Ingredients

  • 1 cup vanilla ice cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
  • 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream (for topping)
  • Optional: 1-2 drops green food coloring (for a vibrant lime color)
  • Ice cubes (about 1/2 cup, for extra chill)

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Zester or fine grater
  • Tall glasses for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: If using fresh key limes, juice them to get 1/4 cup and zest one lime to obtain 1 teaspoon of zest. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling with a rolling pin.
  2. Blend the Shake: In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, whole milk, key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers, lime zest, vanilla extract, and ice cubes. If using food coloring, add 1-2 drops for a light green hue.
  3. Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed for 30-45 seconds or until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the shake is too thick, add a splash more milk; if too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a scoop of ice cream.
  4. Serve: Pour the shake into tall glasses. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with extra graham cracker crumbs for garnish.
  5. Optional Garnish: Add a thin slice of lime or a sprinkle of lime zest on top of the whipped cream for an extra touch.
  6. Enjoy Immediately: Serve with a straw or spoon for the ultimate key lime pie experience in shake form!

Tips

  • For a stronger key lime flavor, increase the key lime juice to 1/3 cup, but balance with an extra tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk to avoid excessive tartness.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk ice cream and coconut milk for the ice cream and milk, respectively.
  • Store any leftover shake in the freezer for up to 1 hour, but stir well before serving as it may separate.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 6g

Servings: 2 shakes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes