We’ve all been there – craving something sweet and indulgent that hits just the right spot. This Nutella shake recipe delivers pure bliss in a glass, transforming the beloved hazelnut spread into a creamy, dreamy beverage that’ll make your taste buds dance. It’s the perfect treat when you need a quick pick-me-up or want to impress guests with minimal effort.
What makes this shake absolutely irresistible is how it balances rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor with velvety smoothness. We’re talking about a dessert drink that tastes like it came from an upscale café but requires just five minutes of your time. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or serving it at your next gathering, this shake never fails to wow.
The best part? You probably already have most ingredients in your kitchen right now. Let’s jump into creating this decadent masterpiece that’ll become your new go-to comfort drink.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected ingredients that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture and rich chocolate hazelnut taste.
Base Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Nutella spread (room temperature for easier blending)
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream (premium quality recommended)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup ice cubes
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup (for extra chocolate intensity)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for richer texture)
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder (for mocha variation)
- 1/2 banana (for natural sweetness and creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons malted milk powder (for nostalgic flavor)
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (for nutty complexity)
Garnish Options
- Whipped cream rosettes
- Crushed hazelnuts or almonds
- Chocolate shavings or chips
- Nutella drizzle on glass rim
- Mini chocolate cookies
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Caramel sauce swirls
Equipment Needed
Making our Nutella shake requires minimal kitchen equipment that most home cooks already have on hand. We need these essential tools to create the perfect creamy texture and smooth consistency.
A blender serves as our primary tool for combining all ingredients into a smooth and frothy shake. The blender’s powerful blades ensure the Nutella spreads evenly throughout the mixture while creating that signature creamy texture we want. For those without a blender, a hand mixer works as an alternative option, though the texture may be slightly less smooth.
An ice cream scoop makes portioning the vanilla ice cream quick and easy. This tool helps us measure the ice cream accurately while preventing our hands from getting messy during preparation.
Measuring cups and spoons ensure we get the proportions exactly right. We need these to measure the milk, Nutella, and any optional ingredients precisely. Accurate measurements make the difference between a perfect shake and one that’s too thick or too thin.
A tall glass or mug provides the ideal serving vessel for our finished shake. The tall shape showcases the shake’s appealing color and texture while providing enough room for optional whipped cream garnish and other toppings.
These basic kitchen tools work together to transform simple ingredients into an impressive treat that rivals any restaurant milkshake. Most households already own these items, making this recipe accessible to everyone who wants to create a delicious Nutella shake at home.
Instructions
Creating our perfect Nutella shake requires just three simple steps that take only five minutes from start to finish. We’ll walk you through each phase to ensure your shake achieves that ideal creamy texture and rich chocolate hazelnut flavor.
Prep the Ingredients
We start by gathering all our ingredients to streamline the blending process. Measure out 1/2 to 1 cup of whole milk depending on your desired consistency and serving size. Scoop 1.5 cups of vanilla ice cream into a bowl for easy access. Add 3 to 6 tablespoons of Nutella based on how intense you want the chocolate hazelnut flavor.
For an extra frothy texture we recommend adding a handful of ice cubes to the mix. Optional toppings like whipped cream and chopped hazelnuts should be set aside for the final presentation. Some recipes suggest spreading Nutella around the rim of your serving glasses at this stage for enhanced flavor and visual appeal.
Blend the Shake
We begin by adding the milk and vanilla ice cream to our blender jar. Next we add the measured Nutella and ice cubes if using them for extra frothiness. Blend the mixture for 20 to 30 seconds for basic smoothness or up to 3 to 4 minutes for an ultra smooth consistency.
The key is achieving a well combined frothy mixture that showcases the rich Nutella flavor. For a decorative presentation we can line our serving glasses with additional Nutella or chopped hazelnuts before pouring the finished shake.
Adjust Consistency and Taste
We fine tune our shake by adjusting the consistency to our preference. For a thicker shake we use less milk or add more ice cream to the blender. A thinner consistency requires adding a bit more milk gradually until we reach the desired texture.
Taste testing allows us to perfect the sweetness level by adding more Nutella or sugar if needed. We complete our creation by topping with whipped cream and optional hazelnuts or a decorative Nutella drizzle for both presentation and extra flavor enhancement.
Serving Suggestions
We believe presentation and pairing can transform our simple Nutella shake into an extraordinary experience. These thoughtful touches will elevate your shake from delicious to absolutely irresistible.
Garnishing Your Nutella Shake
Creating a stunning presentation starts with the glass itself. We recommend spreading Nutella on a small plate and dipping the rim of your glass into it for a chocolatey border that adds both visual appeal and extra flavor with every sip.
Whipped cream serves as the perfect canvas for additional toppings. We love adding a generous dollop on top followed by a luxurious drizzle of Nutella that creates beautiful swirls throughout the cream. Cocoa powder or chocolate sprinkles provide an elegant finishing touch that catches the light beautifully.
