Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this milkshake captures all the nostalgic flavors of a banana split—banana, strawberry, pineapple, chocolate—without the effort of scooping ice cream and arranging layers. It merges everything in one delicious drink that’s ready in minutes
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Vanilla ice cream (about 4 large scoops)
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1 ripe banana
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½ cup frozen strawberries (or strawberry jam)
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½ cup crushed pineapple, including juice
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¼ cup chocolate syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
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½ cup milk (adjust for thickness)
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Whipped cream, for topping
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Maraschino cherry(ies) or fresh strawberry, for garnish
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Chopped peanuts or nuts (optional)
Directions
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In a blender, I combine vanilla ice cream, banana, strawberries (or jam), crushed pineapple with juice, chocolate syrup, and milk.
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I blend on high until everything is smooth and thick—the consistency should feel lush but drinkable
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I drizzle extra chocolate syrup inside the glasses before pouring in the shake for a decorative swirl.
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Once poured, I top each shake with whipped cream, a cherry or strawberry, and sprinkle with chopped peanuts if I’m using them.
Servings and timing
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Serves: 2 large shakes (or 3–4 smaller ones)
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Prep time: ~5 minutes
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Total time: ~7–10 minutes
Variations
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Use jam instead of fresh fruit: Strawberry jam blends beautifully and deepens the flavor .
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Swap pineapple: If fresh pineapple is on hand, I use that instead.
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Switch ice cream flavors: Chocolate ice cream adds richness; strawberry ice cream makes it extra fruity
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Extra flavors: I sometimes add a splash of cream or vanilla extract for extra depth.
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Toppings twist: Toasted coconut or crushed nuts give it a fun crunch.
Storage/Reheating
This drink is best enjoyed immediately—milkshakes don’t refrigerate well since they melt and separate. If it sits for a few minutes, I just give it a quick stir before sipping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen banana instead of fresh?
Yes—I use frozen banana chunks to make it extra thick and creamy—no ice needed
Can I make a non-dairy version?
Definitely! I swap dairy ice cream for non-dairy vanilla ice cream and use almond or oat milk. I skip whipped cream or use coconut whipped cream as a topping.
What if I don’t have pineapple juice?
I use plain crushed pineapple with its own juice, or substitute pineapple jam or puree.
Can I make this boozy?
Sure—I’ve added a splash of rum or amaretto to adult versions; it definitely feels more grown-up then.
How do I keep the chocolate swirl from running?
I drizzle chilled chocolate syrup inside the glass and place the glass in the fridge for a minute before filling—that keeps the swirl intact.
Conclusion
This Banana Split Milkshake is a fun, easy way to enjoy all the flavors of a beloved classic in drink form. It’s creamy, fruity, and perfect for a hot day, or just when I’m craving something sweet and nostalgic. Whether I’m treating myself or serving it up company-style, it’s a simple yet satisfying indulgence.
