Awkward First Date Milkshake
This milkshake captures the sweet, albeit occasionally clunky, optimism of a fledgling connection, much like the first dates observed from the notorious Taildaters van. It’s a classic blend of strawberry and vanilla, designed for sharing, but perfectly delicious if you decide to finish it all yourself.
Directions
- 1
Place the slightly softened vanilla bean ice cream, quartered strawberries, whole milk, strawberry syrup, granulated sugar (if using), vanilla extract, and sea salt into a high-speed blender.
- 2
Secure the lid and begin blending on a low speed, gradually increasing to medium, for about 15 seconds, until the ingredients start to combine.
- 3
Continue blending for another 30-45 seconds, stopping and scraping down the sides with a rubber spatula as needed, until the mixture is thick, creamy, and uniform with no large chunks of strawberry remaining.
- 4
Resist the urge to over-blend, as this can melt the ice cream too quickly, compromising the milkshake's classic thick texture.
- 5
Taste the milkshake and add an additional 1 teaspoon of sugar if you prefer a sweeter profile, then blend for another 5 seconds to incorporate.
- 6
Pour the milkshake evenly into two tall, chilled glasses.
- 7
Crown each milkshake generously with a swirl of whipped cream.
- 8
Garnish each glass with a fresh strawberry slice perched on the rim and a classic maraschino cherry on top of the whipped cream, signaling a perfectly sweet, slightly retro indulgence.