Chopped hazelnuts offer the perfect textural contrast to our smooth shake. We sprinkle them generously over the whipped cream to add a satisfying crunch that complements the nutty flavor profile. Fresh chocolate shavings or mini cookies can also serve as delightful garnishes that enhance both taste and visual impact.
Perfect Pairings
Our Nutella shake pairs wonderfully with classic cookies and pastries. We particularly enjoy serving it alongside Oreos or chocolate chip cookies that guests can dip directly into their shakes. Buttery croissants create an indulgent combination that works perfectly for weekend brunches or afternoon treats.
Fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate hazelnut flavors. We often add sliced strawberries or bananas directly to the shake or serve them on the side for guests to enjoy between sips. The natural sweetness and acidity of berries particularly complement the creamy richness of our Nutella creation.
For special occasions we serve our shakes with warm pastries like churros or donuts. The temperature contrast between the cold shake and warm baked goods creates a memorable dessert experience that guests always remember.
Variations
Our basic Nutella shake serves as the perfect foundation for countless delicious variations. We’ve curated these popular twists to help you customize your shake experience based on your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Banana Nutella Shake
Transform your shake into a tropical delight by adding one ripe banana to the mix. We recommend using 2-3 tablespoons of Nutella for this variation to maintain the perfect balance between chocolate hazelnut and banana flavors. Blend the banana with your milk and a few drops of vanilla extract until completely smooth. Add ice cubes gradually while blending to achieve that thick creamy consistency we all crave. The natural sweetness from the banana reduces the need for additional sweeteners while creating a remarkably smooth texture.
Chocolate Nutella Shake
Double down on chocolate intensity by swapping vanilla ice cream for 1 1/2 cups of rich chocolate ice cream. This variation creates an incredibly decadent treat that satisfies even the most serious chocolate cravings. We suggest using the same amount of Nutella as our original recipe to maintain that distinctive hazelnut flavor profile. The combination produces a deeply chocolatey shake with complex flavor notes that chocolate lovers will absolutely adore. Garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.
Protein-Packed Nutella Shake
Boost your shake’s nutritional value without sacrificing taste by incorporating one scoop of vanilla protein powder. We reduce the ice cream to 1/2 cup and use either regular milk or almond milk based on your dietary preferences. This variation works perfectly as a post-workout treat or nutritious breakfast option. Blend the protein powder thoroughly to avoid any chalky texture while maintaining that signature Nutella smoothness. The protein addition creates a more filling shake that provides sustained energy throughout your day.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead transforms our Nutella shake preparation into a seamless experience that saves precious time when cravings strike. We can streamline the entire process by preparing certain components in advance without compromising the shake’s rich texture or bold flavor.
Glass Preparation
Setting up our serving glasses beforehand creates an impressive presentation that’s ready to go. We start by coating the rim of each glass with Nutella using a butter knife or small spatula to create an even layer. Rolling the Nutella-coated rim in chopped hazelnuts or chocolate sprinkles adds an extra touch of elegance. These prepared glasses can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving.
Base Storage
Our Nutella shake base maintains its quality when stored properly in the refrigerator. We can blend all ingredients except garnishes and store the mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 hours before serving. The shake will naturally separate during storage, so a quick 10-second blend brings it back to perfect consistency.
Ingredient Organization
Measuring out ingredients ahead of time speeds up the blending process significantly. We arrange the Nutella, vanilla ice cream scoops, and milk in the refrigerator so everything stays at optimal temperature. Pre-scooping ice cream onto a parchment-lined plate and freezing for 15 minutes prevents melting during preparation.
Make-Ahead Storage Guidelines
| Component | Storage Method | Time Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepared glasses | Room temperature | 2 hours | Cover with plastic wrap if humid |
| Shake base | Refrigerator, airtight container | 2 hours | Re-blend before serving |
| Pre-scooped ice cream | Freezer on parchment | 30 minutes | Prevents melting during prep |
| Measured ingredients | Refrigerator | 4 hours | Keep separate until blending |
Quick Assembly Tips
Keeping our blender jar chilled in the freezer for 10 minutes before use helps maintain the shake’s thick consistency. We also prepare whipped cream and other toppings in advance, storing them in piping bags or small bowls in the refrigerator. This organization allows us to assemble multiple shakes quickly when entertaining guests or satisfying multiple family members at once.
Storage Instructions
We strongly recommend enjoying your Nutella shake immediately after preparation for the best texture and flavor experience. Milkshakes made with ice cream lose their creamy consistency quickly as the ice cream melts and separates from the other ingredients.
Short-Term Refrigeration
When you need to store leftover shake, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. Proper sealing prevents the shake from absorbing refrigerator odors while chilling slows down the melting process. The texture will change significantly during storage, becoming less creamy and more liquid as time passes.
Freezing for Extended Storage
For longer preservation, we suggest freezing your Nutella shake in a sealed container. This method maintains the ingredients better than refrigeration and prevents complete texture breakdown. Before serving the frozen shake, allow it to soften at room temperature for several minutes.
