Cherry Cheesecake Milkshake Recipe – Creamy, Fruity, and Indulgent
1. Introduction
If you love the creamy, tangy richness of cheesecake and the fruity sweetness of cherries, imagine enjoying both in one sip. That’s exactly what this Cherry Cheesecake Milkshake delivers—thick, luscious, and bursting with flavor.
This milkshake combines vanilla ice cream, cheesecake chunks, and cherry pie filling for a dreamy dessert drink that’s perfect for summer or anytime you want a treat that feels special. The graham cracker crumb topping brings that signature cheesecake crunch, while the whipped cream and cherry drizzle make it feel straight out of a diner menu.
In this post, I’ll show you how to make it step by step, offer variations, serving suggestions, and even give you nutrition info so you know exactly what you’re sipping on.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
- Vanilla Ice Cream (3 cups): Creamy base of the milkshake.
- Cheesecake (1 ½ cups, cubed): Adds authentic cheesecake flavor. You can use leftover baked cheesecake or no-bake.
- Cherry Pie Filling (1 cup): Provides sweetness, fruity flavor, and a gorgeous swirl.
- Whole Milk (1 cup): Blends everything into a smooth drinkable consistency.
- Graham Crackers (4, crushed): Used for blending and as a topping to mimic the crust.
- Whipped Cream: For a rich, fluffy topping.
- Fresh Cherries (for garnish): Brightens the presentation and adds freshness.
- Cherry Syrup (optional): For drizzling and extra flavor.
Substitutions:
- Swap vanilla ice cream for cherry ice cream for extra fruitiness.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of cheesecake for a lighter version.
- Substitute gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-friendly milkshake.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the blender: Add vanilla ice cream, milk, and cubed cheesecake.
- Blend until smooth: Make sure the cheesecake pieces are fully incorporated.
- Add cherry pie filling: Blend lightly so streaks of cherry swirl through the milkshake.
- Incorporate graham crackers: Add half the crumbs to the blender for that crusty flavor.
- Prepare serving glasses: Drizzle cherry syrup inside the glass for presentation.
- Pour and top: Fill the glass, top with whipped cream, extra cherry pie filling, graham cracker crumbs, and fresh cherries.
- Serve immediately: With a wide straw and a spoon for those cheesecake chunks.
4. Tips and Variations
- Make it thicker: Reduce milk or add more ice cream.
- Boozy version: Add a splash of cherry liqueur or amaretto.
- Chocolate lovers: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup inside the glass.
- Vegan version: Use dairy-free ice cream, almond milk, and vegan cheesecake.
- Healthier swap: Blend frozen cherries and Greek yogurt instead of cheesecake.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside mini cheesecake bites for a themed dessert.
- Pair with a light summer salad or sandwich for a balanced meal.
- Turn it into a dessert bar item with toppings like chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, or Oreo crumbs.
- Perfect for Valentine’s Day, summer BBQs, or birthday parties.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Fridge: Not recommended as it melts quickly.
- Freezer: Freeze leftovers for up to 2 weeks. Re-blend with a splash of milk before serving.
- Prep ahead: Blend without toppings and freeze in mason jars. Add whipped cream and cherries before serving.
7. Recipe Notes
- Best with New York-style cheesecake for rich flavor.
- Use chilled glasses for a frosty effect.
- Can be made kid-friendly or spiked for adults.
- Crushed graham crackers add the authentic “cheesecake crust” experience.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 590 |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 74g |
| Sugar | 58g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Sodium | 280mg |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
| Calcium | 240mg |
| Iron | 1.8mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Dessert / Beverage
Cuisine: American
Servings: 2 large milkshakes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 ½ cups cheesecake, cubed
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 graham crackers, crushed
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Fresh cherries (for garnish)
- Cherry syrup (optional)
Instructions:
- Blend ice cream, milk, and cheesecake until smooth.
- Add cherry pie filling and pulse for swirls.
- Add crushed graham crackers, blend lightly.
- Pour into glasses drizzled with syrup.
- Top with whipped cream, cherries, and more crumbs.
Notes:
- Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-friendly version.
- Swap vanilla ice cream for cherry ice cream for stronger flavor.
Nutrition: See table above.
🏷️ Diet Tags: Vegetarian, Indulgent Dessert, Kid-Friendly
🌿 Health Benefits: Provides calcium for bone health, protein from dairy, and antioxidants from cherries.
10. FAQs
1. Can I make this without cheesecake?
Yes, use cream cheese blended with sugar and vanilla as a substitute.
2. Do I need cherry pie filling?
No, you can use fresh or frozen cherries blended with sugar and lemon juice.
3. Can I make it ahead?
Yes, blend and freeze in jars. Re-blend before serving.
4. Is this gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can use gluten-free graham crackers.
5. Can I add chocolate?
Absolutely! Chocolate syrup or chocolate chips pair wonderfully with cherries.
11. Final Thoughts
This Cherry Cheesecake Milkshake is the ultimate blend of creamy, fruity, and crunchy. It’s rich enough to replace dessert and fun enough to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re indulging solo or serving at a party, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles.
Give it a try, and let me know in the comments—did you go heavy on the cheesecake chunks, or keep it extra cherry-filled? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.