Banana Split Shake
A creamy, indulgent banana split shake featuring fresh bananas, cherries, cocoa, and vanilla ice cream, perfect for a refreshing dessert or treat for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a blender, combine milk, coconut cream, sliced banana, cherries, and cocoa.
- Cover and process at high until well blended.
- Add vanilla ice cream and blend at medium speed until smooth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier shake, use full-fat coconut cream instead of light varieties. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon. You can also substitute the banana with frozen banana slices for a thicker texture. Adjust the cocoa depending on your chocolate preference; darker cocoa will yield a more intense taste. For a fun twist, try adding crushed graham crackers for a crunchy element.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Banana Split Shake in tall glasses topped with whipped cream and a cherry for a classic touch. It pairs beautifully with Southern Fritters for a delightful brunch. For added fun, consider drizzling chocolate syrup or sprinkling crushed nuts on top. This shake is perfect for summer gatherings or as a special dessert treat any time of year.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, note that the shake may separate; simply stir before serving. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it in an ice cube tray, then blend the cubes later for a quick treat. Avoid reheating as it’s best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Split Shake contains roughly 1114 calories, with 33g protein, 249g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (170% of the Daily Value), protein (66% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 695mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dairy-free alternatives for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and use a dairy-free ice cream to make this shake vegan-friendly. Coconut cream is naturally dairy-free, so your base will still be rich and creamy. Just be sure to choose a dairy-free ice cream that you enjoy to maintain the delicious flavor of the shake.
What if I don't have cherries?
If cherries aren't available, feel free to replace them with other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. You can also use frozen mixed berries, which will add a nice flavor and color to the shake. Just blend them in the same way as the cherries, and enjoy a different yet equally delicious version of the shake.
How can I make this shake less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness of your shake, you can cut back on the cream of coconut and use unsweetened almond milk instead of regular milk. Additionally, you can omit the cocoa or use a dark cocoa powder, which tends to be less sweet. Lastly, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste without making the shake too sugary.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).