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This homemade Starbucks Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino brings a taste of summer right to your kitchen with creamy vanilla ice cream, sweet strawberry puree, and a cloud of whipped cream on top. It is the perfect way to cool down and treat yourself without the coffee shop price.
The first time I made this at home my family finished every last drop even before the whipped cream started to melt It is always a hit during our weekend treat nights
Ingredients
- Milk: gives the base creaminess and you can use any type you prefer Whole milk creates the richest texture
- Strawberry puree: packs in real fruit flavor and vibrant color For best results use ripe in season strawberries for freshness
- Vanilla ice cream: creates that iconic creamy frappuccino body Choose a good quality one with real vanilla beans if possible
- Ice cubes: chill and thicken the drink to that frosty consistency
- Sugar: bumps up the sweetness and balances the tang of the berries Taste before adding the full amount to adjust to your liking
- Vanilla extract: enhances that dessert flavor Make sure it is pure vanilla not artificial
- Whipped cream for topping: makes every sip sweeter Use real cream for best texture
- Fresh strawberries sliced: add juicy bursts of flavor and a pretty finish
- Shortbread cookies crumbled evently: if you want that classic shortcake finish Look for real butter cookies for melt in your mouth crumbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Puree:
- Start by blending about half a cup of hulled strawberries in a blender until completely smooth For an extra silky frappuccino push the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove all seeds
- Blend the Base:
- Add your milk strawberry puree vanilla ice cream ice cubes sugar and vanilla extract to a blender Blend on high speed for about thirty to forty five seconds until everything is fully smooth and the ice is crushed completely
- Adjust the Texture:
- Check the consistency If the mixture is too thick add a small splash of milk If it seems too thin add another few ice cubes or a scoop of ice cream and blend again until you reach that perfect frappuccino thickness
- Assemble the Drink:
- Pour your blended mixture into a tall glass Fill it almost all the way to the top so you get a full and satisfying treat
- Add the Toppings:
- Swirl a big generous mound of whipped cream on top Place your sliced strawberries artfully over the cream For that signature touch lightly sprinkle crumbled shortbread cookies over everything
- Serve Immediately:
- Stick in a straw and enjoy right away while the drink is icy and refreshing The texture is best before the ice starts melting
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Fresh strawberries are my absolute favorite part They remind me of visiting pick your own farms with my little cousins and bringing home baskets just for making summer treats Strawberries always mean sweet memories in my family
Storage Tips
This frappuccino is best served immediately while it is icy and smooth If you have leftovers you can pour them into popsicle molds and freeze for a cool treat another day Homemade strawberry puree can be stored covered in the fridge for up to two days
Ingredient Substitutions
Almond oat or soy milk work well for dairy free options If you do not have vanilla ice cream frozen yogurt can work in a pinch Honey or agave can replace sugar for a more natural sweetness Use gluten free shortbread if needed
Serving Suggestions
Serve this frappuccino in a clear glass for that coffee shop look Top with colorful paper straws or add extra fresh strawberries as a snack alongside the drink For parties you can line glasses with a swirl of strawberry sauce before pouring
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A Sweet American Classic
The strawberry shortcake has long been a popular American dessert with versions dating back over a century This frappuccino captures that nostalgic flavor pairing of juicy berries vanilla and buttery cookies but in a frozen drink form It is like sipping on summer in a glass
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree?
Yes, both fresh and frozen strawberries work well for the puree. Thaw frozen berries before blending for a smoother consistency.
- → How do I make the drink dairy-free?
Substitute your preferred plant-based milk and a vegan vanilla ice cream for a creamy, dairy-free option.
- → What toppings go best with this frappuccino?
Classic toppings include whipped cream, sliced fresh strawberries, and crumbled shortbread cookies for extra flavor and crunch.
- → Is this drink suitable for children?
Absolutely, this frappuccino contains no coffee or caffeine and can be adjusted for sweetness to suit kids’ preferences.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness?
Start with a tablespoon of sugar and taste after blending, adding more or less according to your liking.
- → Can I prepare it in advance?
It's best enjoyed freshly blended, as the texture and frosty quality are optimal when served immediately.