McDonald’s is famous for a myriad of menu offerings from the beloved Big Mac and the cinnamon-sweet baked apple pie, all the way to the iconic fries and extra spicy Sprite. And in 2025, by some stroke of magic or luck or constant complaining, we are finally getting the Snack Wrap back at McDonald’s (It’s just the perfect lunch, dinner, and early morning treat!) One McDonald’s item that is worth the wait and is always promised to return each and every winter is its famous Shamrock Shake. The green milkshake with mint and vanilla flavors is delectably topped with whipped cream to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Some people wait all year for it, heading to the drive-thru on the first day it graces the menu. Others avoid it at all costs. But it’s popular enough to make its way back onto the seasonal menu every year. Who needs corned beef anyway? Of course, if you’re looking to craft the limited-time, seasonal shake during any time of the year, it is super possible. Here’s how you can make your own McDonald’s Shamrock Shake at home.
What is a Shamrock Shake?
The Shamrock Shake first debuted on the fast food chain’s menus in 1970, but the name wasn’t nearly as catchy. It was called the St. Patrick’s Day Shake and was only available at select locations until 2012, when it was made available nationwide. It’s been on the menu ever since. One year — 1980 — McDonald’s tested adding a Shamrock Sundae to the menu alongside the shake, but it was discontinued that same year. The recipe is very simple, including vanilla soft serve, mint syrup, and a whipped topping.
Shamrock Shake Copycat Recipe
You can make a single serving of this milkshake in a personal blender or NutriBullet. According to TikTok user @icecreamwithjules, all you need to do is start with three scoops of your preferred vanilla ice cream.
Next, you’ll add a few drops of mint extract into your blender with some green food coloring. Finally, add 1/3 cup of milk to make the concoction drinkable. Add your whipped cream and sup through a straw.
Of course, you can level up your mint flavor by starting with mint chip ice cream in lieu of vanilla. Additionally, you can def make your Shamrock Shake boozy in the privacy of your own home with the addition of a shot (or two) of peppermint schnapps.
When is McDonald’s bring the Shamrock Shake back in 2025?
Every year, McDonald’s rolls out its Shamrock Shakes in late February around President’s Day. This means that the shakes are most likely to return on February 19 or 20. They will be served through St. Patrick’s Day. Stay tuned for more updates on McDonald’s minty green dessert offerings.