Restoration Techniques
To restore the milkshake consistency after storage, blend the thawed shake with a small amount of fresh milk. Start with one to two tablespoons of milk and blend until you achieve your desired texture. Adding a fresh scoop of vanilla ice cream during reblending can also help restore the original creamy consistency.
Storage Duration Guidelines
| Storage Method | Duration | Quality Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 1-2 hours | Best texture maintained |
| Refrigerated | Up to 24 hours | Important texture change |
| Frozen | Up to 1 month | Requires restoration before serving |
The key to successful storage lies in using proper airtight containers and understanding that some texture compromise is inevitable with any storage method.
Troubleshooting Tips
Creating the perfect Nutella shake becomes effortless once we address common issues that can arise during preparation. We’ve identified the most frequent problems and their answers to ensure consistent results every time.
Runny Consistency Issues often occur when we use too much milk or ice cream that isn’t cold enough. The shake loses its thick creamy texture and becomes watery instead of indulgent. We recommend reducing the milk quantity by half and ensuring our vanilla ice cream remains solid before blending. Cold ingredients maintain the shake’s luxurious mouthfeel that makes this treat so satisfying.
Blending Difficulties typically happen when our mixture becomes too thick for the blender blades to process effectively. The motor struggles and ingredients remain chunky rather than smooth. Adding small amounts of milk gradually helps the blender incorporate all components properly. We suggest starting with less liquid and increasing incrementally until the blades move freely.
Watered Down Flavor results from using ice cubes which dilute the rich Nutella taste as they melt. The chocolate hazelnut essence becomes weak and disappointing. We avoid ice completely and rely on frozen ice cream and chilled milk to achieve the proper temperature. This approach preserves the intense flavor profile that makes our shake irresistible.
Inadequate Sweetness can occur when using different brands of chocolate hazelnut spread with varying sugar content. Some alternatives contain less sweetness than traditional Nutella. We taste test our mixture before serving and adjust by adding extra spread or a tablespoon of chocolate syrup. Personal preference varies so we encourage customizing sweetness levels accordingly.
Separation Problems manifest when ingredients don’t emulsify properly and the shake develops layers. This happens when we blend for insufficient time or use ingredients at different temperatures. Blending for a full 3 to 4 minutes ensures complete incorporation while matching ingredient temperatures prevents separation during serving.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how to create the ultimate Nutella shake that’ll become your new favorite indulgence. With just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools you can whip up this creamy chocolate-hazelnut masterpiece in minutes.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with our suggested variations there’s a perfect combination for every taste preference. The make-ahead tips and troubleshooting guide ensure you’ll achieve consistent results every time.
Now it’s time to grab your blender and treat yourself to this irresistible shake. We guarantee it’ll satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. Happy blending!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make a Nutella shake?
A Nutella shake takes just 5 minutes to make from start to finish. The process involves three simple steps: prepping ingredients (measuring milk, scooping ice cream, and adding Nutella), blending everything together until smooth, and adjusting consistency to taste. This makes it perfect for quick indulgence or last-minute entertaining.
What are the basic ingredients needed for a Nutella shake?
The essential ingredients include Nutella spread, vanilla ice cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and ice cubes. Optional add-ins like chocolate syrup, heavy cream, instant coffee powder, banana, malted milk powder, and peanut butter can enhance flavor. Most ingredients are typically found in your kitchen pantry.
What kitchen equipment do I need to make a Nutella shake?
You’ll need a blender (essential for smooth consistency), measuring cups and spoons for accurate proportions, an ice cream scoop for easy portioning, and a tall glass for serving. A hand mixer can substitute for a blender if needed. These basic tools make the recipe accessible to anyone.
Can I make Nutella shake variations?
Yes! Popular variations include Banana Nutella Shake (adding ripe banana), Chocolate Nutella Shake (using chocolate ice cream), and Protein-Packed Nutella Shake (adding vanilla protein powder). Each variation maintains the signature Nutella flavor while offering unique taste profiles and nutritional benefits for different preferences.
How should I store leftover Nutella shake?
Consume immediately for best texture and flavor. If storing leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 hours, though texture will change significantly. For longer storage, freeze the shake and restore consistency by blending with fresh milk or ice cream after thawing.
What are some good garnish options for Nutella shakes?
Popular garnishes include whipped cream, crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, Nutella drizzle, mini cookies, toasted coconut flakes, and caramel sauce. For presentation, rim glasses with Nutella and roll in chopped hazelnuts or chocolate sprinkles. These toppings enhance both visual appeal and taste experience.
How do I fix a runny Nutella shake?
Reduce the milk quantity or add more ice cream to thicken consistency. Use frozen ice cream instead of ice cubes to prevent dilution. If the shake is still too thin, add more Nutella or blend in additional frozen ingredients. Avoid over-blending, which can make the shake watery.
Can I prepare Nutella shake ingredients ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare serving glasses by coating rims with Nutella and toppings in advance. Pre-scoop ice cream and freeze to prevent melting. The shake base can be blended and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. Chill your blender jar beforehand for optimal results.
