Vanilla Bean Milkshake Frappé

Name: Vanilla Bean Milkshake Frappé
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups vanilla ice cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped; 2 tablespoons sugar (optional); 1/2 cup crushed ice; Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Treats

I absolutely love this Vanilla Bean Milkshake Frappé! It’s incredibly creamy and packed with flavor, making it the perfect treat for a hot day. The rich vanilla bean flavor combined with crushed ice creates a luscious drink that is both refreshing and indulgent. Every sip is like a little taste of heaven. It's also super easy to whip up at home, so I can enjoy this delightful dessert anytime I want. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be making this milkshake frappé over and over again!

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:29:36.259Z

When I first decided to make a Vanilla Bean Milkshake Frappé, I wanted to capture the essence of a perfect summer treat. I experimented with different ratios of ice cream and milk until I found the right balance that gives it that perfect creamy texture without being too thick to sip through a straw. The addition of vanilla bean gives it an authentic taste that's hard to beat.

What really makes this frappé stand out is the use of real vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract. It adds tiny flecks of flavor that enhance the overall taste and appearance, making it a delightful indulgence. Trust me, you’ll appreciate that elevated touch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that's irresistibly smooth
Authentic vanilla flavor from real vanilla beans
Quick and easy to prepare at home
Perfectly cooling and refreshing for hot days

The Role of Real Vanilla Beans

Using real vanilla beans in this Vanilla Bean Milkshake Frappé elevates the flavor to a whole new level. The tiny black specks you see in the blended drink are the result of freshly scraped vanilla beans, which offer an authentic and aromatic profile that extracts a depth of flavor you simply can't achieve with vanilla extract alone. This small detail transforms your milkshake from ordinary to extraordinary.

When selecting vanilla beans, look for ones that are plump and moist, which indicates freshness. A good vanilla bean will have a strong, sweet aroma. If you're feeling adventurous, consider using different varieties, like Tahitian or Madagascar beans, as they can impart unique flavor profiles that personalize your frappé to your taste.

Ice Cream Choices Make a Difference

The type of vanilla ice cream you choose significantly impacts the final taste and texture of your frappé. For the richest flavor, opt for high-quality ice cream with a high butterfat content. Premium brands tend not to include air (aeration), resulting in a denser, creamier consistency that holds up better in a milkshake.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using frozen yogurt or even a vanilla-flavored plant-based ice cream. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may lead to a slightly different texture and taste. Adjust the amount of crushed ice accordingly, as some alternatives might incorporate more water and require less ice for the right consistency.

Making It Your Own

This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor the frappé to your liking. For a chocolate twist, add a tablespoon or two of chocolate syrup or swap out a portion of the ice cream for chocolate ice cream. If you're a fan of coffee, a shot of espresso can give your frappé an enjoyable kick and transform it into a delightful café-style drink.

To enhance the nutrition factor, consider adding a scoop of protein powder or blending in some fresh fruit, such as strawberries or bananas. Just remember to adjust the milk if you add more solids to maintain the desired creamy texture. No matter how you customize it, the essential creamy base and rich vanilla flavor will always shine through!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Vanilla Bean Milkshake Frappé:

Ingredients

2 cups vanilla ice cream
1 cup whole milk
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
1/2 cup crushed ice
Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to blend!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious Vanilla Bean Milkshake Frappé:

Blend Ingredients

In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, whole milk, scraped vanilla bean, crushed ice, and sugar if desired. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Pour the frappé into chilled glasses, and top with whipped cream if you like. Enjoy immediately!

Now, grab a straw and enjoy your homemade treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent treat, try adding a drizzle of chocolate syrup before pouring in the frappé. It adds a lovely contrast of flavors!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store your frappé in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two days. However, be prepared for a change in texture; freezing may cause it to become icy. To soften, leave it at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving. Avoid refreezing after thawing, as it can affect the creaminess and flavor.

For those who love to meal prep, consider making the base of the frappé in advance. Blend the ice cream, milk, and vanilla bean mixture without the ice, and store this mixture in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply blend it with crushed ice for an instant treat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Vanilla Bean Milkshake Frappé in chilled glasses to keep the drink cool longer. For an added touch, rim the glasses with crushed graham crackers or chocolate syrup for a dessert-like experience. You can get creative with garnishes, too; crushed toppings like Oreos, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of caramel will make your frappé visually stunning and even more delicious.

Pair your milkshake frappé with homemade cookies or brownies for a delightful dessert experience. It also serves as an excellent companion for summer barbecues or backyard parties, bringing a touch of indulgence amidst the casual atmosphere.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your frappé is too thin, it might be due to the ratio of milk to ice cream. Start by reducing the milk by a quarter and increase ice if necessary. Alternatively, use a thicker ice cream or reduce the amount of liquid you add to achieve your ideal consistency.

On the flip side, if your frappé is too thick to blend, gradually add more milk until the blender runs smoothly. Always start blending on a low setting and increase gradually to avoid splashes and ensure thorough mixing. This will help you achieve that velvety-smooth consistency you're looking for.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, but it may slightly change the creaminess of the frappé.

→ How long can I keep leftovers?

It's best to consume the frappé immediately, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a day.

→ Can I make this frappé without ice cream?

Yes, you can use frozen yogurt or a banana for a lighter alternative, but the texture will vary.

→ Is it possible to make this without a blender?

While a blender is recommended for the best texture, you can use a whisk and strong elbow grease, though it may take longer!