Ingredients
- 1 cup cold milk (whole milk for a creamier texture, or almond milk for a lighter option)
- 2 large scoops of vanilla ice cream (approximately 1 cup)
- 6 to 8 ice cubes
- 3 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), plus more for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup (optional but enhances flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
For the topping
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- Crushed cookies for sprinkling
- 1 whole cookie for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the blender: Add the milk, vanilla ice cream, ice cubes, chocolate syrup, vanilla extract, sugar, and cookies into a high-speed blender.
- Blend until smooth: Start on a low speed to crush the cookies and ice, then blend on high until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and slightly frothy. The texture should be thick enough to hold the whipped cream but still drinkable through a straw.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the frappuccino and adjust the sweetness or texture as desired. Add more milk if you prefer a thinner consistency or more ice cream for extra creaminess.
- Serve immediately: Pour the mixture into a tall chilled glass or plastic cup. Use a spoon to scoop out any cookie bits that might have settled at the bottom of the blender.
- Add toppings: Generously top with whipped cream, sprinkle with crushed cookies, and garnish with a whole cookie on the side or top for presentation.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality vanilla ice cream—it makes a noticeable difference in texture and flavor.
- Blend in short bursts if you like a chunkier texture with small cookie pieces instead of a perfectly smooth frappuccino.
- Freeze your glass for 10 minutes before serving to keep the drink extra cold for longer.
- If you enjoy a coffee kick, add ½ cup of chilled espresso or 1 teaspoon of instant coffee dissolved in 2 tablespoons of warm water before blending.
- For a richer flavor, drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring the frappuccino mixture.
Variations
- Mocha Cookies & Cream Frappuccino: Add a small shot of espresso or 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder for a bolder, coffee-infused flavor.
- Mint Cookies & Cream Frappuccino: Replace vanilla extract with a few drops of mint extract and use mint chocolate cookies.
- Vegan Version: Use non-dairy ice cream and plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, and top with vegan whipped cream.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of creamy peanut butter before blending for a nutty and rich variation.
Storage Options
The Cookies & Cream Frappuccino is best enjoyed immediately after blending, as the ice cream and crushed cookies tend to separate if left sitting for too long. However, if you need to prepare it in advance, you can store it in the freezer for up to 1 hour and re-blend for 10 to 15 seconds before serving. Avoid refrigerating it for long periods as it may lose its creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this frappuccino without ice cream?
Yes. You can replace the ice cream with ½ cup of heavy cream or ½ cup of cold milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of condensed milk. The texture won’t be as thick, but it will still be creamy and delicious.
Can I use other cookie types?
Absolutely. You can experiment with chocolate chip cookies, mint cookies, or even peanut butter sandwich cookies for different flavor variations. Just make sure to adjust the sugar depending on how sweet the cookies are.
How do I make it thicker?
For a thicker frappuccino, add more ice cream or reduce the amount of milk. You can also chill the drink in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving to firm it up slightly.
Can I make this recipe caffeine-free?
Yes. Simply skip the coffee addition entirely and use only milk and ice cream as your base. It’s a perfect caffeine-free treat for kids or anyone avoiding coffee.
Conclusion
This homemade Cookies & Cream Frappuccino is a creamy, dreamy treat that’s as indulgent as it is easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of blending, you can enjoy a café-quality drink in the comfort of your home. The combination of cookies, milk, and ice cream creates a smooth, satisfying texture that’s both refreshing and rich. Whether you enjoy it as an afternoon dessert or a weekend indulgence, this recipe is bound to become one of your all-time favorites.