mint Shake:

• Go Bold on Chocolate: If you’re a chocolate lover, drizzle extra chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring in the shake for a gourmet touch.
• Mint Candy Alternatives: If you don’t have Andes Mint candies, try using crushed peppermint candies or mini chocolate chips for a similar effect.
• Experiment with Extracts: Need a stronger mint kick? Increase the mint extract slightly (but be careful—it’s concentrated!) or add a drop of peppermint extract for extra freshness.
• Serving Tip: Chill your glass in the freezer before serving to keep your shake icy cold for longer.

What to serve with

Arby’s Mint Shake is already a treat on its own, but pairing it with complementary dishes or snacks can enhance your dessert experience and make it part of a truly indulgent meal.

1. Mint-Chocolate Treats

Lean into the mint theme by pairing the Arby’s Mint Shake with another mint-flavored dessert. Here are a few ideas:

• Thin Mint Cookies – Perfectly crisp, chocolaty, and minty. Girl Scout Thin Mint cookies are a classic pairing.
• Mint Brownies – Rich, fudgy brownies topped with a layer of mint frosting or ganache pair beautifully with the shake.
• Chocolate Mint Bark – A quick and easy candy featuring layers of melted white chocolate and crushed mint candies.

2. Salty Snacks for Balance

The richness of the mint shake can be balanced with something salty or savory. Here are a few easy options:

• French Fries: Classic salty fries are a great companion to creamy milkshakes. Dip them for a fun flavor contrast!
• Pretzels: The crunchiness and saltiness of pretzels make them an ideal snacking partner for a sweet shake.
• Popcorn: Try buttered or caramel popcorn for a light bite that complements the mint shake without overpowering it.

3. Burgers or Sandwiches (Arby’s-Inspired)

If you’re going for a full “Arby’s-inspired at-home meal,” serve the Mint Shake alongside hearty comfort foods.

• Roast Beef Sandwich: A simple roast beef sandwich, either homemade or store-bought, replicates the essence of Arby’s classic menu items.
• Cheeseburger Sliders – Mini cheeseburgers pair well with the shake, blending savory with sweet.
• Loaded Curly Fries – A dish of curly fries topped with cheese, sauces, and your favorite toppings can complete the fast-food experience.

4. Chocolate Desserts

If you’re a chocoholic, pair the mint shake with more chocolate-forward desserts for an indulgence overload:

• Chocolate Cake – A slice of moist chocolate cake works beautifully with the minty shake.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies – Classic cookies alongside a mint shake create a comforting, nostalgic treat.
• Hot Fudge Sundae: If you really want to go overboard, serve the shake with a sundae packed with whipped cream and chocolate fudge.

Ingredients Substitutes

Making Arby’s Mint Shake at home is easy and can be customized to fit your needs. Below, you’ll find detailed information on substitutions for every ingredient in the recipe so that you can whip up a delicious mint shake, no matter the situation.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

Vanilla ice cream is the foundational ingredient that adds creaminess and sweetness. If you’re out of vanilla ice cream or need a substitute, your options include:

• Frozen Yogurt: Use plain or vanilla-flavored frozen yogurt for a slightly tangy twist. It’s also lower in fat compared to ice cream.
• Coconut Milk Ice Cream: For dairy-free or vegan options, coconut milk-based ice cream provides a creamy texture similar to regular ice cream. Brands like So Delicious have great alternatives.
• Banana “Nice Cream”: Blend frozen bananas until creamy to create a plant-based “ice cream.” Add a splash of vanilla extract for flavor.
• Make Your Own Vanilla Ice Cream: If you’re adventurous, mix heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Freeze until solid and use it in the recipe.

2. Milk

Milk is used to thin out the shake and adjust the consistency. Here are some substitutions:

• Non-Dairy Milk: Almond milk, oat milk, cashew milk, or soy milk are great swaps, and each adds a unique flavor to your shake. Choose the unsweetened variety to avoid unwanted, overly sweet results.
• Cream or Half-and-Half: For a thicker, richer texture, you can use cream or half-and-half instead of milk.
• Water with Powdered Milk Substitute: If you don’t have fresh milk, mix powdered milk with water for a quick solution.

3. Mint Extract

Mint extract is the star of the recipe, but in case you don’t have it handy, here are some alternatives:

• Peppermint Extract: If mint extract isn’t available, peppermint extract will work just as well, though it has a slightly sharper flavor. Use the same amount, or adjust to taste.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: Blend fresh mint leaves with milk before making the shake to extract natural mint flavor. Strain the liquid and use it in place of the extract. It offers a subtle, herbal flavor.
• Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: Replace vanilla ice cream with mint chocolate chip ice cream to add both minty flavor and chocolate chips in one ingredient.

4. Green Food Coloring

The food coloring gives the shake its signature light green color. If you don’t want to use artificial coloring, these substitutes will work:

• Matcha Powder: Green tea matcha powder can serve as a natural green coloring. It has a slightly earthy flavor but works well with mint.
• Spinach or Kale: Blend fresh spinach or kale with milk to create a green color. Don’t worry—you won’t notice the taste as the mint flavor will overpower it.
• Skip the Coloring: If the green color isn’t important to you, the shake will still taste fantastic without food coloring!

5. Chocolate Syrup

Chocolate syrup enhances the mint-chocolate combination. Here are some replacements:

• Cocoa Powder: Mix cocoa powder with sugar and a little water or milk to make a homemade chocolate syrup substitute.
• Melted Chocolate Chips: Melt semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a thicker, richer chocolate option.
• Nutella or Chocolate Spread: For a creamy chocolate flavor, mix in some Nutella or other chocolate spreads.
• Carob Syrup: Carob is an excellent alternative for those who avoid chocolate altogether. It’s naturally sweet and has a similar flavor.

6. Whipped Cream

Whipped cream is the finishing touch, but it can be replaced or omitted if needed:

• Dairy-Free Versions: Brands like Reddi-Wip offer almond or coconut milk-based whipped cream for vegan or lactose-free diets.
• Cool Whip or Whipped Topping: Use frozen whipped topping alternatives for a similar fluffy texture, as they are available in most stores.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: Make your own whipped cream by beating heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy.

7. Andes Mint Candies

These iconic mint chocolates add texture and flavor to the shake. If you don’t have Andes Mints available, try one of these substitutes:

• Peppermint Patties: Chop up small pieces of York Peppermint Patties for a similar minty chocolate addition.
• Chocolate Chips: Mini chocolate chips (or mint chocolate chips) work perfectly for texture and flavor without the mint chocolate candies.
• Candy Canes or Peppermint Candies: Crushed candy canes or hard peppermint candies add a festive seasonal twist and mint flavor.
• Dark Chocolate Shavings: Shave or grate dark chocolate for a smoother, more elegant texture.

Final Thoughts

This Arby’s Mint Shake recipe is perfect for celebrating the holiday season, cooling down on a warm day, or simply treating yourself to the delightful mint-chocolate combo anytime. 

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